• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
Pinch and Swirl
  • Home
  • Recipes
  • Collections
  • About
  • Free Recipe EBook
  • My Saved Recipes
menu icon
go to homepage
subscribe
search icon
Homepage link
  • Home
  • Recipes
  • Collections
  • About
  • Free Recipe EBook
  • My Saved Recipes
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • YouTube
  • ×
    Recipes » Salad Recipes » Salad Dressing

    Sesame Ginger Dressing

    Published: Sep 18, 2023 by Marissa Stevens · 2 Comments

    Gluten FreeVegetarian

    This post may contain affiliate links.

    Jump to Recipe Jump to Video

    Sesame Ginger Dressing offers a burst of umami, citrus, and sweet flavors, blending into a dressing that's both versatile and tantalizing. Ready in just 10 minutes, this recipe proves that quick preparation doesn't have to sacrifice complexity or taste.

    Sesame Ginger Dressing served in a small glass jar with a golden spoon.

    The combination of fresh lime juice with soy sauce and rice vinegar brings a balanced tanginess. Freshly grated ginger and a hint of garlic infuse the dressing with warmth and depth, while a mix of avocado oil and toasted sesame oil ensures a smooth, luscious texture. With or without the optional toasted sesame seeds, this dressing enhances any Asian-inspired dish.

    Jump to:
    • Ingredients You Need to Make Sesame Ginger Dressing
    • Recipe Options
    • Recipe Tips
    • Versatile Uses Beyond Salad
    • How to Store
    • More Homemade Salad Dressings
    • How to Make Sesame Ginger Dressing
    • Recipe Video
    • Sesame Ginger Dressing
    • 💬 Comments

    Ingredients You Need to Make Sesame Ginger Dressing

    Sesame Ginger Dressing Ingredients on a linen cloth.
    • Rice Vinegar: Also called Rice Wine Vinegar - look for a version with no additives or seasonings.
    • Soy Sauce: Opt for traditional or naturally brewed versions, available in most grocery stores.
    • Fresh Lime Juice: A ripe lime should feel heavy for its size and have a bright, green skin.
    • Honey: Lighter-colored honey typically offers a milder taste, while darker honey is more robust.
    • Fresh Ginger: Choose pieces that are firm and have a spicy aroma.
    • Garlic: Choose a head of garlic with cloves that are tightly closed, and avoid ones with green shoots.
    • Avocado Oil: Choose cold-pressed and unrefined options to preserve nutrients from the avocado.
    • Toasted Sesame Oil: The oil should have a deep, nutty flavor and aroma.
    • Sesame Seeds: Optional, but if you decide to include them, make sure they're toasted for the best flavor.

    Recipe Options

    • Swap unseasoned rice vinegar with apple cider vinegar for a slightly different tangy kick.
    • Replace soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free or soy-free alternative.
    • Use agave nectar or maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan version.
    • Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy twist.
    • Incorporate a teaspoon of miso paste for deeper, umami flavor.
    Sesame Ginger Dressing served in a small glass jar.

    Recipe Tips

    • Whisking Technique: Consistency is key. Add the oils in a slow, steady stream while whisking constantly to achieve a smooth, emulsified texture.
    • Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh lime juice and freshly grated ginger for the most vibrant tastes. Avoid bottled or pre-packaged alternatives.
    • Taste Test: Always taste after mixing to adjust seasonings. Keep in mind that flavors meld over time, especially if stored for a few hours before serving.

    Versatile Uses Beyond Salad

    While this dressing pairs exceptionally well with dishes like Ahi Tuna Salad, its versatility extends far beyond leafy greens.

    • Marinade: Marinate chicken, fish, or tofu for at least 30 minutes before grilling or baking.
    • Dipping Sauce: Serve it as a dipping sauce alongside spring rolls, sushi, Grilled Tuna Steaks or dumplings.
    • Stir-Fry: Add the dressing to your favorite stir-fried vegetables or noodles for an instant flavor boost.
    • Grain Bowls: Drizzle it over rice, quinoa, or farro bowls to bring all the elements together.

    How to Store

    Store the dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to a week. Shake well or whisk before using to recombine any separated ingredients.

    More Homemade Salad Dressings

    • White Balsamic Vinaigrette
    • Champagne Vinaigrette
    • Jalapeño Ranch Dressing
    • French Vinaigrette

    How to Make Sesame Ginger Dressing

    By Hand: In a bowl, mix rice vinegar, soy sauce, lime juice, honey, ginger, and garlic. Gradually whisk in avocado oil and sesame oil until well combined.

    salad dressing ingredients in a glass bowl.
    salad dressing in a bowl ready to serve.
    Sesame Ginger Dressing served in a small glass jar.

