This all-purpose salad dressing recipe is my go-to anytime I make a salad at home. It’s made with healthy ingredients (unlike store-bought salad dressing), is super easy to make, and you can switch it up to match any cuisine with my 5 recipe variations!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s easy to make. This all-purpose salad dressing recipe is as simple as combining a few simple ingredients into a jar, giving it a good mix, and it’s ready to serve!
- This salad dressing is actually healthy for you. Did you know that most store-bought salad dressings use canola, soybean, or vegetable oil as a base? These oils are highly-inflammatory and should be avoided. I use avocado oil or olive oil in my recipe— which are both a great source of vitamins, antioxidants, and healthy fats.
- It’s versatile. What I love about this all-purpose salad dressing is that you can switch it up and try different variations depending on what you’re eating. From Italian to Greek, Asian, Indian and Mexican— I have 5 different variations that you can use to perfectly complement the flavor of any dish.
- You can use it as a marinade! This all-purpose salad dressing recipe makes for a delicious marinade. You can soak your meat in the marinade overnight or even just for an hour or two before cooking to create the most delicious, juicy flavor!
Ingredients
- Avocado Oil- Avocado oil makes the perfect base to this salad dressing due to its neutral flavor. You can also substitute with olive oil which is rich in flavor and just as healthy for you!
- Coconut Aminos- Coconut aminos add the perfect sweet and salty balance to this salad dressing. I don’t recommend substituting with soy sauce or tamari as the flavor will be much more salty and rich– though you could use them if you’re in a pinch!
- Honey- I like to use raw honey for its delicate sweetness and loads of health benefits. You can substitute with maple syrup, which is another great natural sweetener option that is packed with minerals.
- Apple Cider Vinegar- Apple cider vinegar adds the perfect tang to this dressing. If you’re in a pinch, you can substitute with white or red wine vinegar, or even lemon juice!
- Garlic- Minced, fresh garlic adds the most delicious flavor to this all-purpose salad dressing recipe. If you don’t have any on hand, you can substitute with garlic powder.
- Salt & Pepper- Use a mineral-rich sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste to finish off your delicious all-purpose salad dressing.
Salad Dressing Variations
You can add a few extra ingredients to this all-purpose salad dressing to match any dish you’re making.
Greek: Add dried oregano and thyme.
Mexican: Add taco seasoning and lime juice.
Indian: Add curry powder and yogurt.
Asian: Add ginger powder and fish sauce.
Italian: Add dried parsley and basil.
How to Make All-Purpose Salad Dressing
1. In a small bowl or jar, combine all ingredients and whisk together until smooth and well combined.
2. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.
3. Store the salad dressing in a sealed jar or container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
How to Use It As a Marinade
1. Place meat (chicken, beef, pork, etc.) in a resealable bag or shallow dish.
2. Pour the marinade over, ensuring all pieces are coated.
3. Refrigerate and marinate for at least 1 hour, up to 12 hours for deeper flavor.
4. Discard excess marinade before cooking.
5. Cook the meat using your preferred method—grill, bake, or pan-sear until fully cooked.
All-Purpose Salad Dressing (With 5 Variations!)
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup avocado oil or olive oil
- 1/4 cup amino acids
- 2-3 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 3-6 garlic cloves minced
- 2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 lemon freshly squeezed
Greek Variation
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- 1 tbsp dried thyme
Mexican Variation
- 1 tbsp taco seasoning
- 1 lime freshly squeezed
Indian Variation
- 1 tbsp curry powder
- 1/4 cup plain yogurt
Asian Variation
- 1 tsp ginger powder
- 1-2 tsp fish sauce
Italian Variation
- 1 tbsp dried parsley
- 1 tbsp dried basil
Instructions
- In a small bowl or jar, combine all ingredients and whisk together until smooth and well combined.
- Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.
- Store the salad dressing in a sealed jar or container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
To Use as a Marinade
- Place meat (chicken, beef, pork, etc.) in a resealable bag or shallow dish.
- Pour the marinade over, ensuring all pieces are coated.
- Refrigerate and marinate for at least 1 hour, up to 12 hours for deeper flavor.
- Discard excess marinade before cooking.
- Cook the meat using your preferred method—grill, bake, or pan-sear until fully cooked.
Want to Learn How to Make More Healthy Recipes From Scratch?
Once you start swapping store-bought staples for healthier, homemade alternatives– you won’t ever go back! There is nothing better than creating wholesome meals for your family that are nourishing and delicious! Which is why I created a recipe guide full of healthier, from-scratch versions of your favorite kitchen staples that you and your family will love. Grab a copy today, and fill your kitchen with delicious and simple recipes just like this one!
Did you make my all-purpose salad dressing recipe? Let me know in the comments! And to explore the latest recipes on the blog, check out my recent posts: