Sesame Dressing

Elevate your salad game with this Sesame Dressing that's bursting with flavor! Its delicious and tangy, takes 5 minutes to make, and can be used to transform salads, noodles, poke bowls and proteins to another level 🙂

If you're wondering what the secret to a good salad is….it's the dressing! You can make the simplest salad a show stopping dish, and it's all thanks to this Sesame Dressing. It has an Asian inspired flavor profile which is the perfect combination of tangy, sweet and salty all at the same time, without being overpowering. All you need are 5 minutes and 6 ingredients you may have in your kitchen right now 🙂

Here I've served it on my edamame salad which has quietly become my new obsession. It's currently summertime here, and it's stinking hot! The only thing I crave to eat for lunch and dinner are salads which are refreshing, nutritious and most importantly delicious of course. I don't want to spend hours in the kitchen everyday, so I love whipping up a batch of this sesame dressing and using it during the week on my salads. Another great recipe to add it to, is my chopped Asian salad.

If you’re not a huge salad fan, don't worry. You can also use this sesame dressing on other dishes such as veggies, noodles, poke or rice bowls and it's even great to marinate your favorite protein such as tofu, salmon or chicken. The balance of flavors in the dressing really tastes good with everything, so let your imagination go wild hehe.

Another bonus to making your own homemade dressings such as this sesame dressing, is that its healthier and cheaper. Already pre-made store bought sauces and dressings can contain a bunch of additives and preservatives and are usually high in sugar. By making it yourself, you save money and also ensure you're only using wholesome ingredients, so its a win win 😉

Some other homemade dressings to try are my peanut sauce, miso dressing and gyoza dipping sauce.

Table of Contents

• Why you'll love this Sesame Dressing
• Ingredients and Substitutions
• How to make Sesame Dressing
• Tips and Tricks
• Storage Instructions
• FAQs
• Pairing
• More Sauces and Dressings
• Recipe
• Comments

Why you'll love this Sesame Dressing

• Quick & Easy: This dressing comes together in 5 minutes using simple ingredients
• Delicious: The combination of sweet, salty, and tangy tastes amazing on everything 
• Versatile: Perfect for salads, noodles, poke bowls, marinades, or as a dipping sauce
• Healthier & Cheaper: Making your own salad dressing with wholesome ingredients makes it healthier and cheaper than buying store bought sauces that can contain preservatives 

Ingredients and Substitutions

• Toasted sesame oil is the base of the dressing, adding a delicious nutty aroma and flavor to the dressing. It's made from toasted sesame seeds and has a delicious flavor
• Extra virgin olive oil then balances out the richness and gives it body
• Rice wine vinegar also known as rice vinegar, adds tanginess with a light acidity. I find white vinegar a little too strong, however apple cider vinegar or lemon juice are good substitutes
• Soy sauce enhances the overall flavor profile and adds the salty element without the need to add any salt. I always prefer low-sodium soy sauce or tamari for a gluten-free option
• Honey or maple syrup adds a touch of sweetness to balance the flavors. You can adjust the amount of honey to your taste preference if you like it sweeter
• Ginger adds such a yummy flavor so I wouldn't miss adding it. It adds a fresh yet spicy kick. Fresh ginger is best for the most flavor, but ground ginger can be used in a pinch. A touch of garlic would also add to the flavors if you don't mind raw garlic

How to make Sesame Dressing

This dressing is so easy to make it takes 5 minutes to come together. Follow my simple step below.

1. Add dressing ingredients (sesame oil, olive oil, soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, honey minced ginger) to a small bowl. Whisk to combine and its ready!

Tips and Tricks

1. Use fresh ginger, grated or minced fresh ginger is always best for maximum flavor
2. Adjust to taste, feel free to experiment with different amounts of ingredients to suit your preferences if you like it sweeter or saltier
3. Allow the dressing to sit for a few minutes before using to allow the flavors to meld
4. Always shake or whisk the sesame dressing before using. The longer it sits, it can separate with the oils on top
5. Get creative on how you serve it. Anything from green veggies, edamame / soybeans, rice or poke bowls, proteins and of course salads and cabbage slaws work great 

Storage Instructions

• Store the dressing in an airtight container or mason jar in the refrigerator for up to a week
• Ensure to shake well before using as the ingredients and oils can separate

FAQs

Pairing

These are my favorite dishes to serve with a Sesame Dressing:

More Sauces and Dressings

Looking for other recipes like this? Try these:

I love seeing your creations and remakes, so be sure to rate the recipe, comment and share your Sesame Dressing photo on Instagram so I can share the love!

Recipe