Summary
Dr. Berg demonstrates how to make a simple homemade balsamic vinaigrette dressing using just four ingredients in a jar. The motivation is to avoid commercial dressings, which commonly contain GMO soy, corn oil, sugar, and MSG — even those marketed as “organic” or “free-from” alternatives.
Key Takeaways
- Commercial dressings are problematic — most contain GMO soy, corn oil, sugar, and MSG regardless of health marketing claims
- Even organic dressings often hide sugar and soy in their ingredient lists, so reading labels is essential
- Making your own dressing is simple and inexpensive — this recipe requires only four ingredients mixed in a jar
- Stevia can replace sugar — if you prefer a sweeter dressing, a single drop of stevia is recommended instead of added sugar
- Arugula is highlighted as an ideal salad base — it is a cruciferous vegetable with a bitter profile that supports liver health
- This recipe fits a low carb dietary approach
Details
The Problem with Store-Bought Dressings
Most commercial salad dressings — including those labeled organic or marketed as free from certain ingredients — routinely contain:
- GMO soy and corn oil as base ingredients
- Added sugar
- MSG
Even premium or health-branded options tend to include at least soy and sugar upon closer inspection of the ingredient label.
The Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe
The recipe is described as a four-ingredient balsamic vinaigrette made directly in a jar for easy shaking and refrigerator storage. Specific ingredient quantities are not detailed in the transcript, but the process is emphasized as quick, simple, and low-cost.
Key preparation note: Mix ingredients in a sealable jar, shake to combine, and store in the refrigerator.
Sweetener Substitution
For those who prefer a slightly sweet dressing, Dr. Berg recommends adding one drop of stevia rather than any form of sugar, keeping the recipe low-carb and free of refined sweeteners.
Arugula as a Salad Base
Arugula is specifically recommended as a pairing for this dressing and is noted for the following properties:
- Member of the cruciferous vegetables family
- Has a bitter flavor profile
- Considered beneficial for liver health due to its bitter compounds