Zesty Manuka Honey & Roasted Garlic Mustard Dressing
Tangy, slightly sweet dressing for salads, grain bowls and roasted vegetables
A bright, creamy mustard dressing sweetened with New Zealand Manuka honey and mellowed by roasted garlic. Works as a salad dressing, drizzle for roasted veg or a finishing glaze for warm grain bowls — trending for its balance of sweet, savoury and umami flavours.
Timing
Cook Time: PT15M
Prep Time: PT10M
Rest Time: PT15M
Total Time: PT40M
Active Time: PT10M
Ingredients
1
head
garlic
(Notes: halved horizontally, for roasting)
2
tbsp
manuka honey
(Notes: Comvita or other certified brand; adjust to taste)
2
tbsp
Dijon mustard
(Notes: smooth or wholegrain per preference)
60
ml
extra virgin olive oil
(Notes: cold‑pressed)
2
tbsp
fresh lemon juice
(Notes: about 1 lemon)
1
tbsp
apple cider vinegar
(Notes: unfiltered preferred)
1
tbsp
tahini
(Notes: optional, for creaminess and trending nutty flavour)
1/2
tsp
sea salt
(Notes: or to taste)
1/4
tsp
black pepper
(Notes: freshly cracked)
30
ml
water
(Notes: to thin dressing if needed)
Instructions
Step 1
Preheat oven to 200°C. Place the halved garlic head on a square of foil, drizzle with 1 tsp olive oil, wrap loosely and roast until soft and golden, about 15 minutes.
Tip: Roast a couple of extra heads and freeze for future dressings and spreads.
Timing: PT15M
Step 2
Allow roasted garlic to cool slightly, then squeeze the soft cloves into a mixing bowl and mash into a paste with a fork.
Tip: If you prefer no texture, blend the garlic paste with the lemon juice before adding other ingredients.
Timing: PT02M
Step 3
Whisk together mashed roasted garlic, Dijon mustard, manuka honey, lemon juice and apple cider vinegar until smooth.
Tip: Use a whisk or a small blender for a silkier emulsion.
Timing: PT02M
Step 4
Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously to emulsify the dressing. Stir in tahini if using, then season with sea salt and black pepper.
Tip: Pour the oil in a thin steady stream for best emulsion.
Timing: PT03M
Step 5
If the dressing is too thick, whisk in water a tablespoon at a time until you reach desired consistency. Taste and adjust acidity, salt or honey to balance flavours.
Tip: A little extra manuka honey will enhance sweetness and mouthfeel without overpowering.
Timing: PT01M
Step 6
Transfer to a jar, refrigerate and let rest for at least 15 minutes to allow flavours to meld before serving. Shake well before use.
Tip: Dressing keeps 5–7 days refrigerated; bring to room temperature before serving if it firms up.
Timing: PT15M