Professional Chefs’ Recommended Store-Bought Salad Dressings
If you’re looking to elevate the flavors of your salads but don’t have the time or energy to make your own dressing from scratch, fear not! Professional chefs have got you covered with their top recommendations for store-bought salad dressings. Newman’s Own Lemon Basil Vinaigrette steals the hearts of chefs with its perfect balance and ability to complement a variety of salad ingredients. Hidden Valley Ranch Dressing, on the other hand, shines when it comes to its impeccable flavor and its unmatched ability to cling to chicken wings. Makoto Original Ginger Dressing stands out for its intense flavor and versatility, doubling as a marinade and more. Trader Joe’s Green Goddess Salad Dressing, with its organic and herb-infused flavor, is the go-to choice for many. Kewpie Deep-Roasted Sesame Dressing adds a creamy touch to Asian noodle salads and other dishes. Marie’s Caesar Dressing is a reliable option, made with real pecorino and sour cream, skipping any artificial ingredients. If you’re on a budget, Kraft Asian Toasted Sesame Dressing is an easily accessible choice that pairs well with Chinese chicken and mandarin orange salads. And for those health-conscious folks, Bragg Organic Ginger and Sesame Dressing offers a clean ingredient list and a robust base of garlic, ginger, and sesame. So, next time you’re in the grocery store, keep these chef-approved dressings in mind to give your salads the professional touch they deserve.
Newman’s Own Lemon Basil Vinaigrette
Description
Newman’s Own Lemon Basil Vinaigrette is a top choice among professional chefs for its exceptional balance of flavors. This dressing combines the tanginess of lemon with the freshness of basil, creating a delightful combination that enhances any salad. It has just the right amount of acidity and sweetness, making it versatile and adaptable to a variety of salad ingredients.
Chefs’ Reviews
Chefs love Newman’s Own Lemon Basil Vinaigrette for its bright and refreshing taste. The lemon adds a zesty kick, while the basil brings a hint of earthiness. The flavors are well-balanced, and neither one overpowers the other. This dressing has a light and smooth texture that glides over the greens, evenly coating each bite. It adds a burst of flavor that elevates the taste of the salad without overpowering other components.
Recommended Pairings
Newman’s Own Lemon Basil Vinaigrette pairs well with a wide range of ingredients. It complements salads with mixed greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers wonderfully. The tangy lemon flavor works especially well with seafood salads, adding a refreshing contrast to the richness of the fish. Try it on a grilled shrimp salad or a tuna niçoise salad for a burst of citrusy goodness. This vinaigrette also complements roasted vegetables, such as asparagus or roasted potatoes, adding a vibrant touch to these dishes.
Hidden Valley Ranch Dressing
Description
Hidden Valley Ranch Dressing is highly regarded by chefs for its consistently perfect flavor. This classic dressing has a creamy and tangy taste that has become a favorite among many. It has a smooth consistency that clings well to salads, particularly chicken or vegetable salads. Hidden Valley Ranch Dressing is known for its versatility and ability to enhance the flavors of a variety of dishes.
Chefs’ Reviews
Chefs praise Hidden Valley Ranch Dressing for its familiarity and crowd-pleasing flavor. Its creamy texture provides a luscious mouthfeel, while the tangy and herbaceous notes bring depth and balance to the salad. This dressing is also great for dipping chicken wings as it sticks well to the crispy exterior, adding a burst of delicious flavor. It’s a reliable choice that satisfies both kids and adults alike.
Recommended Pairings
Hidden Valley Ranch Dressing is a fantastic accompaniment to a variety of ingredients. It pairs exceptionally well with salads featuring crispy vegetables like lettuce, carrots, and radishes. It can also be used as a dip for fresh cut vegetables, adding a creamy and tangy element. When it comes to main dishes, Hidden Valley Ranch Dressing is a fantastic addition to chicken and turkey salads, as it brings out the flavor of the poultry. Its versatility allows it to enhance the taste of almost any dish.
Makoto Original Ginger Dressing
Description
Makoto Original Ginger Dressing stands out for its intense flavor and versatility. This Japanese-inspired dressing has a distinct ginger taste that adds a unique kick to any salad. It uses a blend of soy sauce, vinegar, and ginger to create a rich and flavorful dressing that can also be used as a marinade for meats and seafood.
Chefs’ Reviews
Chefs rave about the intense flavor of Makoto Original Ginger Dressing. The ginger adds a spicy and aromatic element that wakes up the taste buds. The dressing has a well-balanced combination of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. Its versatility makes it a favorite among chefs who appreciate its ability to enhance the taste of salads, grilled meats, and roasted vegetables. The dressing also provides a wonderful umami flavor that adds depth to various dishes.
Recommended Pairings
Makoto Original Ginger Dressing complements a variety of salads, particularly those with Asian-inspired ingredients. Use it to dress a vibrant Asian chicken salad or toss it with mixed greens, cucumbers, and mandarin oranges for a refreshing twist. It works especially well with grilled meats and seafood, acting as both a marinade and a flavorful topping. Drizzle it over roasted vegetables, such as broccoli or carrots, for a burst of ginger-infused goodness. The possibilities are endless with this versatile dressing.
