Description
This vibrant Ginger Dressing is a fresh and flavorful blend of grated ginger, sweet onion, and crisp vegetables balanced with tangy rice vinegar and a touch of sweetness from agave nectar. Perfect as a zesty topping for salads, especially simple iceberg and tomato combinations, this dressing offers a delightful mix of textures and punchy flavors, enhanced by optional white miso paste for depth.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 cup sweet onion (such as Vidalia), chopped
- 6 tablespoons grated fresh ginger
- ¼ cup celery, chopped
- ½ cup carrots, chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh garlic, minced
Liquids and Seasonings
- 2/3 cup rice vinegar
- ¼ cup water
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 2 ½ tablespoons soy sauce
- ¼ cup agave nectar
- 1 ½ tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon white pepper
- 1 tablespoon white miso paste (optional but recommended)
- 1 cup good quality peanut oil
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables and aromatics: In a food processor, combine the chopped sweet onion, grated fresh ginger, celery, carrots, and minced garlic. Pulse until the mixture is fine and grainy but not completely pureed, preserving some texture for a flavorful dressing base.
- Incorporate the liquids and seasonings: Add the rice vinegar, water, ketchup, soy sauce, agave nectar, lemon juice, kosher salt, white pepper, and optional white miso paste into the food processor. Pulse a few times to evenly mix these ingredients with the vegetable mixture.
- Emulsify the dressing: While the food processor is running, slowly pour in the peanut oil in a steady stream. Continue processing until the mixture is loose with a slightly grainy consistency, achieving a balanced texture and well-emulsified dressing.
- Serve: Use the ginger dressing immediately over a simple iceberg and tomato salad or refrigerate in an airtight container to enjoy later. This dressing adds a vibrant zing to any fresh salad.
Notes
- Use freshly grated ginger for the best aromatic flavor and brightness in the dressing.
- White miso paste is optional but recommended as it adds umami depth and richness to the dressing.
- The dressing can be stored in the refrigerator in a sealed container for up to 5 days; stir gently before serving.
- For a nuttier flavor, ensure you use high-quality peanut oil, as it contributes significantly to the overall taste.