    Blender: Combine the first set of ingredients in a blender; blend smoothly. While blending, slowly add the oils until the mixture emulsifies.

    Finish: If using sesame seeds, stir them in. Chill before serving.

    Recipe Video

    SUBSCRIBE TO VIDEOS

    Sesame Ginger Dressing served in a small glass jar with a golden spoon.

    Sesame Ginger Dressing

    Marissa Stevens
    Bright citrus, warm spices, and a silky texture come together in a versatile dressing that's ready in just 10 minutes.
    5 from 1 vote
    Save Recipe Saved! Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Prep Time 10 minutes mins
    Total Time 10 minutes mins
    Course Condiment
    Cuisine Asian
    Servings 8 people
    Calories 136 kcal
    Prevent your screen from going dark

    Ingredients
      

    • 2 tablespoons unseasoned rice vinegar
    • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
    • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice from about 1 lime
    • 2 tablespoons honey
    • 1 tablespoon finely grated fresh ginger
    • 1 small garlic clove minced
    • ⅓ cup avocado oil or other neutrally flavored oil
    • 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
    • 2 teaspoons toasted sesame seeds optional

    Instructions
     

    To Make by Hand

    • In a medium bowl, whisk rice vinegar, soy sauce, lime juice, honey, ginger and garlic together in a medium bowl until smooth. Add avocado oil then toasted sesame oil in slow streams, whisking constantly until emulsified.

    Blender Instructions

    • To a blender pitcher add rice vinegar, soy sauce, lime juice, honey, ginger and garlic; blend until smooth. With blender running, add avocado oil and toasted sesame oil in slow, steady streams; blending until emulsified.
    • Transfer to serving pitcher and stir in toasted sesame seeds if desired. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

    Notes

    • Makes about 1 cup (16 tablespoons).

    Nutrition

    Calories: 136kcalCarbohydrates: 5gProtein: 1gFat: 13gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gSodium: 252mgPotassium: 24mgFiber: 0.1gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 2IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 8mgIron: 0.2mg
    Tried this recipe?I'd love to see it! Tag me on Instagram at @pinchandswirl or leave me a comment and rating below.

    More Salad Dressing

    • White Balsamic Vinaigrette served in a small glass jar.
      White Balsamic Vinaigrette
    • Cilantro Lime Vinaigrette in a clear glass container on a wooden board.
      Cilantro Lime Vinaigrette
    • Strawberry Vinaigrette in a clear glass pitcher
      Strawberry Vinaigrette
    • French Vinaigrette served in a small carafe with a green salad behind.
      French Vinaigrette

    Reader Interactions

    Comments

      Leave a Comment Cancel reply

      Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

      Recipe Rating




    1. David @ Spiced says

      September 19, 2023 at 4:40 am

      5 stars
      Salad dressings are one of those things that are insanely easy to make at home, but they sound so fancy when you say "homemade salad dressing." This one sounds fantastic, and I know Laura would go crazy over it with that ginger in there!

      Reply
      • Marissa Stevens says

        September 19, 2023 at 4:30 pm

        I'm so glad to hear that, David! Thank you.

        Reply

    Primary Sidebar

    The best food happens at home. I love delicious food prepared simply with fresh ingredients and that’s just what you’ll find here! You can count on me for well tested, mouthwatering recipes designed for home cooks. Learn more →

    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • YouTube
    • Facebook
    12 Recipes to Know by Heart Book Cover
    Subscribe for Free E-Cookbook

    Reader Favorites

    • Oven Roasted Crispy Pork Belly
    • lemon garlic pasta served in a white bowl
      Lemon Garlic Pasta
    • Carne-Asada thinly sliced across the grain featured
      Carne Asada Recipe
    • Shrimp Tacos served on a white oval platter with extra sauce on the side.
      Shrimp Tacos
    • Bacon Wrapped Scallops
    • Creamy Tomato Bisque
      Tomato Bisque
    • Mashed Red Potatoes photographed from above featured
      Mashed Red Potatoes
    • Grilled Lamb Chops
    • Crispy Baked Buffalo Wings
    • Rice Cooker Mexican Rice served in a gray ceramic bowl and photographed from above.
      Rice Cooker Mexican Rice

    Footer

    ↑ back to top

    About

    • Privacy Policy
    • Terms & Conditions

    Newsletter

    • Sign Up!

    Contact

    • Meet Marissa
    • Contact

    Copyright © 2022 PinchandSwirl

    • Facebook
    • Pinterest
    • Email