Trader Joe’s Green Goddess Salad Dressing
Description
Trader Joe’s Green Goddess Salad Dressing is a beloved choice among chefs for its fresh and herb-infused flavor. This creamy dressing features a blend of herbs, including basil, parsley, and chives, which gives it a vibrant and delicious taste. The dressing is chilled, adding to its freshness and providing a delightful cooling sensation when paired with salads.
Chefs’ Reviews
Chefs appreciate the organic and herbaceous flavors of Trader Joe’s Green Goddess Salad Dressing. The combination of basil, parsley, and chives creates a well-balanced and refreshing taste that complements a wide range of salad ingredients. The dressing has a smooth and creamy texture that glides over greens, ensuring each bite is coated with deliciousness. It adds a burst of flavor that enhances the overall taste of the salad, elevating it to another level.
Recommended Pairings
Trader Joe’s Green Goddess Salad Dressing is a perfect match for salads with a variety of fresh vegetables. It pairs well with mixed greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes, highlighting their natural flavors. It also beautifully complements salads with avocado, adding a creamy and tangy element. Try it on a spinach salad with strawberries and pecans for a delightful combination of flavors. This dressing is also great on sandwich wraps or as a dip for crudités, enhancing the taste of these dishes with its herb-infused freshness.
Kewpie Deep-Roasted Sesame Dressing
Description
Kewpie Deep-Roasted Sesame Dressing is a sesame-based dressing that brings a creamy and flavorful touch to salads and other dishes. It is made with carefully roasted sesame seeds, which gives it a rich and nutty taste that is loved by many. This dressing adds a unique twist to Asian noodle salads and pairs wonderfully with a variety of ingredients.
Chefs’ Reviews
Chefs are impressed by the creamy and flavorful nature of Kewpie Deep-Roasted Sesame Dressing. The roasted sesame seeds provide a deep and nutty taste that creates a wonderful contrast against crisp vegetables and tender greens. The dressing has a smooth texture that coats the ingredients evenly, ensuring a well-dressed salad. It adds depth and complexity to the dish, making it a go-to choice for chefs who want to elevate their salads.
Recommended Pairings
Kewpie Deep-Roasted Sesame Dressing is ideal for salads with an Asian flair. It pairs exceptionally well with chilled noodle salads, such as soba or ramen salads, as the nutty flavor of the dressing complements the noodles perfectly. It also adds a delightful touch to salads with crunchy vegetables like cabbage and carrots. For a unique twist, try drizzling it over a sesame chicken salad or use it as a dipping sauce for spring rolls. The roasted sesame flavor will take your Asian-inspired dishes to the next level.
Marie’s Caesar Dressing
Description
Marie’s Caesar Dressing is a reliable option for those seeking a classic Caesar salad dressing. Made with real pecorino and sour cream, it delivers a rich and tangy flavor that is loved by many. This dressing boasts a creamy texture and is made without artificial ingredients, ensuring a high-quality and authentic taste.
Chefs’ Reviews
Chefs value the authenticity of Marie’s Caesar Dressing. The use of real pecorino and sour cream gives it a genuinely traditional and tangy flavor. The dressing has a luscious and creamy texture that effortlessly clings to the leaves, ensuring a well-dressed salad. It strikes a perfect balance between the rich creaminess and the sharpness of the cheese, creating an indulgent experience for the taste buds. Chefs appreciate the fact that Marie’s Caesar Dressing doesn’t rely on artificial ingredients to achieve its delicious taste.
Recommended Pairings
Marie’s Caesar Dressing is a perfect match for Caesar salads, as its authentic flavor complements the ingredients commonly found in this classic dish. Toss it with crisp romaine lettuce, shaved Parmesan, and croutons for a mouthwatering experience. This dressing also works well with grilled chicken or shrimp, adding a tangy and creamy element to these proteins. For a twist, try using it as a dipping sauce for garlic bread or as a spread for sandwiches. Its versatility allows it to be enjoyed in various ways, always bringing a satisfying Caesar taste.
Kraft Asian Toasted Sesame Dressing
Description
Kraft Asian Toasted Sesame Dressing is an inexpensive and easily accessible option that works well with Asian-inspired salads. This dressing features a combination of toasted sesame seeds, ginger, and soy sauce, creating a savory and umami-rich flavor profile. It offers a convenient and budget-friendly option for those looking to add an Asian twist to their salads.
Chefs’ Reviews
Chefs appreciate the accessibility and affordability of Kraft Asian Toasted Sesame Dressing. Despite its lower price point, it delivers a flavorful punch with its blend of sesame, ginger, and soy sauce. The dressing has a smooth and consistent texture that evenly coats the salad ingredients. Chefs find that it holds up well when tossed with salads, providing a satisfying burst of Asian flavors. It offers a balance of sweet and savory notes that elevate the taste of the dish.
