The Zesty Heart of Summer: A Russian Tomato Salad Dressing

There are certain flavors that, for me, are inextricably linked to the warmth of summer and the comforting hum of my family kitchen. This Russian Tomato Salad Dressing is one of them. I can vividly recall my mother, apron dusted with flour from an earlier baking project, meticulously measuring ingredients for this vibrant dressing. The kitchen would fill with its tangy, slightly sweet aroma, a promise of crisp lettuce and sun-ripened tomatoes to come. It wasn’t just a dressing; it was the prelude to a perfect summer meal, a taste of home that has stayed with me for years.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 5 minutes
• Servings: 4-6 (depending on portion size)
• Yields: 2 cups dressing
• Dietary Type: Can be adapted for various dietary needs with ingredient substitutions (e.g., sugar substitute for sugar)

Ingredients

This dressing is wonderfully straightforward, relying on pantry staples to create a burst of flavor.

• 8 ounces tomato sauce
• 1 cup oil (a neutral-flavored oil like vegetable, canola, or sunflower oil works best)
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon sugar (or a sugar substitute, as per the original Weight Watchers adaptation)
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 to 1 teaspoon onion salt or 1/2 to 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Lemon juice (optional, to taste, for an extra zing)

Equipment Needed

The beauty of this dressing lies in its simplicity, requiring minimal equipment.

• A container with a tight-fitting lid (such as a jar or a shaker bottle) for mixing and storing.
• A measuring cup and spoons for accurate ingredient proportions.

Instructions

The magic of this Russian Tomato Salad Dressing happens in mere minutes, making it an ideal companion for impromptu salads or quick weeknight meals.

1. Gather all of your ingredients. Ensure your tomato sauce is smooth and your oil, apple cider vinegar, and other liquid ingredients are readily available.
2. Carefully measure out the 8 ounces of tomato sauce and add it to your chosen container.
3. Pour in the 1 cup of oil.
4. Add the 1/2 cup of apple cider vinegar.
5. Measure and add the 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce.
6. Include the 1 tablespoon of sugar. If you’re following a reduced-sugar approach, this is where you would substitute a sugar substitute, starting with the equivalent of 1 tablespoon of sweetness.
7. Add the 2 teaspoons of salt.
8. Measure and add the 1/2 teaspoon of paprika.
9. Incorporate the 1/2 teaspoon of dry mustard.
10. Add the 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder.
11. Measure and add either 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of onion salt or 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of onion powder, depending on your preference for saltiness and onion intensity.
12. If you desire an extra layer of brightness, add a splash of lemon juice at this stage, starting with about a teaspoon and adjusting to your liking.
13. Secure the lid tightly onto your container.
14. Shake vigorously for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, ensuring all the ingredients are thoroughly combined and emulsified into a cohesive dressing.

Expert Tips & Tricks

While the instructions are straightforward, a few nuances can elevate this dressing even further.

• Emulsification is Key: The goal is to create a stable emulsion. Vigorous shaking is crucial. If your dressing separates slightly after sitting, a quick shake will bring it back together.
• Ingredient Quality Matters: Using a good quality tomato sauce will naturally enhance the flavor. Likewise, a fresh, bright apple cider vinegar makes a noticeable difference.
• The Sugar Substitute Adaptation: The original recipe’s mention of using sugar substitute is a nod to the early days of diet-conscious cooking. If you opt for this, remember that different sweeteners have varying potencies. Start with a smaller amount and taste, adjusting as needed to achieve the desired sweetness without making it overpowering.
• Consistency Control: If you find the dressing a bit too thick for your liking, a tiny splash of water (no more than a tablespoon at a time) can help thin it out. Conversely, if it’s too thin, you can let it sit in the refrigerator for a bit; the oils will solidify slightly, and it will thicken up.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This Russian Tomato Salad Dressing is incredibly versatile, perfect for a wide array of dishes.

Serving:
This dressing is an absolute dream on green salads, particularly those featuring crisp lettuce, cucumber, and perhaps some hard-boiled eggs. It also makes a fantastic marinade for grilled chicken or pork, or as a zesty sauce for potato salads and coleslaws. For a truly authentic Russian experience, pair it with a simple salad of sliced tomatoes and onions, allowing the dressing to shine.

Storage:
This dressing keeps beautifully in the refrigerator due to the vinegar content, which acts as a preservative. Store it in its airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Before each use, give it a good shake to re-emulsify. It does not require freezing.

Nutritional Information

This estimate is based on using standard vegetable oil and sugar. Values can vary significantly based on the specific brands and types of ingredients used, especially if sugar substitutes are employed.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving (approx. 2 tbsp)	% Daily Value
Calories	1043.3 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	985 kcal	N/A
Total Fat	109.5 g	168 %
Saturated Fat	14.2 g	70 %
Cholesterol	0 mg	0 %
Sodium	3012.1 mg	125 %
Total Carbohydrate	16.1 g	5 %
Dietary Fiber	2.1 g	8 %
Sugars	12.4 g	49 %
Protein	1.9 g	3 %

Note: The Daily Value percentages are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Variations & Substitutions

While the classic recipe is wonderfully satisfying, feel free to experiment and make it your own.

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a little heat.
• Herbal Notes: Finely chopped fresh dill or parsley can be stirred in just before serving for added freshness.
• Creamier Texture: For a richer, creamier dressing, a tablespoon or two of sour cream or Greek yogurt can be whisked in. If you’re aiming for dairy-free, a plant-based yogurt would work.
• Sweetness Adjustment: If you prefer a less sweet dressing, reduce the sugar or sugar substitute by half. Conversely, if you have a sweet tooth, you might add a touch more.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this dressing ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! This dressing is perfect for making ahead, as its flavors meld and deepen over time. It’s best stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Q: How long does this dressing last?
A: Due to the vinegar content, this dressing has a good shelf life. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Q: What kind of oil is best for this dressing?
A: A neutral-flavored oil such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or sunflower oil is recommended. Extra virgin olive oil can be used, but its stronger flavor might alter the intended taste profile of the dressing.

Q: My dressing has separated after sitting. What should I do?
A: This is completely normal for vinaigrette-style dressings. Simply give the container a good shake before each use to re-emulsify the ingredients.

Q: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of tomato sauce?
A: While you could theoretically blend fresh tomatoes, the consistency of canned tomato sauce is specifically what the recipe calls for to achieve the right texture and flavor balance. Using fresh tomatoes would require significant adjustments and likely cooking down to achieve a similar result.

Final Thoughts

This Russian Tomato Salad Dressing is more than just a condiment; it’s a testament to the power of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly memorable. It’s a flavor that evokes warmth, comfort, and the joy of good food shared. I encourage you to try it, to embrace its straightforward charm, and to discover how it can transform even the simplest salad into a culinary delight. Don’t hesitate to adapt it to your personal taste and share your creations with loved ones. Bon appétit!