Miso ginger dressing comprises umami-rich miso paste and zesty ginger, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that elevates ordinary salads to extraordinary culinary experiences. This versatile condiment originates from Japanese cuisine but has gained popularity in global gastronomy due to its complex flavor profile and health benefits.

Miso ginger dressing recipe

This Japanese-inspired condiment combines the rich, savory depth of miso paste with the bright, spicy notes of fresh ginger. Versatile and packed with flavor, it’s an excellent way to elevate salads, marinades, or grain bowls. Here is how to make the Miso ginger salad dressing:

Miso Ginger Dressing

A flavorful blend of savory miso, zesty ginger, and tangy rice vinegar, balanced with a hint of sweetness. This umami-packed dressing brings a deliciously bold, Asian-inspired touch to your dishes, perfect for drizzling over salads, roasted vegetables, or as a marinade.

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Prep Time 5

Course Condiment

Cuisine Aisan, Japanese

Servings 4

Calories 85 kcal

Ingredients

2 tbsp white miso paste
1 tbsp freshly grated ginger
1 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp sesame oil
2 tbsp vegetable oil or any neutral oil
1 tbsp honey optional for sweetness
1 clove garlic minced
2 tbsp water adjust for desired consistency

Instructions

In a small bowl, whisk together the miso paste, grated ginger, garlic, rice vinegar, and soy sauce until well combined.
Gradually whisk in the sesame oil and vegetable oil until the mixture emulsifies.
Add water to adjust the consistency, then taste and add honey if you’d like a sweeter dressing.
Serve immediately or store in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Notes

– To make a vegan ginger miso dressing, use maple syrup or agave nectar instead of honey. Here’s a quick conversion guide:

Non-Vegan Ingredient	Vegan Alternative	Ratio
Honey	Maple syrup	1:1
Honey	Agave nectar	3:4

– To make a gluten-free option:

Replace soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos

Ensure the miso paste is certified gluten-free some varieties contain barley

– If you prefer a low-calorie version:

Reduce oil content by half and replace with water or dashi stock

Use low-sodium miso paste and soy sauce

Substitute honey with a zero-calorie sweetener like stevia or monk fruit extract

– Regional and fusion variations: Here are some fusion ideas I’ve developed:

Mediterranean blend: Mix in finely chopped herbs like parsley and dill

Thai-inspired: Add lemongrass and lime juice for a Southeast Asian twist

Korean fusion: Incorporate gochujang for a spicy-sweet variation

Keyword Asian salad dressing, gluten free, homemade salad dressing, miso ginger dressing, miso paste, umami flavor, vegan dressing

How to use miso sesame ginger dressing

Dipping sauce

Miso ginger dressing transcends its role as a mere salad topping. I often incorporate it into my culinary repertoire in the following ways:

Vegetable crudité dip
Sandwich spread
Sushi roll drizzle
Baked potato topping
Grain bowl flavor enhancer

As a salad dressing

Miso ginger sesame dressing shines brightest when paired with the right salad ingredients:

Crisp greens: Romaine, butter lettuce, watercress
Crunchy vegetables: Cucumber, radish, bell peppers
Asian-inspired additions: Edamame, mandarin oranges, sesame seeds

For an unforgettable Asian-inspired salad, you can try this combination:

Mixed greens
Shredded carrots
Sliced avocado
Crispy wonton strips
Grilled chicken or tofu
A generous drizzle of miso ginger dressing

Marinade for proteins

Ginger miso salad dressing doubles as an excellent marinade for various proteins. Here’s how I use it:

Seafood Applications:

Salmon: Marinate for 30 minutes before grilling
Shrimp: Toss in dressing just before stir-frying
Cod: Use as a glaze during the last few minutes of baking

Poultry and Meat Marinades:

Chicken breasts: Marinate for 2-4 hours before grilling or roasting
Pork tenderloin: Coat with dressing and refrigerate overnight
Beef strips: Quick 15-minute marinade for stir-fry

Tofu and Plant-Based Protein Options:

Extra-firm tofu: Press, then marinate for 1 hour before baking or air-frying
Tempeh: Steam first, then marinate for 30 minutes before cooking
Seitan: Brush with dressing during the last few minutes of cooking

In warm dishes and stir-fries

Here are some of my favorite uses for warm dishes, including:

Stir-fry sauce: Add at the end of cooking for a glossy finish
Noodle toss: Mix with warm soba or udon noodles
Roasted vegetable drizzle: Enhance the flavors of caramelized veggies
Soup base: Use as a foundation for quick miso soups
Grain pilaf: Stir into warm quinoa or brown rice for instant flavor

How to pair ginger sesame miso dressing

You can incorporate miso and ginger dressing into your daily meal. Here are some of my favorite meal ideas:

1. Asian-Fusion Buddha Bowl:

Base: Brown rice or quinoa
Protein: Grilled tofu or chicken
Veggies: Roasted broccoli, carrots, and edamame
Toppings: Avocado slices, pickled ginger
Finish: Drizzle of miso ginger dressing

2. Miso Ginger Noodle Salad:

Noodles: Chilled soba or rice noodles
Crunch: Julienned cucumber and bell peppers
Protein: Poached shrimp or sliced beef
Garnish: Chopped peanuts, green onions
Dressing: Generous toss with miso ginger dressing

3. Grilled Vegetable Platter:

Veggies: Zucchini, eggplant, portobello mushrooms
Preparation: Lightly brush with oil and grill
Serve: Arranged on a platter with miso ginger dressing for dipping

Contents

Miso ginger dressing recipe