To create your own healthy-heart salad dressing, first select a fat or fat substitute. Then combine it in creative ways with one or more of the acids and accents. If using a fat, try 1 part fat to 3 parts acid. If using a fat substitute, combine proportions any way you like. You can also try using less fat and a fat substitute together to give the flavor and texture you like without as much fat. Use as many of the accents as you like whatever your fat/acid combination — be creative.

• Fat: Canola oil, extra-virgin olive oil, peanut oil, low-fat mayonnaise, sesame oil (in small amounts for flavor), walnut oil (in small amounts for flavor).
• Fat substitute: Nonfat plain yogurt, low-fat buttermilk, nonfat sour cream, miso, silken tofu, nonfat cottage cheese.
• Acid: Lemon juice, lime juice, orange juice, wine vinegar, balsamic vinegar, cider vinegar, rice wine vinegar, tarragon vinegar, raspberry vinegar, other flavored vinegar, fish sauce, pineapple juice, wine, fresh salsa, apple juice, fresh tomato juice.
• Accent: Basil, dill, oregano, fennel, cilantro, mint, curry powder, minced garlic, green onions, chives, shallots, grated fresh ginger, lemon zest, low-sodium soy sauce, capers, honey, mustard, mustard powder, cumin, roasted garlic, poppy seeds, chili paste, finely chopped fresh fruit, dried fruit.
• Accents that add a little fat: Anchovy paste, olives, sesame seeds, tahini (sesame seed butter).