As a food enthusiast and a registered dietitian, I have a deep appreciation for dressings – they can elevate any meal from average to exceptional. Recently, I stumbled upon a dressing that captured my heart and taste buds: Nobu Matsuhisa Salad Dressing.
Inspired by the renowned chef Nobu Matsuhisa, this dressing perfectly balances flavors and brings a unique flair to salads.
Today, I’m excited to share my adventure into recreating this dressing, along with tips, variations, and everything you must know to make it shine in your kitchen.
What is Nobu Matsuhisa Salad Dressing?
At its core, Nobu Matsuhisa Salad Dressing is an exquisite blend of Eastern and Western flavors. Nobu Matsuhisa, a Japanese chef who has risen to global fame, is celebrated for his innovative take on traditional Japanese cuisine.
His salad dressing reflects that philosophy. The use of tamari, sesame oil, and apple cider vinegar creates a delightful symphony of umami, tang, and sweetness.
While many dressings rely on heavy creams or excessive oils, this dressing is fresh and light. It becomes an ingredient that enhances rather than overwhelms. With the right balance of salty and sweet, this dressing complements a vast variety of salads and ingredients.
Why You’ll Love This Nobu Matsuhisa Salad Dressing?
Let me tell you, once you try this dressing, it may become your new go-to for salads. Its versatility is impressive. Whether you’re tossing a simple green salad, drizzling it over roasted veggies, or serving it with grilled chicken, its complex flavors enhance every bite.
Moreover, this dressing is simple to make and can easily be stored in your refrigerator. The flavors actually improve over time as they mingle. Plus, it’s a healthier option compared to store-bought dressings, packed with wholesome ingredients that you can feel good about.
The Ingredients
Before diving into the preparation, here’s what you will need:
- 3 tablespoons tamari sauce
- 4 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 teaspoons filtered water
- 4 teaspoons avocado oil
- 3/4 cup finely minced onion
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 small pinch of flaky sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cane sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground mustard
Step by Step Instructions
Getting this dressing together is straightforward. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delightfully delicious dressing in no time.
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
First, round up all the ingredients mentioned above. Having everything at your fingertips makes the process smooth and enjoyable. There’s nothing worse than forgetting an essential ingredient halfway through.
Step 2: Prepare the Onion
Finely mince the onion. This may take a few minutes, but it’s worth it. The onion adds crunchiness and a burst of flavor, so don’t skimp on this step.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a bowl, whisk together the tamari sauce, toasted sesame oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, avocado oil, and filtered water. Make sure everything blends beautifully. The goal is a well-mixed liquid that forms the base of your dressing.
Step 4: Add and Mix the Dry Ingredients
To the bowl, add the minced onion, freshly cracked black pepper, flaky sea salt, cane sugar, and ground mustard. Stir until all ingredients are well combined. At this point, the colors should start to blend nicely, creating an appetizing mixture.
Step 5: Adjust Consistency and Flavor
Taste your dressing. If it feels too thick, you can add a bit more water. If you prefer more sweetness, feel free to add a touch more honey. This is the fun part; you get to make it your own.
Step 6: Store the Dressing
Transfer the dressing into a clean jar or container with a lid. Store it in the refrigerator. Letting it sit for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Tips & Tricks
Here are some handy tips to take your Nobu Matsuhisa salad dressing to the next level:
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh onions and high-quality oils make a noticeable difference.
- Experiment with ratios: Depending on your taste, adjust the sweetness and acidity.
- Let it marinate: Allowing the dressing to sit for several hours enhances its flavors distinctly.
- Shake before use: The ingredients may separate as it sits, so just give it a good shake before you pour it onto your salad.
- Try with different salads: Don’t limit yourself! This dressing works well with various greens and toppings, including nuts, seeds, or proteins.
Can I Store Nobu Matsuhisa Salad Dressing?
Absolutely! This dressing can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about one week. The flavors only get better as they marinate over time. Just remember to shake it up before using it to redistribute any settled ingredients.
What Can I Serve with Nobu Matsuhisa Salad Dressing?
I love versatility. This dressing complements many dishes:
- Fresh Salads: Toss it with mixed greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes for a refreshing dish.
- Grilled Vegetables: Drizzle it over grilled zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus for a flavor boost.
- Grains: Use it on quinoa or rice bowls topped with roasted chickpeas and avocado.
- Chilled Noodle Dishes: Add it to soba noodles with julienned veggies for a light meal.
- Marinade for Proteins: Brush it on chicken or tofu before grilling for an extra kick of flavor.
Variations
While the original recipe is a winner, why not get creative? Here are some variations you can try:
- Citrus Twist: Replace apple cider vinegar with fresh lemon juice and add a teaspoon of zest for a brighter flavor.
- Creamy Variation: For a creamy dressing, mix in a couple of tablespoons of Greek yogurt or tahini. It creates a delightful texture!
- Spicy Kick: If you like some heat, add a pinch of chili flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the mixture. This makes for a zesty surprise.
- Herb Infusion: Blend in finely chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for a fresh herbal note.
- Extra Sweetness: For those with a sweet tooth, replace honey with maple syrup for an alternative sweetness that’s equally delightful.
Nobu Matsuhisa Salad Dressing Recipe
Equipment
- Whisk
- Bowl
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons tamari sauce
- 4 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 teaspoons filtered water
- 4 teaspoons avocado oil
- 3/4 cup finely minced onion
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 small pinch of flaky sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cane sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground mustard
Instructions
- First, round up all the ingredients mentioned above. Having everything at your fingertips makes the process smooth and enjoyable. There’s nothing worse than forgetting an essential ingredient halfway through.
- Finely mince the onion. This may take a few minutes, but it’s worth it. The onion adds crunchiness and a burst of flavor, so don’t skimp on this step.
- In a bowl, whisk together the tamari sauce, toasted sesame oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, avocado oil, and filtered water. Make sure everything blends beautifully. The goal is a well-mixed liquid that forms the base of your dressing.
- To the bowl, add the minced onion, freshly cracked black pepper, flaky sea salt, cane sugar, and ground mustard. Stir until all ingredients are well combined. At this point, the colors should start to blend nicely, creating an appetizing mixture.
- Taste your dressing. If it feels too thick, you can add a bit more water. If you prefer more sweetness, feel free to add a touch more honey. This is the fun part; you get to make it your own.
- Transfer the dressing into a clean jar or container with a lid. Store it in the refrigerator. Letting it sit for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Notes
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh onions and high-quality oils make a noticeable difference.
- Experiment with ratios: Depending on your taste, adjust the sweetness and acidity.
- Let it marinate: Allowing the dressing to sit for several hours enhances its flavors distinctly.
- Shake before use: The ingredients may separate as it sits, so just give it a good shake before you pour it onto your salad.
- Try with different salads: Don’t limit yourself! This dressing works well with various greens and toppings, including nuts, seeds, or proteins.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
Now you’ve got the inside scoop on Nobu Matsuhisa Salad Dressing. With its unique blend of flavors and easy preparation, it’s bound to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Whether you stick to the classic recipe or add your personal flair, this dressing holds the power to elevate your meals. Happy dressing! Enjoy shaking things up in your kitchen.
