Healthy Creamy Vinaigrette

Most salad dressings are at least 80 percent fat, so they should be used in moderation.

INGREDIENTS | YIELDS 1½ CUPS; SERVING SIZE 3 TABLESPOONS

  • 4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • ½ cup orange juice
  • ¼ cup apricot nectar
  • ½ cup chopped canned apricots
  • 1 teaspoon grated orange zest
  • 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • ¼ cup nonfat light cream
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
  • ½ teaspoon dried basil leaves
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ⅛ teaspoon pepper
  1. Combine all ingredients in food processor or blender. Process or blend until smooth.

  2. Transfer to small jar with screw-top lid and refrigerate for up to 4 days.

  3. Before serving, shake vigorously to re-emulsify.

Calories: 93.93
Fat: 7.09 grams
Fat as % of calories: 67.9%
Carbohydrates: 7.63 grams
Fiber: 0.77 grams
Sodium: 148.23 mg
Vitamin A : 15% DV
Vitamin C: 20% DV
Calcium: 17.98 mg

Salad Dressings

Because of the low-calorie nature of most salad dressing ingredients like fruit juices and vinegars, the oil provides most of the calories. If you include nutrient-dense ingredients like apricots and orange juice, dressings can also provide lots of vitamin C and fiber. Also choose heart-healthy fats like olive oil.

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