Homemade dressings and vinaigrettes are quick and easy to make and can really give your salads a burst of flavor and benefits. In addition, when you whip up your own, you know exactly what’s in it and can rest easy knowing yours doesn’t contain any questionable ingredients or excess fat, sugar, or sodium. The best part? You can kick it up a notch or two by adding a drop or two of your favorite essential oils from Young Living’s Vitality line. You’ll not only boost the flavor but you get all the benefits the essential oil has to offer too. It’s a win-win all around.
Below are a few of my favorites. Have fun experimenting and try coming up with your own versions. Bon appetite!
Dijon Garlic Vinaigrette
2 minced garlic cloves
2 tablespoons Dijon style mustard
1/2 tsp sea salt
1/4 cup raw red wine vinegar
1 cup extra-virgin olive oil (or 1/2 c olive oil, 1/2 flax oil)
1 drop Parsley Vitality essential oil
Store in a glass jar with a tight lid and place in the refrigerator up to 2 weeks.
Lemon Vinaigrette
6 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice (juice of 1 lemon)
1/2 teaspoon Dijon style mustard
1/8 teaspoon pink Himalayan salt
1-2 drops Lemon Vitality essential oil
Place ingredients in a glass bowl and whisk together until well combined.
Store in a glass jar with a tight lid and place in the refrigerator up to 1 week.
Cilantro Lime Dressing
1/2 cup cilantro leaves and stems, packed
1 minced garlic clove
1 teaspoon honey
1 tablespoon fresh lime juice and/or 1 drop Lime Vitality essential oil
1/4 teaspoon and/or 1 drop Cumin Vitality essential oil
3/4 teaspoon raw apple cider vinegar
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
Place ingredients in a glass bowl and whisk together until well combined.
Store in a glass jar with a tight lid and place in the refrigerator up to 1 week.
Raspberry Vinaigrette
1/4 cup raspberry vinegar or white vinegar
1/2 cup fresh or frozen raspberries or strawberries
2 tablespoons honey
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
2/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1-2 drops Basil Vitality essential oil
Place raspberry vinegar, raspberries/strawberries, honey, and basil in a blender; process on low until well blended.
While mixing, add olive oil in a slow steady stream; continue mixing until dressing is emulsified and smooth.
Add 1-2 drops Basil Vitality essential oil, to taste.
Store in a glass jar with a tight lid and place in the refrigerator up to 1 week.