
When temperatures rise, meals become lighter. However, a mixed salad can quickly become monotonous if it is always accompanied by the same sauce. A few simple ingredients are enough to create amazing flavor combinations.
Between the creaminess of avocado, the freshness of herbs, the character of parmesan or the smoky notes of chipotle, these recipes offer new ideas to accompany crunchy vegetables, grilled meats, fish or summer bowls.
Fresh and creamy vinaigrettes to accompany all your summer salads
Avocado-Lime Vinaigrette
It’s impossible to miss this recipe when you’re looking for a sauce that is both light and delicious. The avocado provides a velvety texture while the lime provides immediate freshness.
To prepare it, mix:
- 1 lawyer
- 2 tablespoons of lime juice
- 2 tablespoons of Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 clove of garlic
- 2 tablespoons of water
- Salt and black pepper
This vinaigrette goes particularly well with shrimp salads, grilled vegetables or even quinoa-based bowls.
Creamy Ranch Sauce
Lovers of herbaceous flavors will appreciate this homemade version of the famous ranch sauce.
It combines:
- 120 g of Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped chives
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper
Its fresh taste goes perfectly with raw vegetables, grilled chicken or a summer potato salad.
Green Goddess Dressing
This green sauce seduces as much by its bright color as by its vegetable flavor.
To make it, you need:
- 1 cup fresh parsley
- 120 ml of Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons of lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 clove of garlic
- 2 tablespoons of water
- Salt and pepper
The result is a lively and fragrant vinaigrette that enhances salads made with cucumber, avocado or young shoots.
Sauces that bring character to every bite
Chipotle Lime Sauce
If you like more intense flavors, this recipe deserves a place in your fridge this summer.
It consists of:
- 60 g of Greek yogurt
- 1 chipotle pepper
- 2 tablespoons of lime juice
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 clove of garlic
- 1 teaspoon of honey
-
Salt
The combination of lime and chipotle creates a balance between freshness, sweetness and smoky notes. It is ideal with tacos, Mexican salads or grilled meats.
Lemon and Parmesan Vinaigrette
With its rich and slightly spicy taste, this sauce is reminiscent of certain preparations served in Italian restaurants.
You will need:
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2 tablespoons of lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon of Greek yogurt
- 1 clove of garlic
- Salt and pepper
It brings a lot of depth to a salad of arugula, heirloom tomatoes or grilled vegetables.
Vinaigrettes that surprise with their original flavors
Honey Mustard Dressing
A great classic for summer meals, it seduces with its balance between sweetness and character.
The recipe combines:
- 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons of honey
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 tablespoon of cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- A pinch of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
This sauce goes well with green salads as well as preparations containing chicken, cheese or summer fruits.
Sesame and ginger vinaigrette
Head to Asia with this recipe with deep and fragrant flavors.
To prepare it:
- 2 tablespoons of sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon of honey
- 1 teaspoon chopped fresh ginger
- 1 clove of garlic
Its unique flavor goes perfectly with coleslaws, cold noodles, crunchy vegetables or poke bowls.
With these seven recipes in your repertoire, each summer salad can display a different personality. A simple handful of vegetables then becomes an opportunity to discover new flavors and renew your meals throughout the season.
What is the best dressing for a summer salad?
It all depends on the ingredients in your salad. An avocado vinaigrette adds creaminess, while a lemon and herb sauce provides extra freshness for hotter days.
Can these vinaigrettes be prepared in advance?
Yes. Most of these recipes can be prepared 24 to 48 hours in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It is usually enough to stir them before use.
How long does homemade vinaigrette last?
A vinaigrette containing only oil, vinegar or lemon can be kept for several days. Recipes based on yogurt, avocado or fresh herbs should be consumed more quickly, ideally within 2 to 3 days.
Which vinaigrette to choose to accompany grilled meats?
Chipotle and lime, honey and mustard sauces or even sesame and ginger vinaigrette go particularly well with grilled meats, chicken or barbecued vegetables.
How do you make a salad dressing creamier without using a lot of mayonnaise?
Greek yogurt is a great alternative. It provides a thick and delicious texture while maintaining a certain lightness, as in several recipes presented in this article.
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