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Golden citrus zucchini dressing for a fresh, vibrant salad

This vibrant vegan Golden Citrus Zucchini Dressing is a delightful way to elevate any dish with its fresh and zesty flavours. Combining the subtle sweetness of courgette with the bright notes of lime and orange juice, this dressing is both refreshing and versatile. The addition of fresh turmeric adds an earthy depth, while cashew butter ensures a creamy texture without any dairy. It’s an ideal accompaniment to salads, grilled vegetables, or even as a dip for your favourite snacks.

Perfect for those seeking a light yet flavourful option, this dressing not only enhances your meals but also supports a plant-based lifestyle. Whether drizzled over a crisp salad or tossed with roasted vegetables, it brings a burst of sunshine to your plate while providing essential nutrients. Enjoy it as part of a balanced meal that’s sure to impress family and friends alike.

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Ingredients for Golden citrus zucchini dressing

  • 1 medium courgette, cut into 2.5 cm chunks

  • 1 piece spring onion (3-inch), white and light green parts only, coarsely chopped

  • 45 ml freshly squeezed lime juice

  • 45 ml extra-virgin olive oil or cold-pressed flaxseed oil

  • 2.5 g fine sea salt, plus more to taste

  • 1 recipe Zucchini Dressing, using golden courgette or a peeled green courgette and 30 ml lime juice

  • 1 piece fresh turmeric (5 cm), peeled, chopped (finely chopped if using a regular blender)

  • 30 ml freshly squeezed orange juice

  • 30 g raw cashew butter

  • 10 g nutritional yeast

  • 1 slice (0.5 cm) of a large garlic clove

How to make Golden citrus zucchini dressing

  1. Combine the zucchini, scallion, lime juice, oil, and salt in an upright blender. Blend on a low speed, gradually increasing to a higher speed until smooth.

  2. Use a rubber spatula (with the blender switched off) to move the ingredients around as necessary, or use the tamper stick if using a high-powered blender.

  3. Adjust the seasoning to taste, noting that variations with extra herbs may require additional salt.

  4. Scrape down the sides of the blender and blend again until fully combined.

  5. Use the dressing immediately, or store it in a glass jar in the fridge for up to 3 days. Shake well before using.

  6. Note that the dressing will thicken once chilled; if needed, thin it out with a little water.

  7. To make the dressing following the base recipe, add the turmeric, orange juice, cashew butter, nutritional yeast, and garlic to the blender along with the other ingredients. Blend until smooth.

Disclaimer
While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

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Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 30 Oct 2025 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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