Craving that vibrant orange dressing from your favorite Japanese steakhouse? This Carrot Ginger Salad Dressing brings that bold, restaurant-style flavor right to your kitchen with a healthy twist. Inspired by traditional hibachi favorites, our version swaps the raw bite for the natural sweetness of roasted carrots, blended with fresh ginger and zesty citrus. It is creamy, delicious, and one of the best low-sodium choices for adding a pop of flavor without the salt spike. Try this ginger carrot dressing drizzled over our Grilled Chicken Salad for a protein-packed lunch, or pair it with any of our heart-healthy salad recipes to make meal prep a breeze. Whether you are following a GLP-1 diet or just love fresh flavors, this simple blender recipe delivers.
For more delicious ways to flavor your greens without spiking your salt intake, be sure to check out our complete lineup of low sodium salad dressings. You can also browse our extensive library of healthy salads to find the perfect nutritious base for your homemade vinaigrettes and sauces.
Roasting the carrots naturally intensifies their sweetness, allowing us to skip the heavy amounts of refined sugar often found in bottled or restaurant versions. By blending whole vegetables with heart-healthy olive oil and fresh aromatics, this dressing offers a nutrient-dense, low-sodium alternative to processed condiments.
It is very similar in flavor profile! The main difference is that we roast the carrots first to bring out natural sweetness, whereas many restaurant versions use raw carrots and more added sugar.
Since it uses fresh ingredients without preservatives, it is best consumed within 5–7 days. Keep it stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Yes, you can use raw carrots for a sharper, more traditional "raw" texture. However, the dressing will be less sweet and may have a slightly grainier texture compared to the smooth roasted version.
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it does not use soy sauce (which often contains wheat). If you add miso or other mix-ins, just check their labels to be sure.
Making your own condiments at home is the easiest way to avoid hidden sodium and preservatives found in bottled brands. These heart-healthy recipes offer vibrant flavors and simple preparation for a guilt-free upgrade to your greens.
Turn this vibrant dressing into a satisfying meal by pairing it with fresh ingredients and lean proteins. These nutrient-dense salad recipes are designed to complement bold flavors while keeping you full and energized.
Fresh ginger (Zingiber officinale) is the star ingredient that gives this dressing its signature "zing." Unlike dried ginger powder, the fresh root contains active oils like gingerol that provide a potent, spicy-sweet kick and powerful antioxidant benefits. When blended raw into the dressing, it adds a bright, warming heat that balances the sweetness of the roasted carrots perfectly.
Recipe yields 8 servings
Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the grated carrots and garlic on baking sheet and roast for about 15 minutes, or until carrots become soft.
In a blender, combine the roasted carrots, water, olive oil, rice vinegar, minced ginger, and orange zest. Blend everything until the dressing is smooth. Cover and place in the refrigerator to chill.
This dressing is incredibly versatile. It is the classic pairing for a simple crisp iceberg or romaine salad with cucumbers and tomatoes, just like at a hibachi restaurant. It also works beautifully drizzled over roasted vegetables, grain bowls, or as a dipping sauce for fresh spring rolls. Try it atop grilled fish or chicken for a light, flavorful dinner.
For Extra Virgin Olive Oil: You can swap this for avocado oil or grapeseed oil if you prefer a more neutral flavor profile.
Maple Syrup: Honey or agave nectar work well as alternative natural sweeteners.
Rice Vinegar: If you don't have rice vinegar, apple cider vinegar is a great substitute, though it will add a slightly tangier apple note.
Fresh Orange Juice: In a pinch, bottled orange juice works, but fresh squeezed offers the brightest flavor