Vietnamese Oil and Vinegar Salad Dressing — A Simple Touch of Flavor and Care

Some days, simplicity is the most beautiful ingredient.  With just garlic, onion, sugar, vinegar, and olive oil, this Vietnamese-style salad dressing brightens any plate of fresh vegetables.  It’s sweet, tangy, and gentle on the waistline—a favorite among women looking to eat clean without sacrificing flavor.  This dressing speaks to the quiet elegance of the everyday Vietnamese kitchen: quick, nourishing, and made with love.  Whether you’re preparing a light lunch for yourself or tossing something refreshing to share with loved ones, this vinaigrette brings out the natural beauty of fresh produce in a way that’s both healthful and heartful.  Just mix, pour, and sing a little while it settles.  This vinaigrette is perfect for days you want to feel light, eat healthy, or treat your veggies like they deserve the spotlight.  Whether you’re cooking solo or sharing a salad with family, I hope this easy recipe adds joy to your day—just like music does.

🕐 Ready in 15 minutes • Low-fat • High-fiber • Perfect for busy days or peaceful meals

 

Ingredients:

• 1/3 to 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 cup vinegar (white or rice vinegar recommended)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup minced garlic
• 1/4 cup diced white onion

Directions:

1.    In a sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.  Add the garlic and onion, stirring frequently until the garlic turns golden brown and fragrant.

2.    Remove the garlic and onion with a slotted spoon and set them aside.

3.    In the same pan, using the infused oil, add sugar, vinegar, and salt.  Stir well and cook until the sugar is fully dissolved.

4.    Taste and adjust seasoning if needed (you can add more sugar for sweetness or vinegar for tanginess).

5.    Return the cooked garlic and onion to the mixture.  Let cool before using.  Store in a jar in the fridge for up to a week.

 

Fresh Salad with Sweet Garlic Vinegar Dressing

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh green lettuce (or any lettuce of choice)
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
• 1 cup sliced cucumber
• 2 hard-boiled eggs (halved or sliced)
• 1/4 cup of the prepared garlic vinegar dressing
• Fresh chili (optional, thinly sliced)
• A few sprigs of chopped cilantro
• (Optional) Thinly sliced red onions for extra flavor

Directions:

1.    Arrange the lettuce, tomatoes, cucumber, and eggs on a large plate or in a salad bowl.

2.    Drizzle with about 1/4 cup of the garlic vinegar dressing, or to taste.

3.    Top with fresh chili, chopped cilantro, and optional red onion slices.

4.    Toss lightly before serving, or serve as a composed salad.