Celery Seed Dressing is a classic, tangy-sweet homemade salad dressing that became popular in mid-century American kitchens. Its balance of sugar, vinegar, and oil makes it versatile for coleslaws, garden salads, and fruit-based dishes. The addition of celery seed gives it a distinctive earthy flavor and subtle crunch, while dry mustard adds a gentle tanginess. This dressing is typically made in advance to allow the flavors to meld, making it an ideal make-ahead recipe for picnics, potlucks, and everyday meals.
Ingredients
- ½ cup sugar
- 2 tbsp onion (grate, optional)
- ½ tsp dry mustard
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup salad oil (Burton or Wesson suggested)
- ⅓ cup vinegar (Heinz recommended)
- 1 tsp celery seed
Instructions
Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients
- In a deep bowl or blender, mix sugar, grated onion (if using), dry mustard, and salt.
Step 2: Incorporate Oil and Vinegar
- Slowly add half of the vinegar and salad oil in small amounts at a time.
- Beat thoroughly to emulsify.
Step 3: Finish Dressing
- Continue adding the remaining oil and vinegar gradually while whisking until fully blended.
Step 4: Add Celery Seed
- Stir in celery seed and mix very well.
Step 5: Chill
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Tips
- Use a blender for an especially smooth, emulsified dressing.
- For a lighter version, replace part of the oil with water and shake just before serving.
- Substitute apple cider vinegar for a fruitier, softer tartness.
- Add a teaspoon of poppy seeds for texture and a classic “poppy seed–style” twist.
- Use honey instead of sugar for a softer sweetness (note: changes flavor and nutrition).
- Reduce sugar for a less sweet, more tangy dressing.
- Omit grated onion if preferred, as suggested on the card; or use shallot for milder flavor.
- Store in the refrigerator in a jar and shake before serving to re-emulsify.
- Delicious on cabbage slaws, fruit salads, and leafy green salads
Nutrition
Calories: 120kcalCarbohydrates: 6gFat: 11gSaturated Fat: 1.5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 8gMonounsaturated Fat: 3.3gSodium: 75mgPotassium: 8mgSugar: 6gVitamin A: 5IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 0.1mg
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