Fresh Basil Salad Dressing

Fresh Basil Salad Dressing Recipe - Vegetarian Food from Japan

Region / culture: Japan | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Fresh basil salad dressing is a delicious and versatile dressing that can be used on a variety of salads. Made with fresh basil leaves, garlic, onion, and a few other simple ingredients, this dressing is bursting with flavor and is sure to elevate any salad.

History

The use of fresh basil in salad dressings can be traced back to ancient times when basil was used for its medicinal properties as well as its culinary uses. Basil has long been known for its aromatic and flavorful qualities, making it a popular herb in many cuisines around the world.

Ingredients

0.25 cup of rice vinegar
1 tbsp of honey
2 tsp of white miso
0.5 tsp of dry mustard
0.5 tsp of dried oregano
0.25 tsp of salt
0.25 cup of safflower or other mild vegetable oil
0.25 cup of coarsely chopped onion
1 medium clove of garlic, minced
1.5 cups of fresh basil leaves
0.25 cup of silken tofu

How to prepare

In a blender or food processor, combine the onion and garlic and pulse on and off until finely chopped.
Add the remaining ingredients along with 0.25 cup of water; blend until smooth.
If the mixture is thick, add more water until it reaches the desired consistency.

Variations

Add a squeeze of lemon juice for a citrusy twist.
Substitute the white miso with soy sauce for a different flavor profile.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use fresh basil leaves for the best flavor in this dressing.

- Adjust the amount of water in the dressing to achieve your desired consistency.

- Store any leftover dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Serving Suggestions

This fresh basil salad dressing is perfect for drizzling over a mixed green salad, pasta salad, or grilled vegetables.

Cooking Techniques

This fresh basil salad dressing is best made in a blender or food processor to ensure a smooth and creamy consistency.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have white miso, you can substitute it with soy sauce or tamari for a similar umami flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

This fresh basil salad dressing can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Presentation Ideas

Drizzle this fresh basil salad dressing over a colorful salad for a vibrant and appetizing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This fresh basil salad dressing pairs well with a variety of salads, including caprese salad, Greek salad, and quinoa salad.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Allow the dressing to come to room temperature before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this fresh basil salad dressing contains approximately 100 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of this fresh basil salad dressing contains approximately 3 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of this fresh basil salad dressing contains approximately 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of this fresh basil salad dressing contains approximately 2 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

This fresh basil salad dressing is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin K, vitamin C, and manganese.

Alergens

This fresh basil salad dressing contains soy (from the tofu) and may not be suitable for those with soy allergies.

Summary

Overall, this fresh basil salad dressing is a nutritious and flavorful addition to any salad.

Summary

Fresh basil salad dressing is a flavorful and nutritious dressing that is easy to make and perfect for adding a burst of flavor to any salad. With its simple ingredients and delicious taste, this dressing is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately hooked. It was a hot summer day and I had gone over to visit my dear friend Martha. As soon as I walked into her kitchen, I was hit with the intoxicating aroma of fresh basil. Martha was busy chopping up the fragrant herb and mixing it with some olive oil, vinegar, and a few other ingredients to create a vibrant green salad dressing.

I watched in awe as Martha effortlessly whipped up the dressing, her hands moving with the precision and grace that can only come from years of experience in the kitchen. She poured the dressing over a bowl of crisp lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers, and invited me to have a taste. One bite was all it took for me to fall in love with the bright, herbaceous flavors of the basil dressing. It was like a taste of summer in every bite.

I begged Martha to share the recipe with me, and she kindly obliged. As she dictated the ingredients and measurements to me, I scribbled them down in my old, tattered recipe notebook. I couldn't wait to try making the dressing for myself at home.

The next day, I gathered all the ingredients I needed and set to work in my own kitchen. I carefully chopped the fresh basil, drizzled in the olive oil and vinegar, and mixed in a touch of honey for sweetness. As I whisked the dressing together, the familiar aroma of basil filled the air, bringing back memories of that sunny summer day with Martha.

When I poured the finished dressing over a bowl of mixed greens, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride. The flavors were just as vibrant and delicious as Martha's had been, and I knew I had found a new favorite recipe to add to my collection.

As the years went by, I continued to make the fresh basil salad dressing for family gatherings, potlucks, and dinner parties. Each time, it was met with rave reviews and requests for the recipe. I was happy to share it with anyone who asked, knowing that the simple yet flavorful dressing had the power to bring joy to others, just as it had to me.

Over time, I began to experiment with the recipe, adding in new ingredients and tweaking the ratios to suit my own tastes. I discovered that a squeeze of lemon juice added a bright, citrusy note to the dressing, while a pinch of red pepper flakes gave it a subtle kick of heat.

I also learned that the key to making the perfect basil dressing lies in using the freshest, highest quality ingredients available. I made sure to pick only the most vibrant basil leaves from my garden, and sought out the best olive oil and vinegar I could find. It made all the difference in the final result, elevating the dressing from good to truly exceptional.

As I continued to make the fresh basil salad dressing over the years, I thought back to that fateful day in Martha's kitchen and how it had sparked my love for creating delicious, homemade recipes. I realized that cooking isn't just about following instructions – it's about passion, creativity, and sharing the fruits of your labor with others.

And so, every time I make a batch of fresh basil salad dressing, I do so with a smile on my face and a grateful heart. It reminds me of the joy of cooking, the power of friendship, and the simple pleasure of sharing a meal with loved ones. And for that, I am forever thankful.