Oh how I hate using the “D” word, but like everyone else, a New Year rings in and dietary/health habits need to get back on track. Oh, that “D” word = DIET. Fortunately, I am not dieting, but we (my husband & I) were challenged to Whole 30 for the month of January. When I first read about it, I thought there is no way in “H-E-double-hockey-sticks,” that I could do it. You see, I was challenged by my daughter (and her boyfriend) and they’re already fitness freaks and eat really healthy. Easy for them, not so easy for me. However, I’m on day 6 and going strong! Yeah me! But don’t you worry, I’m only on this for 30 days. After that, I’ll be modifying the “diet” and will be back posting some regular comfort foods and sweets. And, I’m here to tell you, that the dinners we’ve eaten are just as delicious and blog worthy! Your family won’t even know what you’re up to.
This salad was NOT a meal for me. It was a side salad that went along with Stuffed Bell Peppers (I’ll post that recipe in a couple of days). However, had I topped this salad with some grilled chicken, beef, or a nice salmon filet, it would have made a delicious meal. The Balsamic Dijon Salad Dressing is homemade and Whole 30 compliant. I had to search out a dijon mustard that was approved, but easily found Annie’s (at Whole Foods) and it’s delicious.
Seriously, how good does this salad look? And the delicious Balsamic Dijon Salad Dressing is only four ingredients (plus salt & pepper).
If you have friends or family following W30, make sure and share this (and more to come) recipes with them 🙂
**Disclaimer, if you’re following any of my recipes that I note as Whole 30 compliant, please check your ingredient labels first as they can vary.
- ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
- 1-2 cloves garlic (freshly crushed)
- ½ cup olive oil
- 1 TBSP dijon mustard (or more to taste) **Annies is W30 compliant
- ½ tsp sea salt
- ½ tsp fresh cracked black pepper
- Combine all ingredients in a small canning jar and shake until well mixed. Store leftover in refrigerator.
Pin me please 🙂
Whether or not your participating in Whole 30, you’ll love this salad. Here’s a few W30 meals that we enjoyed!
Whole 30 Meatballs, served over Baked Spaghetti Squash
Balsamic dressing is my favorite! This sounds great! Good luck on your Whole30 challenge. I did it in 2014, and I felt amazing afterward!
I love a flavorful dressing! I usually make the creamy fat filled ones cheese… Im going to try this because its a little healthier! Thanks!
Oooh this does sound rather lovely! That salad would be an entire meal for me, I’m afraid. I seem to be cursed with the ability to pile the pounds on if I eat until I’m no longer hungry!
The dressing makes the salad. And this one sounds delish! I usually prefer a creamy dressing, but will defo try this one.
Love balsamic dressings. Actually, I have not made some in a long while..I think I need to sort that out this week. I am craving your salad.
Gorgeous pics!! And love that dressing .. So so good!!
I made this and stored it in the refrigerator for 2 days and when I took it out today it was no longer liquid. Any idea why this happened??
The olive oil solidified in the refrigerator. Simply let it come back to room temperature and give it a few good shakes or a quick whisk and it should be fine.