Include in Print View:

Sesame Ginger Vinaigrette

Natural herb-infused oil displayed in a glass bottle on a wooden table with seeds, bowls, and soft sunlight in a cozy kitchen setting

Savory, slightly sweet, and full of warm spice, sesame ginger vinaigrette adds bold, Asian-inspired flavor to salads, noodle bowls, slaws, grilled chicken, and roasted vegetables. Its balance of nuttiness and fresh ginger makes it a standout dressing for everyday meals or meal prep.

Equipment Needed

  • Small mixing bowl or jar
  • Whisk or fork
  • Measuring spoons

Tips & Variations

  • Shake in a jar for fast mixing and easy storage.
  • Fresh ginger delivers the brightest flavor.
  • Adjust sweetness or saltiness to suit your taste.
  • Add a splash of citrus for extra brightness.
  • Use as a light marinade or drizzle over grain bowls.
Prep Time 10 mins
Total Time 10 mins
Cuisine:
Courses:
Difficulty: Beginner
Servings: 4
Estimated Cost: 5
Calories: 120 kcal
Best Season: Suitable throughout the year
Description

This sesame ginger vinaigrette is a vibrant, tangy dressing that elevates your salads and grilled vegetables with its perfect balance of flavors.

Ingredients
    Ingredients for Sesame Ginger Vinaigrette
  • 1 cup olive oil (Use extra virgin for a richer flavor.)
  • 1/4 cup rice vinegar (This adds a nice tang; feel free to substitute with apple cider vinegar.)
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (Use low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness.)
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil (This adds a nutty aroma; a little goes a long way.)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger (Grate it fresh for the best flavor.)
  • 1 teaspoon honey (Adjust based on your sweetness preference.)
  • 1 clove garlic (Minced or grated for more intensity.)
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (Optional, for a little heat.)
  • salt to taste salt (Use sea salt for a gourmet touch.)
  • pepper to taste black pepper (Freshly ground is best.)
Instructions
    Gather Your Ingredients
  1. 1
    Measure the Base IngredientsStart by measuring out 1/4 cup of rice vinegar, 1/4 cup of soy sauce, and 1 tablespoon of sesame oil. These will form the flavorful base of your vinaigrette.
    Using a light soy sauce can keep it from being too salty, and feel free to use tamari for a gluten-free version.
  2. 2
    Prepare the Fresh ElementsGrate a 1-inch piece of fresh ginger and mince 1 clove of garlic. These fresh ingredients will add a punch of flavor that's hard to beat.
    Make sure your ginger is fresh—if it’s dried or powdered, it won’t have the same vibrant kick!
  3. 3
    Get Your Sweetness RightAdd 1 tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to balance out the tanginess of the vinegar and soy sauce.
    Taste as you go; you can always add more sweetener if you prefer a sweeter vinaigrette.
    4. Whisk It All Together
  4. 4
    Combine IngredientsIn a mixing bowl, combine the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, grated ginger, minced garlic, and honey or maple syrup.
    Using a whisk helps to emulsify the ingredients, making the vinaigrette creamy and cohesive.
  5. 5
    Emulsify for Perfect TextureAs you whisk, slowly drizzle in 1/4 cup of vegetable oil or avocado oil to emulsify the vinaigrette. This will give it a lovely, silky texture.
    You can adjust the oil amount depending on how rich you want your vinaigrette. Less oil will yield a tangier dressing.
    6. Taste and Adjust
  6. 6
    Final Seasoning CheckGive your vinaigrette a taste and adjust the seasoning. You might want to add a pinch of salt or pepper, or more honey if it needs sweetness.
    The flavors will meld together as it sits, so keep that in mind; it might taste a bit different after a few hours in the fridge.
    7. Store and Serve
  7. 7
    Bottle It UpTransfer the vinaigrette into a clean jar or bottle. Seal tightly and give it a good shake before serving.
    It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Just shake it up before each use as the ingredients may separate.
  8. 8
    Perfect PairingsThis vinaigrette is perfect for drizzling over salads, grilled veggies, or even as a marinade for chicken or tofu.
    Try it on a mixed greens salad topped with avocado and sesame seeds for a delicious treat!
Note
  • Use freshly grated ginger for a vibrant flavor; powdered ginger can be a substitute but lacks freshness.
  • Toast sesame seeds for added depth and a nutty aroma; be careful not to burn them.
  • Adjust the sweetness by varying the honey or maple syrup according to your taste preference.
  • For a creamier version, whisk in a tablespoon of tahini or Greek yogurt.
  • This vinaigrette pairs beautifully with mixed greens, grilled chicken, or roasted vegetables.
  • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week; shake well before using as ingredients may separate.
  • Consider adding a splash of soy sauce for an umami boost or a dash of sriracha for a spicy kick.
  • If you prefer a more tangy profile, increase the rice vinegar or add a squeeze of fresh lime juice.
Keywords: vinaigrette, sesame, ginger, dressing, salad
Read it online: https://bestrecipesblog.com/recipe/sesame-ginger-vinaigrette/