Refreshing, zesty, and delightfully simple, this cucumber dill salad dressing is a perfect addition to your healthy eating repertoire. Whether you're looking to add some zest to your salads or seeking a low-calorie alternative to store-bought dressings, this vegan-friendly recipe promises to invigorate your meals with its bright flavors. Made with just a handful of ingredients, it’s an ideal choice for anyone following a health-conscious diet.
Ingredients:
- 1 large cucumber, peeled and chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: A tablespoon of tahini for creaminess (add more calories)
Instructions:
Blend the Ingredients: In a blender, combine the chopped cucumber, fresh dill, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, and minced garlic. Blend until smooth.
Season: Add salt and pepper to taste. If you're using tahini, blend it in now until the mixture is creamy and smooth.
Chill: Refrigerate the dressing for at least an hour to let the flavors meld together.
Serve: Stir well before drizzling over your favorite salads. This dressing pairs wonderfully with leafy greens or a simple vegetable salad.
Calorie Estimate:
The total calorie content of the cucumber dill salad dressing (without tahini) is approximately 68 calories for the entire batch. If you add a tablespoon of tahini for extra creaminess, it will add approximately 89 calories, bringing the total to about 157 calories for the batch. This makes it a very low-calorie option, especially when spread over multiple servings!
Nutritional Benefits:
Low-Calorie Content: This dressing is ideal for weight management as it's low in calories, making it a great option for those trying to maintain or reduce their calorie intake without sacrificing flavor.
Hydration: Cucumbers are high in water content, which helps hydrate the body. This is especially beneficial in a dressing, as it adds moisture to dishes without extra fats or oils.
Antioxidants: Cucumbers and dill both contain antioxidants. Antioxidants are vital for fighting off oxidative stress caused by free radicals, potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
Vitamin C: Lemon juice is rich in vitamin C, which is essential for immune system function and collagen production, and it also serves as an antioxidant.
Digestive Health: Apple cider vinegar and lemon juice can help improve digestion. The acetic acid in vinegar has been shown to aid in digestion by increasing the acidity of the stomach.
Heart Health: Garlic has been widely recognized for its cardiovascular benefits, including its ability to help lower blood pressure and improve cholesterol levels.
Anti-inflammatory Properties: Many of the ingredients, like garlic and dill, offer anti-inflammatory benefits that can help reduce inflammation in the body, potentially lowering the risk of certain inflammatory diseases.
This dressing not only enhances the flavor of your dishes but also packs a nutritional punch that supports overall health. Enjoy it, knowing you’re giving your body beneficial nutrients with every bite!
You will delight in the crisp, fresh taste of this cucumber dill salad dressing on your favorite salads or as a dip for vegetables. Its light and tangy flavor profile makes it a versatile condiment that can enhance any meal without adding excess calories. Remember, good things come to those who wait, so allow this dressing to chill and the flavors to meld together for the best experience. Happy healthy eating!
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