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Pesto Salad Dressing

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Pesto Salad Dressing is a fresh, herb-packed dressing made with basil pesto, olive oil, lemon juice, and simple seasonings. It comes together in minutes and adds vibrant Italian-inspired flavor to salads, grain bowls, pasta salads, and roasted vegetables.

Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup basil pesto
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 2 to 3 tablespoons water, as needed
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. Add the basil pesto, olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey or maple syrup, garlic, salt, and black pepper to a small bowl or jar.
  2. Whisk the ingredients until smooth, or shake them together in a tightly sealed jar.
  3. Add the water a little at a time until the dressing reaches the desired consistency.
  4. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more lemon juice, salt, or pepper if needed.
  5. Drizzle over fresh salads, grain bowls, roasted vegetables, or pasta salads just before serving.

Notes

  • Use lime juice instead of lemon juice for a citrus twist.
  • Substitute balsamic vinegar for red wine vinegar for a slightly sweeter flavor.
  • Stir in Greek yogurt for a creamier dressing.
  • Add grated Parmesan cheese for extra richness.
  • Mix in a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for gentle heat.
  • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Shake or whisk before serving and thin with water or olive oil if needed.

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