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–+ servings
Celery Seed Dressing
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.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course dressings
Cuisine American
Servings 12
Calories 120 kcal

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
Keyword celery seed, classic recipe, homemade dressing, picnic salad, retro recipe, salad dressing, sweet vinaigrette, vintage
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