Things I No Longer Buy at the Store: Salad Dressings

When I started focusing on my health and finding ways to save money, one of the first things I stopped buying at the store was bottled salad dressings. While convenient, many store-bought dressings are packed with unhealthy oils, added sugars, and preservatives. Making my own dressings not only allows me to control the ingredients but also saves money and elevates the flavor of my meals. Plus, it's easier than you think! Once you do it, you’ll never go back!

In this first installment of the "Things I No Longer Buy" series, I’m sharing three of my go-to homemade salad dressing recipes. They’re fresh, simple, and so much better than anything you can buy.

1. Homemade Caesar Dressing

This creamy, garlicky Caesar dressing is perfect for a classic Caesar salad or as a dip for veggies. Leave out the anchovy if you want, but I think it adds such a great flavor, and it’s not fishy at all!

Ingredients:

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• 2 anchovy fillets (or 1 tsp anchovy paste)

• 2 tsp Dijon mustard

• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

• 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice

• ½ cup mayonnaise (I use avocado or olive oil-based for a healthier option.)

• ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together the garlic, anchovies, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and lemon juice.

2. Add the mayonnaise and Parmesan cheese, whisking until smooth.

3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

2. Simple Balsamic Vinaigrette

This is a versatile dressing that pairs well with almost any salad. I always have this in our fridge!

Ingredients:

• 3 Tbsp balsamic vinegar

• 1 tsp Dijon mustard

• 1 tsp honey or maple syrup (optional, for a touch of sweetness)

• ½ cup olive oil

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a jar with a tight-fitting lid, combine the balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and honey (if using).

2. Add the olive oil, salt, and pepper.

3. Shake well until emulsified.

4. Store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Shake before each use.

3. Cilantro Lime Dressing

This zesty and vibrant dressing is ideal for taco salads or drizzling over grilled vegetables. I love this on a chicken taco salad for dinner!

Ingredients:

• ½ cup fresh cilantro leaves

• 2 Tbsp fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)

• 1 clove garlic

• ¼ cup avocado oil mayonaise

• 1/4 buttermilk

• 1/2 a packet of ranch seasoning

Instructions:

1. Add all the ingredients to a blender or food processor.

2. Blend until smooth. Adjust the consistency with a bit of water if it’s too thick.

3. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

Why Make Your Own?

• Healthier Ingredients: You control the oils, sweeteners, and seasonings.

• Customizable Flavors: Adjust the recipes to your taste preferences.

• Cost-Effective: The ingredients for these dressings can be used in multiple recipes, saving you money in the long run.

Switching to homemade dressings has been a game-changer for me. These recipes not only enhance my meals but also give me peace of mind about what I’m putting into my body. Stay tuned for part 2 where I share even more things that I make at home instead of buying from the store!

I have to add, I love convenience, so I don’t make everything at home, but I have found a lot of things that I can make easily…that’s the key! Haha!

Which dressing will you try first? Let me know in the comments!