3-2-1 Dressing – A Simple and Versatile Vegan Salad Dressing Recipe
If you're looking for a quick, healthy, and flavorful salad dressing, the 3-2-1 dressing is the answer. This recipe is as easy as it sounds: three parts vinegar, two parts mustard, and one part maple syrup. You can customize the types of vinegar and mustard to create a variety of flavors, making it a versatile option for any salad or dish.
Adapted from Dr. Esselstyn’s book Prevent and Reverse Heart Disease, this dressing is oil-free, plant-based, and loaded with flavor. It’s an excellent way to add a tangy and slightly sweet touch to your salads without the need for processed ingredients.
Why Make 3-2-1 Dressing?
This dressing is not only simple to make but also incredibly flexible. Whether you prefer apple cider vinegar, balsamic, or champagne vinegar, the choice is yours. The mustard adds a sharp, tangy flavor, while the maple syrup balances everything with a touch of sweetness. Plus, this dressing is oil-free, making it a healthy alternative for those looking to reduce added fats in their diet.
Ingredients
For this dressing, you’ll need:
3 parts vinegar (apple cider vinegar, balsamic, or champagne vinegar)
2 parts mustard (Dijon, spicy brown, or yellow mustard)
1 part maple syrup (or honey/agave for variations)
For example:
3 tbsp vinegar
2 tbsp mustard
1 tbsp maple syrup
Directions
Whisk the Vinegar and Mustard: In a small bowl, whisk together the vinegar and mustard until you form an emulsion.
Add the Sweetener: Slowly whisk in the maple syrup (or your preferred sweetener) until fully combined.
Adjust to Taste: Taste the dressing and adjust the proportions of mustard, vinegar, or syrup to your preference. If you want more tang, add a little extra vinegar, or if you prefer it sweeter, add a touch more maple syrup.
Customizing Your 3-2-1 Dressing
This dressing is incredibly flexible, and you can easily customize it:
Try different vinegars: Use balsamic for a richer flavor, or champagne vinegar for a lighter touch.
Change up the mustard: Swap in Dijon for smoothness or use spicy brown mustard for extra heat.
Sweeten it your way: Maple syrup is great, but you can also try agave for a different type of sweetness.
How to Use 3-2-1 Dressing
This dressing is perfect for:
Salads: Drizzle it over fresh greens, grains, or vegetable salads.
Marinades: Use it as a tangy marinade for tofu or vegetables.
Grain Bowls: Add it to quinoa or rice bowls for extra flavor.
With its balanced combination of tangy, spicy, and sweet flavors, this 3-2-1 dressing is a fantastic go-to for anyone looking for a quick, healthy, and plant-based dressing option. Give it a try and enjoy the endless possibilities!
