As far as we’re concerned, this is one of four essential salad dressing recipes

This homemade ginger sesame salad dressing brings together fresh ginger, toasted sesame oil, soy sauce and lime juice, with brown sugar for sweetness and Sriracha for a little heat. It’s quick to whisk together and particularly good with crunchy vegetables, noodle salads and grain bowls.

We love it with julienned carrots, baby bok choy and shredded red cabbage, finished with fresh mango or pineapple for a little extra sweetness. It’s also delicious drizzled over tofu or shrimp.

Why You’ll Love This Ginger Sesame Dressing

Ready in minutes: Simply stir the ingredients together in a bowl.
Sweet, tangy and spicy: Brown sugar, lime juice, fresh ginger and Sriracha create a balanced dressing.
Easy to customize: Adjust the Sriracha to suit your preferred level of heat.
Versatile: Delicious with crunchy salads, noodles, tofu and shrimp.

Tips for Making Ginger Sesame Dressing

Use fresh ginger: Finely grated ginger gives the dressing its distinctive flavour. A Microplane makes quick work of it.
Adjust the heat: Start with the suggested amount of Sriracha, then add more if you prefer a spicier dressing. The optional fresh red finger chili adds another layer of heat.
Stir before serving: The oil may separate as the dressing sits, so give it another good whisk before using.

Homemade ginger sesame salad dressing with chili and toasted sesame seeds in a glass.

Sweet Heat Ginger Sesame Salad Dressing

Ginger, sesame and a touch of heat give this dressing its sweet-spicy character. It's especially good with crunchy vegetables and fresh, colourful salads.

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Ingredients

1 tsp fresh ginger finely grated
1 small clove garlic minced
2 tbsp rice vinegar
2 tbsp fresh lime juice
1 tbsp packed light brown sugar
2 tsp light soy sauce
1 tsp Sriracha hot chili sauce
1 tsp sesame oil
2 tbsp vegetable oil
½ tsp kosher salt
½ small red finger chili finely chopped (optional)
1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds

Instructions

In small bowl, stir together ginger, garlic, vinegar, lime juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, sriracha, sesame oil and vegetable oil. Season with kosher salt, fresh chili and sesame seeds before serving.

Keyword ginger sesame dressing, homemade salad dressing, sesame ginger dressing, sweet spicy dressing

Frequently Asked Questions

What is ginger sesame dressing made of?: This ginger sesame dressing combines fresh ginger, garlic, rice vinegar, lime juice, soy sauce, sesame oil, vegetable oil, brown sugar and Sriracha. Toasted sesame seeds add texture and nutty flavour.
What goes well with ginger sesame dressing?: Ginger sesame dressing is delicious with crunchy vegetables such as cabbage, carrots and bok choy. It also works well with noodle salads, grain bowls, tofu and shrimp.
Can I make ginger sesame dressing less spicy?: Yes. Reduce or omit the Sriracha and leave out the optional fresh chili. You can adjust the sweetness and acidity to taste.