When I was younger, I used to enjoy Chinese food, especially from PF Chang’s, and I would eat it frequently. Looking back, I shudder at the thought of consuming so much MSG, high fructose corn syrup, and other unhealthy ingredients. One of the items on the list was Asian salad dressing.
As I transitioned to a real food diet, I made a conscious effort to avoid processed foods and sought out healthier alternatives.
One of my favorites was a delightful Asian salad with a fantastic dressing that I had tried at a small restaurant during a trip. Naturally, I had to recreate it. The result is this Asian salad dressing recipe, which I enjoy making for a quick salad topping or as a marinade for meats or fish.
This dressing is perfect for drizzling over cauliflower rice or using as an overnight marinade for sesame chicken. It’s quick to prepare and bursting with flavor. You can find ingredient substitutions below the recipe, in case you need to make any changes.
Sweet Asian Salad Dressing Recipe
A simple salad dressing recipe with hints of ginger, coconut aminos, and honey. It also makes a great dipping sauce or marinade for meats and fish.
-
Combine all ingredients in a small Mason jar with a lid or a blender.
-
Shake the jar vigorously or blend for 10-15 seconds until smooth and well combined.
-
Taste and adjust the flavor. If you prefer more sweetness, add extra honey or maple syrup. For a tangier vinaigrette, add more apple cider vinegar or citrus juice.
Nutrition Facts
Sweet Asian Salad Dressing Recipe
Amount Per Serving (2 TBSP)
Calories 45
Calories from Fat 45
% Daily Value*
Fat 5g8%
Saturated Fat 1g6%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.5g
Monounsaturated Fat 3g
Sodium 87mg4%
Potassium 9mg0%
Carbohydrates 1g0%
Fiber 0.1g0%
Sugar 1g1%
Protein 0.1g0%
Vitamin A 2IU0%
Vitamin C 0.1mg0%
Calcium 3mg0%
Iron 0.2mg1%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Store in the refrigerator for up to a week. Shake well before each use.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Fresh vs. Dried Ginger: Fresh ginger gives the dressing a more intense, zesty flavor. Dried ginger is milder but still delivers a warm spiciness.
- Herb Options: Adding fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley brings a fresh, herbal layer to the dressing. Leave them out for a simpler vinaigrette.
- Sweetness: Adjust the sweetness to your liking with honey or maple syrup.
- Lemon Juice: Use fresh lemon or lime juice instead of apple cider vinegar for a bright, citrusy twist. Rice wine vinegar or rice vinegar also works and fits the Asian flavor theme.
- Coconut Aminos: Not everyone has coconut aminos on hand. If you still want some yummy umami flavor low sodium soy sauce will also work if you’re not avoiding soy. Tamari (a traditional Japanese sauce) has a similar taste but is gluten-free.
- Olive Oil: Olive oil can have a very robust flavor not everyone likes in salad dressing. Use extra virgin olive oil for full flavor, or regular olive oil for a milder version. Many store-bought versions use canola oil or even grapeseed oil, but these aren’t the best options (for several reasons!).
Ways to Use the Asian Salad Dressing
I use this dressing for so many different dishes. I’ve already mentioned it makes a good marinade (and of course salad dressing). Here are some more serving ideas.
- Make a side salad or a big green salad and top it with chicken for a full meal. I like dark leafy greens for nutrition and some romaine for added crunch.
- Create your own Asian slaw with shredded cabbage and carrots and this Asian ginger dressing.
- Want some topping ideas? Try sliced green onions, toasted sesame seeds, shredded carrots, or a drizzle of toasted sesame oil.
More Asian Inspired Recipes
I eventually created healthy versions of Chinese recipes that I loved. Give a few a try!
What are some of your favorite Asian foods? Have you made your own healthy versions? Leave a comment and let us know!