Recommended Pairings
Kraft Asian Toasted Sesame Dressing adds an Asian flair to a variety of salads. It pairs well with Chinese chicken salads, as the dressing’s flavors merge with the crispy chicken, mandarin oranges, and crunchy veggies. Use it to dress an Asian-inspired grain bowl with quinoa, edamame, and cucumber for a well-rounded and flavorful meal. This versatile dressing can also be used as a glaze for grilled meats or as a dipping sauce for spring rolls. Its accessibility and affordability make it a reliable choice for those wanting to explore Asian flavors.
Bragg Organic Ginger and Sesame Dressing
Description
Bragg Organic Ginger and Sesame Dressing is a health-forward option that features clean ingredients and a flavor-packed base of garlic, ginger, and sesame. This dressing is made with organic apple cider vinegar and extra virgin olive oil, ensuring high-quality and wholesome elements. It adds a tangy and aromatic touch to salads, enhancing their taste while providing nutritional benefits.
Chefs’ Reviews
Chefs appreciate the clean and health-oriented nature of Bragg Organic Ginger and Sesame Dressing. They value the use of organic ingredients, as well as the carefully selected combination of garlic, ginger, and sesame. The dressing provides a bold and robust flavor that adds depth and character to salads. Its tangy and well-balanced taste complements a variety of ingredients while offering a refreshing and revitalizing experience. Chefs also appreciate the nutritional benefits that come with the use of high-quality organic ingredients.
Recommended Pairings
Bragg Organic Ginger and Sesame Dressing pairs well with a range of salads that benefit from its bold and robust flavors. It works particularly well with kale salads, as the dressing helps to soften the sturdy leaves while complementing their earthy taste. Add it to a grain salad with quinoa or farro for an extra kick of flavor. This dressing can also be used as a marinade for grilled meats or roasted vegetables, infusing them with its distinct garlic, ginger, and sesame notes. Embrace the health-conscious aspect of this dressing by adding it to nourishing and vibrant salads.
Primal Kitchen Greek Vinaigrette
Description
Primal Kitchen Greek Vinaigrette is a flavorful dressing that brings the taste of Greece to your salads. This dressing features a blend of organic red wine vinegar, olive oil, lemon juice, and a variety of traditional Greek herbs and spices. It offers a tangy and herb-infused taste that transports you to the Mediterranean with each bite.
Chefs’ Reviews
Chefs praise Primal Kitchen Greek Vinaigrette for its authentic and vibrant flavors. The organic red wine vinegar provides a tangy punch, while the olive oil adds richness and depth. The dressing’s combination of Greek herbs and spices creates a well-balanced taste that enhances the overall flavor of the salad. Chefs appreciate the quality of the ingredients used in this dressing, as it guarantees a high-quality and genuine Greek experience.
Recommended Pairings
Primal Kitchen Greek Vinaigrette is a fantastic choice for Greek-inspired salads. Try it on a classic Greek salad with crisp romaine lettuce, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and cucumbers for a traditional taste. It also works well with salads featuring grilled chicken or lamb, as the dressing complements the savory flavors of the meat. Drizzle it over a quinoa and vegetable salad for a wholesome and flavorful meal. Let the taste of Greece shine through by embracing the Mediterranean flavors of this vinaigrette.
Annie’s Organic Goddess Dressing
Description
Annie’s Organic Goddess Dressing is a popular choice among those seeking a flavorful and organic dressing. This dressing features a blend of tahini, lemon, and chives, creating a creamy and herb-infused taste. Its organic ingredients ensure a high-quality and clean eating experience, making it a favorite among health-conscious individuals.
Chefs’ Reviews
Chefs appreciate the creamy and herbaceous flavors of Annie’s Organic Goddess Dressing. The use of tahini provides a luscious and smooth texture, while the lemon adds a tangy and refreshing element. The dressing strikes a balance between creaminess and zestiness, making it suitable for a variety of salads. Chefs value the clean and organic ingredients used in this dressing, as it aligns with their commitment to using high-quality and wholesome ingredients in their recipes.
Recommended Pairings
Annie’s Organic Goddess Dressing works well with a plethora of salads, particularly those with leafy greens and crisp vegetables. Toss it with a quinoa and kale salad for a nutritious and flavorful meal. It also pairs beautifully with roasted or grilled vegetables, enhancing their natural flavors. For a twist, use it as a dip for crudité platters, adding a creamy and herb-infused element to the fresh vegetables. This versatile dressing can be enjoyed in various ways, providing a delicious and organic option for salad lovers.
In conclusion, these store-bought dressings have won the hearts of professional chefs for their exceptional flavors, versatility, and high-quality ingredients. From the tanginess of Newman’s Own Lemon Basil Vinaigrette to the herb-infused freshness of Trader Joe’s Green Goddess Salad Dressing, there is something for everyone’s taste preferences. Whether you’re looking for a classic Caesar dressing like Marie’s Caesar Dressing or an Asian-inspired twist like Bragg Organic Ginger and Sesame Dressing, these options provide an easy and convenient way to elevate the taste of your salads. So go ahead, dress up your greens with these recommended dressings and enjoy a burst of deliciousness in every bite.