Jane Esselstyn’s oil-free Italian-style dressing often utilizes her signature “3-2-1” formula (3 tbsp balsamic vinegar, 2 tbsp Dijon mustard, 1 tbsp maple syrup) as a base.
A specifically savory, oil-free “Italian” variation includes red wine vinegar, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried herbs like basil and oregano, sometimes thickened with white beans or blended oats.
Jane Esselstyn’s 3-2-1 Dressing Base
This foundational, oil-free dressing can be adjusted for an Italian flavor profile:
* 3 tbsp Balsamic or White Wine Vinegar
* 2 tbsp Dijon Mustard
* 1 tbsp Maple Syrup (or date syrup)
Optional for Italian flavor: Add 1 tsp dried oregano, 1 tsp dried basil, and 1/2 tsp garlic powder.
Creamy Oil-Free Italian Dressing (Plant-Based Cooking Show style)
Base: 1/4 cup hemp hearts or cooked white beans (for creaminess)
Acids:
* 2 Tbsp red wine vinegar, 2 Tbsp white wine vinegar, 4 tsp lemon juice
Flavor:
* 2 tsp garlic powder
* 2 tsp onion powder
* 2 tsp liquid aminos (or soy sauce)
Herbs:
* 1 tsp dried basil
* 1 tsp dried oregano
* 1 tsp dried parsley
* 1/4 tsp pepper flakes
Liquid:
* 1 cup water
Instructions: Blend all ingredients (except dried herbs) in a high-speed blender until smooth. Stir in dried herbs.
These dressings are designed to be completely free of olive oil and added fats, adhering to the Esselstyn heart-health guidelines.