For many, the dressing is the key ingredient that can make or break a salad! Did you know how easy it is to make salad dressings at home? The most basic formula for making any salad vinaigrette is one part vinegar or any other acid mixed with three to four parts oil. For instance, you could use one tablespoon of cider vinegar and three tablespoons of olive oil. Or you could make a big batch of dressing and use 1/4 cup of vinegar mixed with 3/4 cups olive oil. That’s it!

So, the next time you plan to put together a salad, skip the store-bought stuff and try making some of these easy yet super delicious dressings.

French vinaigrette

This classic dressing is very easy to make at home and can be stored for weeks! All you need is Dijon mustard, red or white wine vinegar and olive oil. You can also add chopped onions, sea salt, herbs, black pepper powder or dried chilli flakes for more flavour. Pour the mustard, vinegar and olive oil in a jar and season. Shake vigorously to mix. Store in a cool place until ready to use. Use it for all your salads!

Tomato vinaigrette

Simple, bright flavours, derived from tomato and often paprika, are the key to this vinaigrette. Toss it with tender, leafy greens and serve as a light side salad. You will need some Dijon mustard, a generous pinch of salt, lemon juice, extra-virgin olive oil, some paprika and tomato puree or fresh tomato paste. Whisk these ingredients together, season with salt and store in a screw-top jar. Shake well before using.

Asian vinaigrette

This vinaigrette brings together three of the most essential ingredients in Asian cuisine: aromatic sesame oil, soy sauce, and tangy rice vinegar. Whisk these with freshly grated ginger, minced garlic, a dash of Sriracha, and some freshly ground black pepper, to taste. Transfer the dressing to a glass bowl and leave it aside for 30 minutes to let the flavours infuse. This mixture also works very well as a marinade or seasoning for other recipes.

Honey mustard dressing

This sweet and tangy mustard-based dressing can be also used as a dipping sauce or marinade for chicken. You will need some Dijon mustard (or kasundi for a local touch), honey, apple cider vinegar or lemon juice, some minced garlic, extra virgin olive oil and salt and pepper for seasoning. Whisk all the ingredients well and store in a jar in the refrigerator. This sweet-spicy and tangy dressing goes well with just about everything. Pair it with avocado, broccoli, fresh greens, cabbage, apples, goat cheese, and sunflower seeds or almonds.

Thousand island dressing

For this classic sweet and tangy dressing you will need some mayonnaise, ketchup, lemon juice, paprika, salt and pepper for seasoning and a dash of mustard if you like. Combine the ingredients in a small mixing bowl and whisk well.

Ranch dressing

Make your own homemade ranch dressing and drizzle it over salads, pizzas or use it as a dipping sauce. This creamy dressing is super fresh and adds loads of flavour to everything. You will need sour cream (the base of this dressing), buttermilk (not chaas), a dash of mayonnaise, fresh herbs (parsley and fresh dill work the best!) lemon juice, garlic, salt and pepper. Whisk the ingredients well in a mixing bowl and use it immediately.

What are some popular dressings you like to make? Let us know in the comments.