Turmeric Dressing: Raw Food Recipe

Turmeric is a root related to ginger. It’s a little hot and spicy, which makes it delicious. It’s active ingredient, curcumin, is also a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory that could improve all sorts of things from arthritis to diabetes. Buy the fresh root and use peeled and grated, or buy the dried powder which is available at most groceries. I found mine at my local farmer’s market.

Like most foods, it works synergistically. The absorption of curcumin is greatly enhanced by black pepper and it boosts the absorption of omega-3s, so I’ve added some pepper and flax oil. If you don’t have flax oil on hand, substitute olive oil or just omit. 

This delicious and super healthy turmeric dressing can be used over any salad, as I’ve done here, but is also delicious on just about anything else from mixed veggies to rice bowls. It also works as a great vegetable dip.

ingredients

dressing

• 3 tablespoons tahini ($.30)
• 4 tablespoons lemon juice ($.60)
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup or agave (can substitute stevia or omit) ($.10)
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar ($.10)
• 1 tablespoon flax oil ($.20)
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce ($.10)
• 1 teaspoon turmeric ($.10)
• 1 teaspoon onion powder ($.10)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder 
• 1 teaspoon cilantro flakes
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon cayenne
• 1/4 teaspoon ginger 
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper (or to taste)

salad

• 1 head romaine or other lettuce ($1.80)
• 2 tomatoes ($1.00)
• 1 cucumber ($.50)
• 1 small onion, sliced ($.20)