How to Make a Creamy Turmeric Salad Dressing
Published: January 2022
This gluten-free turmeric dressing is creamy and packed with flavor. Not only that, but because the curcumin that’s in turmeric supports a healthy inflammatory response, this easy-to-make salad dressing is JUST what you need to add to your salad bowl.
What is turmeric?
Turmeric (Curcuma longa) is a plant that is related to ginger; both are part of the Zingiberaceae family. Turmeric and ginger root are used in cooking and also can be taken as dietary supplements.
So, is turmeric really good? Yes! Because of curcumin, studies indicate that turmeric spice is good for brain, heart and immune health, as well as joint health.
The easiest way to add turmeric to your diet is to sprinkle a bit on all your savory dishes or even add it to your daily smoothie! Turmeric is an awesome addition to soups, especially vegetable or cream soups. You can even try it as a “golden milk” latte!
What does turmeric taste like?
Turmeric is usually sold in a dried ground form, but sometimes can be found raw. When it is raw, turmeric can look like fresh ginger. It is also extremely potent and will stain anything it touches.
Turmeric has an earthy, slightly peppery flavor that mixes with other herbs and spices. Thus, you will find it in a lot in Indian curries.
What is turmeric dressing?
Turmeric dressing is pretty much like any other dressing you would add to a salad for more health benefits. It can be thick and creamy or however you want.
You can drizzle this easy and versatile turmeric dressing over leafy greens such as spinach, mixed lettuce, arugula, or even over broccoli. Serve it with a grain bowl or spoon it over roasted veggies. The options are endless.
P.S. Adding black pepper to your recipe makes the active ingredient in turmeric up to 2000% more bioavailable.
How to make a creamy turmeric salad dressing
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (or non-dairy alternative)
- 1 tbsp California Estate Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 4 tsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp turmeric (about 4-5 capsules)
- 1-2 tsp fresh grated ginger
- 1 clove of garlic
- 1 tbsp organic raw honey
- 2-3 tbsp almond milk to thin it out
- Salt + pepper to taste
Luckily for you, this salad dressing is super simple to whip up and can even be stored in your fridge to use for later. Here’s how you can get started on your own healthy dressing.
Directions
- Combine all ingredients in a small blender or medium bowl and mix until combined and smooth.
- Store in a covered container in the fridge for up to 10 days if you use dry ingredients. If all of your herbs are fresh, try to consume your dressing within five days.
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4 turmeric health benefits
You may have heard that turmeric is a “superfood.” Here is what the root has to offer:
Brain health—
Curcumin can benefit your mind. Studies suggest that curcumin supports healthy brain function and offers neuro-protective benefits.Promoting already-healthy blood sugar levels—
New research suggests that this magic golden spice can help support already-healthy glucose levels, making curcumin a good choice for those who want to maintain already-healthy blood sugar.Metabolic health—
Evidence suggests that curcumin helps promote healthy bowel function. Curcumin also supports healthy pancreatic function.Cellular support—
Provides powerful cellular protection against free radicals.The truth about turmeric: Frequently Asked Questions:
Q. Does turmeric stain your teeth?
A. Turmeric does have an intense yellow color, but you would need to eat and drink it regularly for it to stain your teeth!
Q. What are the benefits of turmeric for oral health?
It has several! One study concludes that curcuma gel helps keep your gums healthy. Other studies suggest it helps support oral health.
Q. Can you get enough turmeric from food?
It may be difficult to include turmeric in every meal. One of the easiest ways to add it to your diet is to start taking curcumin supplements. You should be very picky when choosing a curcumin supplement because not all formulas are equally effective—some simply are more bioavailable than others. The more curcuminoids you absorb, the greater benefits for your health
Q. How else can you consume turmeric?
A. If you are having a hard time adding it to your foods or do not like the flavor of it, you can always take turmeric supplements. Our Curcumin Elite™ Turmeric Extract gives you the maximum health benefits that come with turmeric.
References:
- Chainani-Wu, Nita. “Safety and anti-inflammatory activity of curcumin: a component of turmeric (Cucuma longa).” J Altern Complement Med., February 2003, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12676044/
- Farjana, H Nilofer et al. “Effect of Oral Curcuma Gel in Gingivitis Management—A Pilot Study.” J Clin Diagn Res., December 2014, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4316326/
- Goodson, Amy, MS, RD, CSSD, LD. “Why Turmeric and Black pepper Is a Powerful Combination.” Healthline, July 2018, https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/turmeric-and-black-pepper
- Hewlings, Susan J. et al. “Curcumin: A Review of Its Effects on Human Health.” Foods, October 2017, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5664031/
- Sharifi-Rad, Javad et al. “Turmeric and Its Major Compound Curcumin on Health: Bioactive Effects and Safety Profiles for Food, Pharmaceutical, Biotechnological and Medicinal Applications.” Front Pharmacol, September 2020, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33041781/
- “Natural Teeth Whitening: Fact vs. Fiction.” MouthHealthy, https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/w/natural-teeth-whitening