Miso-Ginger Salad Dressing
Elevate any simple salad with this umami-packed Miso-Ginger Salad Dressing. It takes just minutes to whisk together and adds a vibrant, savory-sweet kick to your greens and beyond.
For 4 servings
Prepare the fresh ginger: Peel a 1-inch piece of ginger and finely grate it using a microplane or a fine grater. You should have about 1 tablespoon.
Combine ingredients: In a small mixing bowl or a jar with a tight-fitting lid, add the white miso paste, rice vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, grated fresh ginger, maple syrup (or honey), and toasted sesame oil.
Whisk or shake vigorously: If using a bowl, whisk continuously until the miso paste is fully dissolved and all ingredients are well combined and emulsified into a smooth dressing. If using a jar, secure the lid tightly and shake vigorously for 30-60 seconds.
Adjust consistency: Gradually add 2-3 tablespoons of water, whisking or shaking after each addition, until the dressing reaches your desired pourable consistency. You may need slightly more or less depending on your miso's thickness.
Taste and adjust: Taste the dressing and adjust seasonings as needed. You might add a pinch of salt if it feels flat, a touch more maple syrup for sweetness, or another splash of rice vinegar for extra tang.
Serve immediately or store: Drizzle generously over your favorite salad greens, roasted vegetables, grain bowls, or use as a marinade. For best flavor, let it sit for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Use unpasteurized miso: For maximum probiotic benefits, ensure your miso paste is unpasteurized. White or yellow miso works best for its milder, sweeter flavor profile.
- 2Emulsification is key: To prevent separation, ensure you whisk or shake vigorously until the dressing is fully emulsified. If it separates upon standing, simply re-whisk or re-shake before serving.
- 3Beyond salads: This versatile dressing also makes an excellent marinade for chicken, fish, or tofu, a sauce for stir-fries, or a dip for fresh vegetables.
- 4Ginger prep: For the smoothest dressing, ensure your ginger is very finely grated. Larger pieces can give a strong, fibrous texture.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy Kick
Add 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of sriracha or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a fiery twist.
Citrus BrightnessCitrus Brightness
Replace 1 tablespoon of water with fresh lime or lemon juice for an extra bright and zesty flavor profile.
Nutty CreaminessNutty Creaminess
Whisk in 1 tablespoon of tahini or a smooth, unsweetened cashew butter for a richer, creamier dressing with added depth.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Probiotic Rich
Unpasteurized miso paste is a fermented food that contains beneficial probiotics, which can support gut health and digestion.
Anti-inflammatory Properties
Fresh ginger is known for its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds, which may help reduce inflammation in the body.
Heart-Healthy Fats
Extra virgin olive oil provides monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health and can help lower bad cholesterol levels.
Frequently asked questions
White (Shiro) or yellow (Awase) miso paste is recommended for this dressing due to their milder, sweeter flavors. If you prefer a stronger, saltier taste, you could use red miso, but start with a smaller amount.
