Terpene-Infused
Salad Dressing
Terpene-Infused Salad Dressing
This salad dressing with added terpenes offers a touch to your salads by blending in the tasty features of terpenes. Whether you're looking for a citrus taste or a herby or woody flavor profile terpenes can bring richness and layers to a vinaigrette dressing. This dressing is adaptable. Works, as a topping for fresh greens baked veggies or even, as a dipping sauce.
Ingredients
1/4 cup olive oil (extra virgin for the best flavor)
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (or white wine vinegar)
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup for a vegan version)
1 garlic clove, minced (optional)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Terpene Additions:
1–2 drops of terpene oil (choose based on your flavor preference):
Limonene (for a bright, citrusy kick)
Linalool (for a floral, lavender-like note)
Pinene (for a fresh, piney aroma)
Myrcene (for a musky, earthy flavor)
Terpinolene (for a sweet, herbal and floral combination)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Dressing Base
In a small bowl or jar, combine the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and honey. Whisk together until smooth and emulsified. You can also shake everything in a mason jar for a quick mix.
2. Add Garlic (Optional)
If you like a bit of savory flavor, add the minced garlic to the dressing. This will give the dressing a more robust, aromatic base.
3. Season to Taste
Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Start with a pinch of salt and a few cracks of pepper, and adjust from there depending on your preference.
4. Add Terpenes
Carefully add 1–2 drops of your chosen terpene oil. Terpenes are potent, so start with a small amount and taste as you go. You can adjust the level based on how pronounced you want the flavor to be.
Limonene will bring a bright, fresh citrus note.
Linalool offers a floral, calming lavender essence that pairs nicely with a more delicate salad.
Pinene will lend a crisp, piney freshness, ideal for a hearty or earthy salad with ingredients like
spinach, arugula, or kale.
Myrcene adds an earthy, musky tone that works well with root vegetables or roasted salads.
Terpinolene adds sweet, herbal, and floral notes, great for salads with fresh herbs like basil or mint.
5. Mix and Taste
Stir or shake the dressing until fully combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or terpene oil to suit your preferences.
6. Serve
Drizzle the dressing over your favorite salad greens, roasted veggies, or even use it as a marinade for chicken or tofu. The flavors will develop and intensify as it sits, so it’s even better if you can let it rest for about 10-15 minutes before serving.
Optional Add-ins:
Fresh herbs: Minced fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or thyme can be added to the dressing for extra herbal flavor.
Lemon zest: If you love a zesty, citrusy punch, consider adding a bit of lemon zest to complement the limonene in the dressing.
Chili flakes: For a little heat, a pinch of red chili flakes can be a perfect addition.
Terpene Potency: Terpenes are concentrated, so be sure to start with 1 drop and taste before adding more. The flavors can be strong, and it's easier to add more than to tone it down.
Storage: Store any leftover dressing in the refrigerator in an airtight container. The dressing will last for about 5-7 days. Make sure to shake well before each use, as the oil and vinegar may separate over time.