*This is not a sponsored post. All opinions belong to jenny at dapperhouse.
When my husband and I came home after having kidney surgery we had so many wonderful people come to our aid during recovery. People brought us meals, gifts, flowers and treats! It made us feel so loved and blessed! We are incredibly thankful to have such wonderful friends around us. We appreciated the help and the thoughtful gifts. Once we began to feel better, it was time to show our sincere gratitude with a thank you gift. One of my favorite treats to myself is homemade, healthy salad dressing with fresh ingredients. I instantly thought that my health conscious friends would appreciate something delicious and nutritious. Here is how you can replicate this gift at home for any occasion!
Fresh Lemon Vinaigrette Dressing
Ingredients:
1/4 tsp. lemon pepper
1/4 tsp. cracked pepper
1/2 tsp. fresh garlic
1 tsp. sea salt
1/4 tsp. dried mustard
1/4 tsp. marjoram
1/4 tsp. basil
1/4 tsp. oregano
1/4 tsp. red pepper flakes
1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
1 slice of lemon for each jar
Fresh basil or mint leaves for each jar
1/4 cup white wine vinegar
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
1/2 cup extra virgin light olive oil
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
1/4 cup canola oil
1 cup water
Mix all ingredients in a large bowl and mix well or whisk. While mixed, scoop and pour into the jars to evenly distribute ingredients.
Add a fresh slice of lemon and a basil or mint leaf to each jar.
To Prepare the Jars:
You will need:
- small mason jars
- decorative paper
- ribbon
- gift tags
- chalk board sticker labels
- white paint pen
HOW TO:
Remove the lid from a mason jar.
Lay it on the decorative paper and trace circles for the tops pf the jars.
Cut out the circles. Set aside.
Lay out your labels and using the paint marker, write your greeting such as “Thank You” as I did.
TIP: Write the words before you put the labels on the jar lids in case you make a mistake and have to use a different labels.
Put the stickers on the paper circles.
Put the circles into the lid. (tighten the lids well)
Fill out your label and attach it to the ribbon.
Tie a ribbon around the jar.
And….voilà!
The list of ingredients may look a little long or intimidating, but it is really easy to throw together and mix! I guarantee you will love the natural flavors and fresh ingredients. Give it as a gift and make someone smile!
What is your favorite, fresh veggie to add to salads?
Robin (Masshole Mommy)
That sounds so good. I would love to try this on my salad!
Lisa Bristol
This is a great gift idea. I have been thinking about homemade gifts this year. I will have to make some to try.
Tammi @ My Organized Chaos
Mmm, this is something I’d love in the summer months, but it’s so light and refreshing during the winter too, when we overload on the heavy comfort foods!
Kelly Hutchinson
I love this as a gift idea! It is a healthy and tasty dressing and makes an unusual gift idea.
Meagan
I LOVE homemade salad dressing! This seriously would make such a great holiday neighbor gift – what a great and healthy idea!
Ann Bacciaglia
This looks delicious. I love giving homemade gifts. I will have to make some to try this weekend.
Dawn
That looks delicious! A good vinaigrette is my favorite topping for a salad.
Anna
That sounds yummy! Definitely would make a great Christmas present for the salad lovers!
Ronni
This is exactly how I make mine! Just not in a mason jar. I’m totally doing that now! 😉
Liz Mays
I tend to eat my salads plain or with a very light dressing. That lemon hint in the vinaigrette would be really nice for me.
Brett
Homemade gifts are always the best! This sounds so good!
Dee Mauser
This sounds yummy! I used to make my own vinaigrette but quit and can’t even remember why. I need to locate my recipe and try it again.
Marina John
Mmm, that looks soo good. I love the idea to use them as gifts too. How creative!
Jennifer
This sounds delicious. I love a good vinaigrette. It’s a healthy alternative to ranch (my other go to).
Ginger Mommy
This looks like a delicious recipe. I love lemon dressing. I am going to make this soon!
Shauna
I actually love adding fruit to salads… yummy! That dressing sounds amazing. Thank you for sharing.
kristin
This sounds like a great dressing. what a cute gift idea.
Nolie
I know a few people on my list who would enjoy receiving this for Christmas. Thank you, save me some money and have a great gift at the same time.
Aimee Smith
This is such a great idea for neighbor gifts! I need to make some to have here at my house, sounds really yummy!
Janice
This is a fantastic idea. I have never even considered it. Love it!