Sorry cleansers, but this dressing is not for you. Once you finish your cleanse, though, feel free to make this Japanese-inspired miso vinaigrette dressing. Not only is it vegan and gluten-free, but it is also free of added sugars. It tastes just like a classic vinaigrette from a Japanese restaurant, only it is much healthier. We were inspired to use miso in a dressing, as miso is a nutrient-dense, fermented paste made from soybeans. It is naturally rich in probiotics and offers significant benefits to gut health, immune function, and nutrient absorption.

Having a healthy gut microbiome can help defend the body against harmful bacteria and foreign invaders. Not only does it enhance digestive function, but it also reduces gas, bloating, and the risk of constipation. A. oryzae is the primary probiotic strain found in miso. According to research, this probiotic may help reduce the risk of digestive problems, such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The fermentation process of miso also helps improve digestion by reducing the amount of anti-nutrients in soybeans. Anti-nutrients naturaly exist in founds, including soybeans and other grains. Consuming too many anti-nutrients can cause them to bind to nutrients in the gut, which reduces the body’s ability to absorb them.

We decided to use avocado oil for this dressing because olive oil’s flavor can clash with miso, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. We also added hot water to help thin the dressing and break down the miso paste without having to whisk too much. Once you make the dressing, you can store it in an airtight jar in the fridge for up to two weeks.