Zesty Ginger Scallion Dressing

Yield: Approx. 1 cup (16 tablespoons) Prep time: 5 minutes Serving Size: 1 tablespoon

Ingredients

  • ⅔ cup (160 ml) grapeseed oil (or other neutral oil like avocado or light olive oil)
  • ⅓ cup (80 ml) rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon finely minced scallions (green parts mostly)
  • 1 ½ teaspoons finely minced or grated fresh ginger
  • 1 ½ teaspoons toasted sesame oil
  • 1 ½ teaspoons honey (or maple syrup for vegan option)
  • 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon reduced-sodium soy sauce or tamari (optional, for umami)
  • ½ small clove garlic, finely minced or pressed (optional)

Instructions

  1. Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the grapeseed oil, rice vinegar, minced scallions, minced ginger, toasted sesame oil, honey, salt, optional soy sauce/tamari, and optional garlic.
  2. Emulsify: Whisk the ingredients together vigorously until the dressing is well blended and slightly emulsified (thickened). Alternatively, combine all ingredients in a mason jar or other container with a tight-fitting lid. Secure the lid firmly.
  3. Shake Well: Shake the jar vigorously for 30-60 seconds until the ingredients are thoroughly combined and the dressing appears emulsified.
  4. Taste and Adjust: Taste the dressing and adjust seasonings if necessary. Add more salt, honey/sweetener, or vinegar to reach your desired balance of flavors.
  5. Serve or Store: Use the dressing immediately over salads, grilled vegetables, or as a marinade.

Storage:

  • Store leftover dressing in an airtight container or jar in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
  • The oil may solidify or separate when chilled. If this happens, let the dressing sit at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes and shake or whisk vigorously again before serving.

Recipe Notes:

  • Using toasted sesame oil provides the characteristic nutty flavor; regular sesame oil is much milder.
  • Freshly grated ginger offers the best flavor, but ginger paste can be substituted in a pinch.
  • Feel free to adjust the ratio of oil to vinegar based on your preference for acidity.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 1 tablespoon)

(Estimates based on standard nutritional databases using grapeseed oil, honey, and optional soy/garlic. Actual values may vary based on specific brands and precise measurements.)

  • Calories: Approx. 88 kcal
  • Total Fat: Approx. 9.4 g
    • Saturated Fat: Approx. 1 g (Estimate)
  • Total Carbohydrates: Approx. 0.8 g
    • Total Sugars: Approx. 0.5 g (Estimate)
  • Protein: Approx. 0 g
  • Sodium: Approx. 163 mg (Estimate)