Healthier, tangy Western dressing with natural sweetness.

This healthier homemade Western Salad Dressing is a tangy and slightly sweet alternative to store-bought versions. Made with tomato sauce, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, and a touch of honey for sweetness, it eliminates the refined sugars and unhealthy oils typically found in commercial dressings. Simple spices like garlic powder, onion powder, and Dijon mustard add depth to the flavor, while smoked paprika provides a smoky twist. This dressing can be made in minutes and is perfect for salads or as a dipping sauce. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week, shaking before use.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup tomato sauce (no sugar added)
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup olive oil (or avocado oil)
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (for natural sweetness)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. In a bowl or blender, combine the tomato sauce, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, honey (or maple syrup), Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
2. Whisk or blend until the dressing is smooth and well mixed.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
4. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Shake or stir before using.

This version replaces processed sugars and refined oils with healthier alternatives like honey and olive oil, making it a cleaner option for salads or as a dipping sauce.