Uncle Bill’s Low Fat Dressing Recipe
Description
Uncle Bill’s Low Fat Dressing is a delightful and healthy addition to any salad, designed to be low in fat and cholesterol while bursting with flavor. This easy-to-make dressing can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick meal or snack. The combination of fresh ingredients like shallots, Dijon mustard, and fresh parsley with a blend of white and red wine vinegar creates a tangy, slightly sweet dressing that complements a variety of salads and vegetables.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 8
- Yield: 3 cups
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 26.5
- Fat Content: 0.2g
- Saturated Fat Content: 0g
- Cholesterol Content: 0mg
- Sodium Content: 337.2mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 5.6g
- Fiber Content: 0.4g
- Sugar Content: 2.6g
- Protein Content: 0.4g
Ingredients
- 2 cups water
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/4 cup tapioca starch
- 1 cup water (for mixing cornstarch and tapioca starch)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons fresh ground black pepper
- 1 shallot, finely chopped
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 teaspoons Hungarian paprika
- 1/4 cup white vinegar
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon liquid honey
Instructions
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Boil Water:
- In a medium-sized saucepan, add 2 cups of water and bring it to a boil.
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Prepare Cornstarch Mixture:
- In a small dish, mix together the cornstarch and 1/4 cup of cold water until it is well dissolved. This mixture will help thicken the dressing.
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Thicken the Water:
- Add the cornstarch mixture to the boiling water in the saucepan, stirring constantly until it is well blended and starts to thicken.
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Cool the Mixture:
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the mixture cool.
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Combine Ingredients:
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the salt, black pepper, chopped shallot, Dijon mustard, chopped garlic, chopped parsley, paprika, white vinegar, red wine vinegar, and honey. Mix these ingredients well to blend.
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Incorporate Thickened Water:
- Add the cooled water mixture to the bowl of mixed ingredients and stir well to ensure everything is well combined.
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Store the Dressing:
- Pour the dressing into a glass jar with a lid and store it in the refrigerator. Shake well before each use.
Tips for Success
- Freshness: Use fresh ingredients where possible, especially for the shallots, garlic, and parsley. This ensures the dressing has a vibrant flavor.
- Storage: This dressing can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Always shake well before using to re-emulsify the ingredients.
- Versatility: While this recipe is designed as a salad dressing, it can also be used as a marinade for vegetables or as a flavorful addition to grain bowls.
- Sweetness: Adjust the honey to taste. If you prefer a slightly sweeter dressing, you can increase the amount of honey by a teaspoon or so.
- Consistency: If the dressing becomes too thick after refrigeration, you can thin it out by adding a little water or more vinegar, depending on your taste preference.
Variations and Serving Suggestions
- Herb Variations: Try adding different herbs like basil, cilantro, or dill for a unique twist.
- Spice it Up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce.
- Citrus Twist: Add a tablespoon of fresh lemon or lime juice for a zesty citrus flavor.
- Salad Ideas: This dressing pairs wonderfully with mixed greens, spinach, arugula, and even coleslaw. It’s also great on roasted vegetables or as a topping for grain salads.
- Marinade Use: Use this dressing as a marinade for grilling vegetables or even tofu. The acidity from the vinegar helps tenderize and infuse flavors.
Health Benefits
- Low Fat: With only 0.2 grams of fat per serving, this dressing is perfect for those looking to reduce their fat intake.
- Low Cholesterol: The absence of cholesterol makes it heart-healthy.
- Low Sodium: Although it contains 337.2mg of sodium, you can reduce the salt content to meet your dietary needs.
- Rich in Antioxidants: Ingredients like garlic, parsley, and paprika are known for their antioxidant properties.
- Versatile: The healthy ingredients make it suitable for various dietary preferences, including vegetarian and low-fat diets.
Pairing Suggestions
- Salads: This dressing complements salads with robust ingredients like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions. Add some nuts or seeds for a bit of crunch.
- Vegetables: Drizzle it over steamed or roasted vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, and carrots for added flavor.
- Grains: Mix it with quinoa, farro, or brown rice for a nutritious and flavorful grain bowl.
- Wraps: Use it as a spread for wraps and sandwiches, particularly with grilled vegetables or lean proteins.
Final Thoughts
Uncle Bill’s Low Fat Dressing is a fantastic recipe to have in your culinary repertoire. It’s not only quick and easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile and healthy. Whether you’re looking to dress a fresh salad, add flavor to grilled vegetables, or create a tangy marinade, this dressing is a go-to option that won’t disappoint. The combination of simple, wholesome ingredients ensures that you can enjoy a flavorful addition to your meals without the guilt of extra calories or unhealthy fats. Enjoy the delightful taste and the health benefits that come with every spoonful!