Hazelnut Oil Dressing
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Hazelnut Oil Dressing is a rich, nutty vinaigrette typically made by emulsifying cold-pressed hazelnut oil with an acid like vinegar or lemon juice, often enhanced with Dijon mustard, honey, and seasonings. It is a specialty condiment associated with French and Italian cuisine, particularly in regions where hazelnuts are a key agricultural product.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dressing is very high in healthy monounsaturated fats from the hazelnut oil, providing a significant calorie density, with a typical tablespoon containing around 120-130 calories. It is virtually carbohydrate and protein-free, offering primarily vitamin E and other antioxidants from the oil.
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, it's a prized ingredient in the hazelnut-growing regions of Piedmont, Italy, and the Périgord, France, used to elevate simple salads or drizzled over roasted vegetables and fish. Nutritionally, its high content of monounsaturated fats is considered heart-healthy, similar to olive oil, and its robust flavor means a little goes a long way.