Modern & Contemporary Dressings
Contemporary dressings are defined by technical mastery and cross-cultural fluency. Fermentation, emulsification science, and unexpected fat sources are the tools. Fat is not just a carrier — it is a flavour. The best modern dressings are promiscuous: miso-butter, XO-Caesar, kombucha vinaigrette.
Recipes
| Recipe | Key flavour | Best with |
|---|---|---|
| Ottolenghi-Tahini-Dressing | Nutty, lemon-bright, creamy | Roasted cauliflower, falafel, aubergine |
| Ottolenghi-Pomegranate-Molasses-Dressing | Fruity, complex acid, allspice | Tomatoes, halloumi, lamb |
| Caesar-Original-Tijuana | Eggy, citrus, Worcestershire | Whole romaine, tableside croutons |
| Modern-Caesar-Kenji | Anchovy-umami, mayo-creamy | Romaine, kale, grilled chicken |
| Green-Goddess-Chez-Panisse | Herby, tarragon-dominant, avocado-rich | Little Gem, asparagus, poached salmon |
| Alice-Waters-Red-Wine-Vinaigrette | Pure, bright, simple | Any quality greens — simplicity is the point |
| Passard-Aigre-Doux | Sweet-sour, honey-forward | Spring veg, duck, pork, fruit salads |
| Brown-Butter-Vinaigrette | Nutty, warm, luxurious | Seared scallops, radicchio, roasted squash |
| Noma-Lacto-Fermented-Fruit-Vinaigrette | Living-sour, complex, fruity | Stone fruit salads, beets, composed plates |
| XO-Sauce-Dressing | Umami-bomb, citrus, spicy | Citrus salads, grilled romaine, broccoli |
| Miso-Ginger-Sesame-Dressing | Creamy, earthy, ginger-forward | Grain bowls, soba, kale |
| Warm-Miso-Butter-Dressing | Warm, nutty butter, fermented depth | Steamed broccoli, seared scallops, soba |
| EMP-Powdered-Vinaigrette | Instant-dissolving sherry vinegar | Finishing garnish, composed dishes |
| Noma-Lacto-Fermented-Hot-Sauce-Vinaigrette | Living-sour, spicy, complex | Grilled meats, roasted cauliflower, black beans |
Salad-Dressings · French-European · Japanese-Asian · Mexican-Latin