Tired of the same old boring salads? It’s time to awaken your taste buds with a dressing that does it all! This Orange Ginger Dressing is a flavor explosion in a jar, masterfully balancing the four essential tastes: sweet from dates and orange juice, sour from fresh lemon, salty from umami-rich miso and tamari, and a pungent kick from fresh ginger. Drizzle it over bitter greens like kale, and you’ll unlock the fifth flavor for a truly sensational meal. Say goodbye to bland and hello to your new favorite dressing!
Ingredients
• 4 pitted dates
• 1 cup / 250 mL freshly squeezed orange juice
• 2 tablespoons / 30 mL almond butter
• 2 tablespoons / 30 mL grated fresh ginger
• 2 tablespoons / 30 mL miso
• 2 tablespoons / 30 mL lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons / 30 mL tamari
• Pinch of cayenne pepper
Instructions
1. Soak the dates in the orange juice for at least 6 hours, or overnight, until they are very soft.
2. Transfer the dates and the orange juice to a high-speed blender. Add the almond butter, ginger, miso, lemon juice, tamari, and cayenne pepper.
3. Blend on high for 30-60 seconds, or until the dressing is completely smooth and creamy.
4. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Nutritional Information
• Per 1/4 cup / 60 mL serving: Calories: 73, Protein: 2 g, Fat: 3 g, Carbohydrate: 10 g, Sodium: 498 mg, Vitamin C: 21 mg. Percentage of calories from protein 11%, fat 36%, carbohydrate 53%.
Pro Tips
• For a quick-soak method, cover the dates in very hot (not boiling) orange juice and let them sit for 30 minutes to soften.
• Adjust the consistency by adding a tablespoon of water at a time while blending if you prefer a thinner dressing.
• This versatile dressing doubles as a fantastic marinade for tofu or tempeh, or as a dipping sauce for fresh spring rolls.
• For a nut-free alternative, substitute the almond butter with an equal amount of tahini for a creamier, earthier flavor.
FAQ
Q: Can I make this orange ginger dressing soy-free
A: Absolutely. To make a soy-free version, replace the tamari with an equal amount of coconut aminos. For the miso, look for a chickpea-based miso, which provides a similar savory, umami flavor without using soy.
Q: What are the best vegetarian ways to use this dressing
A: This dressing is incredibly versatile for vegetarian meals. Beyond salads, use it as a marinade for tofu or tempeh, a flavorful sauce for grain bowls with quinoa and roasted vegetables, or as a delicious dipping sauce for fresh spring rolls or steamed edamame.
Q: Is this dressing a good source of vegetarian protein
A: This dressing contributes 2 grams of protein per serving, mainly from the almond butter and miso. To create a high-protein vegetarian meal, pair it with protein-rich ingredients like chickpeas, lentils, edamame, or baked tofu in your salad or bowl.
Q: How long does this homemade vegetarian dressing last
A: Store this Orange Ginger Dressing in an airtight container, such as a mason jar, in the refrigerator for up to one week. The flavors will meld and may even taste better after a day. Give it a good shake before each use as some natural separation can occur.
