Salad Dressing

Salad Dressing is a blend of oil, vinegar, and seasoning used with vegetable meals. Salad dressing may also include cream or milk. Dressing is an essential part of any salad. Every vegetable plate is supplemented with at least the basic vinaigrette. Salads are dressed with a pre-made mixture or combined at a table.

Types of Salad Dressing

Salad dressing types vary according to ingredients and the complexity of preparation. Three general types of salad dressing define the majority of salad complements.

Vinaigrette, commonly used dressing, in its basic form is made of olive oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper.
Cream consistence dressings introduce dairy products. The type of dressing includes sour cream based dressings and homemade mayonnaise.
Boiled salad dressing is cream or milk based. Cooked dressings require more complex kitchen equipment since they are prepared by applying heat.

Preparation of Salad Dressing

Vinaigrette is a quick and easy salad dressing. Preparation involves a simple kitchen toolset. A bowl and a whisk are sufficient. Oil-vinegar blend is made by stirring until the mixture is consistent. For larger quantities, ingredients may be combined in a jar and stored in a cool place.

Basic vinaigrette can be prepared on the spot by adding separate dressing ingredients directly to a salad. Oil should be added first and then vinegar when dressing at a table. This way oil remains on vegetables rather than settling on the bottom of a bowl.

Creamy dressing requires more complex preparation technique. The dressing is made by continuously whisking the mixture. In most cases a bowl and a whisk are sufficient. However, mixers or food processors are common in preparation.

Boiled dressing is made by applying temperature. Although the name suggests boiling, a boiled dressing is typically prepared without boiling. Constant 100 °C heat is advised. Cookbooks recommend using double boiler for this purpose. Double boiler is a kitchen appliance that ensures constant temperature and prevents burning.

Preparation procedures differ across types of dressing. Vinaigrette is usually quick and easy. Perhaps this fact determines its widespread application.

Use of Dressing

Each type of dressing suits a particular salad. Garden salad goes well with vinaigrette and sour cream. Boiled and dinner salads are usually soaked in mayonnaise, boiled dressing, or vinaigrette. Dessert salads are served with whipped cream.

The following section presents detailed dressing recipes.