The Natural Gourmet: Creamy Sweet Pea Dressing (Dairy-free!)

A good dressing can transform even the simplest salad into something sublime – and in the months of sun and heat, salads are in heavy rotation. To keep your salad routine interesting, try out this easy yet memorable dressing that boasts the natural sweetness of spring peas.

Making salad dressings with a base of pureed vegetables is a brilliant way to boost flavor and nutrient content while not relying on loads of oils or dairy products to achieve creaminess. What you get is a crave-worthy, bright dressing that’s fit to pour over anything from crisp lettuces to cooked grains.

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Peas pack an unexpectedly mighty dose of nutrition considering their modest size and delicacy; they are high in Vitamins A, B-complex and C, as well as minerals like calcium, potassium and zinc. Impressive levels of Alpha-Linoleic Acid make peas an anti-inflammatory whole food.

At the market, look for peas that have small, shiny, plump pods. Frozen peas also make a fine substitute for fresh, as they’re frozen at the height of their freshness. For variety, blend in delicate fresh herbs like dill or tarragon.

See also The Natural Gourmet: 5-Minute Chia-Berry Jam

Creamy Sweet Pea Dressing Recipe

MAKES ABOUT 1 CUP

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup green peas (fresh, or frozen and thawed)
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 1/2 tablespoons smooth Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt

Instructions:

In a blender, combine all the ingredients and puree on high speed; thin out with 1 tablespoon of water, if needed, until desired consistency is reached. Dressing may be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

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