Low-fat thousand island dressing

Low-Fat Thousand Island Dressing Recipe - Made with Fresh Ingredients

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 0 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Low-fat thousand island dressing is a healthier alternative to the traditional version, perfect for those looking to cut back on calories and fat without sacrificing flavor. This creamy and tangy dressing is versatile and can be used on salads, sandwiches, or as a dip for vegetables.

History

Thousand island dressing is said to have originated in the early 20th century in the Thousand Islands region of New York. It is believed to have been created by a fishing guide's wife who served it to her husband's fishing party. The dressing gained popularity and has since become a staple in many households.

Ingredients

1 cup peeled, seeded, diced tomato
1 large clove of garlic
0.5 tsp salt
0.25 tsp freshly ground black pepper
0.25 tsp dry mustard
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
4 sprigs of fresh parsley
1 cup low-fat cottage cheese
0.25 cup dill pickle juice
2 tbsp finely chopped dill pickles
1 large hard-boiled egg, finely chopped

How to prepare

To peel and seed tomatoes, bring a pot of water to a boil. Drop in the tomatoes and boil for about 10 seconds. Remove the tomatoes with a slotted spoon and slip off the skins. Core the tomatoes, cut them into quarters, and gently squeeze to remove the juice and seeds. Blend the tomatoes, garlic, salt, pepper, dry mustard, and lemon juice in a blender or food processor until smooth. Pour the mixture into a bowl. Blend the cottage cheese and pickle juice until smooth. Beat together the tomato puree, cottage cheese puree, pickles, and egg. Chill the mixture for at least 1 hour to blend the flavors before serving.

Variations

For a vegan version, substitute the cottage cheese with silken tofu. Add chopped olives or capers for extra flavor. For a spicy kick, add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

When blending the ingredients, make sure to blend until smooth to achieve the desired creamy consistency. Adjust the seasonings to taste, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed. For a thicker dressing, add more cottage cheese. For a thinner dressing, add a little more pickle juice.

Serving Suggestions

Serve low-fat thousand island dressing on salads, sandwiches, or as a dip for vegetables.

Cooking Techniques

Blending the ingredients until smooth is key to achieving the desired creamy consistency of the dressing. Chilling the dressing for at least 1 hour before serving allows the flavors to meld together.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have fresh tomatoes, you can use canned diced tomatoes. You can also substitute fresh parsley with dried parsley. If you don't have dill pickles, you can use sweet pickles or relish.

Make Ahead Tips

Low-fat thousand island dressing can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve low-fat thousand island dressing in a small bowl or jar with a sprinkle of chopped parsley on top for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Low-fat thousand island dressing pairs well with salads, sandwiches, grilled chicken, or as a dip for raw vegetables.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover low-fat thousand island dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Stir well before serving. Do not freeze.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of low-fat thousand island dressing contains approximately 70 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of low-fat thousand island dressing contains approximately 5 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of low-fat thousand island dressing contains approximately 3 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of low-fat thousand island dressing contains approximately 4 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Low-fat thousand island dressing is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, calcium, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cottage cheese) and eggs.

Summary

Low-fat thousand island dressing is a low-calorie, low-fat dressing that is rich in protein and vitamins. It is a healthier alternative to traditional thousand island dressing.

Summary

Low-fat thousand island dressing is a creamy and tangy dressing that is lower in calories and fat compared to the traditional version. It is easy to make and can be used in a variety of ways to add flavor to your favorite dishes.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is one that will always be special to me. It was a hot summer day, and I was rummaging through my old recipe box, searching for something light and refreshing to make for dinner. As I shuffled through the worn index cards, I stumbled upon a small, handwritten note tucked away in the corner. The note read "Low-fat thousand island dressing - Aunt Mildred's secret recipe."

I couldn't believe my luck. Aunt Mildred was known for her delicious and healthy recipes, and I knew that this dressing would be no exception. I immediately set to work gathering the ingredients and preparing to make the dressing.

As I mixed together the fat-free mayonnaise, ketchup, sweet pickle relish, and a splash of vinegar, I couldn't help but think back to the first time I had tasted Aunt Mildred's famous dressing. It was at a family barbecue many years ago, and I had been hooked ever since. The creamy texture, tangy flavor, and hint of sweetness made it the perfect accompaniment to any salad or sandwich.

As I added a dash of Worcestershire sauce and a sprinkle of onion powder to the mixture, I could almost hear Aunt Mildred's voice guiding me through the recipe. She had always been so patient and kind, willing to share her culinary secrets with anyone who asked. I felt honored to be able to carry on her tradition and make this dressing for my own family.

After letting the dressing chill in the refrigerator for a few hours, I eagerly tossed it with some fresh lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and shredded carrots. The vibrant colors and crisp textures made for a beautiful and delicious salad. I couldn't wait to share it with my loved ones and see their reactions.

As we sat down to dinner that evening, I watched with anticipation as my family took their first bites of the salad. To my delight, they all raved about the dressing, commenting on its lightness and flavor. My husband even asked for seconds, a sure sign of success in my book.

As we finished our meal and cleared the plates, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and satisfaction. Not only had I discovered a new favorite recipe, but I had also honored Aunt Mildred's memory in the process. I knew that this low-fat thousand island dressing would become a staple in our household, enjoyed for years to come.

So, as I sit here now, writing down this recipe for future generations to enjoy, I can't help but feel grateful for the culinary traditions that have been passed down to me. Aunt Mildred's secret recipe may have been a surprise find in my old recipe box, but it has quickly become a cherished treasure in my kitchen. And for that, I will always be thankful.