Dips and dressings are fantastic ways to add extra flavor to otherwise bland dishes typically containing fruits and vegetables. My best friend, Marcela, inspired me to share some of my favorites. 

I like this salad dressing because it’s very fresh and light. It also leaves a great after taste!

Refreshing Mint & Honey Dressing:

• 2 tablespoons honey
• 3-4 tablespoons cider vinegar (Depending on your taste for tang, I like 4 tbls)
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint
• salt & pepper (to taste)

Combine ingredients in blender. Puree together until smooth. Ready to serve. Yields about 4 servings.

Many people have a weakness for Chinese food. Sometimes it’s too overwhelming to deny. So I give in, often. This is a healthy way to curve your craving without over indulging.

Soy Sauce Dressing:

• 3/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 clove minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon gingerroot (or ground ginger)
• salt & pepper (to taste)

Combine ingredients in blender (or stir together until well blended). You can pour over mixed field greens, use as a stir fry sauce, or as a dressing for cold Chinese cabbage salad.

Why is it always easier to enjoy the fruit platter at a party rather than enjoy it on a somewhat less glamorous plate at home? The answer is dip and presentation, of course. My favorite dip for fresh fruit is juice flavored yogurt drizzle. It tricks your mind into thinking that you’re enjoying a special treat from a quaint bed and breakfast that cannot be replicated. Believe me; this dip lives up to the hype.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon pineapple juice (or pineapple soda)
• 1 teaspoon lime juice
• 1 tablespoon flower honey
• 1 cup organic vanilla yogurt

Stir together with a spoon and combine with your choice of fresh fruit. I like to sprinkle sliced almonds on top for an added crunch. I hope these dips and dressings make it easier for you and your loved ones to enjoy fruits and veggies!

Quick tip: Infused oil is an easy and delicious way to add a base flavor to a side dish or an appetizer. My favorite infused oil is extra virgin olive oil infused with lemon peel, garlic, and red pepper flakes. All you need to do is gently heat the oil, garlic, lemon peel, and pepper flakes to just below a simmer. Once the garlic begins to wilt, remove from heat, strain, and let cool. Poor into dish and serve with fresh crusty bread; another combination I love is thyme and garlic infused oil.

Enjoy!

Related posts:

1. Behind the Taste: An Italian Melodrama