Sometimes there’s nothing I crave more than a big, flavorful salad, but that definitely hasn’t always been the case — it took me a while to realize which combinations I liked most and made me feel the best. But the real turning point was when I started making my own dressings. I knew that the store-bought kinds were usually full of junky ingredients (cheap oils, sugar and artificial sweeteners, etc.), but a simple olive oil and vinegar drizzle just doesn’t always cut it for me. I need bold flavors and creaminess…enter my Maple Mustard Dressing!
This dressing is like an amped up version of a classic honey mustard (although you can definitely use honey instead of maple if you want). It goes with anything so it’s a perfect one to make at the beginning of the week and use for whatever you whip up. Having a great dressing on hand is key for me because then I feel like half the work is already done. Prepping some other basics (quinoa, roasted veggies, etc.) is also super helpful, but back to the dressing…
Turmeric Is a Powerful Anti-inflammatory & Antioxidant
I’ve already posted about how I love ginger and all of its benefits (see my Tropical Immune-Boosting Smoothie and One-Pan Crispy Salmon), but I haven’t mentioned its cousin, turmeric, which provides just as many amazing benefits.
According to Well + Good, you should have at least 2 1/2 teaspoons of turmeric a day in order to really see the anti-inflammatory effects — and that’s a lot. I don’t come close to that amount right now but I’m just trying to just gradually work more of it into my diet, versus actually relieve any particular symptoms.
One important thing to note: curcumin (the active compound in turmeric) is best absorbed when paired with black pepper, so don’t skip it!
Apple Cider Vinegar Isn’t Just For Cooking
Apple cider vinegar is just known as ACV in my house — that’s how much we use it. From using it in the ‘Aztec Secret‘ clay mask to drinking it mixed with water (haven’t gotten Ross that far…yet), it’s really handy to have around.
Many of the ‘cure-all’ rumors seem to be a little light on the scientific backup, but apple cider vinegar has been proven to help reduce blood sugar levels, among other benefits. I’ve also personally found it to help with acid reflux.
Get a Good-Quality Olive Oil
Last but not least, adding more extra-virgin olive oil into your diet is always a good idea! Make sure it’s cold-pressed, which preserves the flavor and nutrients.
Quick Maple Mustard Dressing with Turmeric
Ingredients
- ¼ cup mustard (I like stone ground, such as Thrive Market’s)
- ¼ cup organic, unfiltered apple cider vinegar* (such as Bragg's)
- ¼ cup extra-virgin, cold-pressed olive oil
- 1-2 tbsp pure maple syrup (or honey)
- 1 tsp ground turmeric
- several grinds of fresh black pepper
- 1-2 tbsp water
- 1 large garlic clove, pressed (optional)
- sea salt to taste
Instructions
- Add all ingredients except the water to a jar or container with a tight-fitting lid, put the lid on and shake it until well mixed. I love this Oxo Shaker. (You can also whisk it, or pulse it a few times with an immersion blender or in a regular blender.) Add about a tablespoon of water at a time as needed to thin it out (this will depend on your mustard and preference). Add salt and/or more maple to taste.
- Dressing keeps well in the fridge for up to two weeks (shake it up again each time you use it).
Mila
This is great! I didn’t have any good maple syrup, so I substituted honey. Tastes delicious!
Siobhan
Yay glad you liked it!! Need to make myself a batch for this week
Kim
This looks delicious! I have that oxo dressing shaker and I can’t wait to make this 🙂 Thanks Chef Shiv!
Siobhan
Woo the shaker is the best!