Orange Poppy Seed Dressing

I am on a semi diet again (ssh! I don't want to let my body know what my brain is planning. I become instantly hungry the moment I decide to eat better). As part of my dieting plan I decided I needed to eat more salads and that is Reason #1 that this beautiful orange poppy seed dressing had to be made. I am a big fan of poppy seed dressing. Unfortunately, it is a little over the top in the sugar department. This fresh citrus alternative may just save me as I launch my week of salads for lunch. It is nonfat and uses honey instead of refined sugar. The second reason: Have you seen the cost of salad dressing? If I want to climb out of an Italian dressing rut I need to start making some of my own dressings. I had all the ingredients for this pantry friendly dressing on hand. Although, I rarely buy straight orange juice concentrate. Next time I am going to make this dressing with the orange/pineapple juice I always have stocked. That ought to give it an interesting kick.

This dressing is quite tart but I am loving it on top of watermelon and spinach. If you want to sweeten it, add a touch more honey. All the credit for this recipe goes to Sue Dannahower who had it published at Taste of Home

Ingredients
4 tsp cornstarch
6 TB cold water
1 1/3 Cups Orange Juice
1/4 Cup white vinegar
4 tsp honey dijon mustard
4 tsp honey (add a little more for extra sweetness)
1 1/2 tsp poppy seeds
1/2 tsp salt

In a medium saucepan, stir cornstarch and water until smooth. Stir in the OJ, vinegar, mustard and honey. Bring to a boil. Cook and stir for 1 minute or until slightly thickened. Stir in poppy seeds and salt and chill in refrigerator.

TIP
Honey Mustard is a great flavor enhancer for many dishes. Buy an extra bottle next time it is on sale and add it to your pantry shelves. Also, spinach is a great garden staple. Plan on planting it this fall for Spring crop next year.