Lemon Herb Yogurt Dressing
LivFarms' Lemon Herb Yogurt Dressing is a creamy, refreshing blend that combines the tangy brightness of fresh lemon juice with the rich smoothness of Greek yogurt. Olive oil adds a subtle fruity depth, enhancing the dressing's overall mouthfeel. Fresh basil and parsley bring a burst of herbaceous freshness, with basil offering sweet, peppery notes and parsley contributing a clean, slightly bitter edge. This harmonious mix of flavors creates a dressing that is both invigorating and soothing, perfect for dressing salads during any season. This dressing's light yet creamy texture makes it a superb match for LivFarms’ Green Leaf lettuce. To build a complementary salad, consider adding thinly sliced cucumber for extra crunch, ripe cherry tomatoes for a touch of sweetness, and avocado slices for their creamy texture. A sprinkle of crumbled feta or goat cheese could add a lovely tangy contrast.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup greek yogurt, plain
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine ½ cup plain Greek yogurt, 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, and 2 tablespoons olive oil.
- Add 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil and 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley to the mixture.
- Season the dressing with salt and pepper according to your taste.
- Whisk the ingredients together until the dressing is smooth and well incorporated.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to develop.
Notes
Basil, particularly fresh basil, is a wonderful addition to salads and dressings. Its flavor profile is sweet, yet slightly peppery with hints of mint, anise, and clove. When used in a salad dressing, especially one that includes Greek yogurt and lemon juice, basil imparts a refreshing and slightly sweet taste, complementing the tanginess of the yogurt and the citrusy zest of the lemon. For a salad dressing using LivFarms lettuce, which is known for its crisp and fresh quality, finely chopping the basil will distribute its flavor more evenly. You might consider blending basil with the yogurt and lemon juice to create a smooth, herb-infused dressing. This would pair exceptionally well with a variety of salad ingredients, from tomatoes and cucumbers to more robust flavors like olives and feta cheese.
Basil is not only flavorful but also nutritionally beneficial. It is low in calories and contains a good number of vitamins and minerals. Vitamins such as vitamin K, which is essential for blood clotting, and vitamin A, important for eye health and immune function, are present in significant amounts. Basil also provides a modest amount of iron, calcium, and manganese. Adding fresh basil to your salad dressing can contribute to your daily intake of these essential nutrients, making it a healthy as well as a flavorful choice.
The health benefits of consuming basil are noteworthy. It contains compounds like flavonoids and essential oils that have antioxidant properties. These antioxidants help in fighting free radicals in the body, potentially reducing oxidative stress and the risk of chronic diseases. Basil has also been traditionally used for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Some studies suggest that the essential oils in basil, such as eugenol, may help lower inflammation and may even have anti-cancer properties. Additionally, the herb has a long history in herbal medicine for aiding in digestion and promoting gut health. Including basil in your diet, therefore, not only adds flavor but also contributes to overall well-being.
