Simple Hemp Seed Dressing

I am fascinated by the possibilities of using hemp seeds in cooking.

Nutritionally hemp seeds are high in protein, good fats (omega 3 and 6), fiber, vitamin E, and minerals (like phosphorus, potassium, sodium, magnesium, calcium, sulfur, iron and zinc!).

Hemp seeds (also know as Hua Ma Ren), have been used in Chinese Medicine for thousands of years and is in the top 50 fundamental herbs. It has sweet and mild properties associated with stomach, spleen and large intestine. Hua Ma Ren is used in many remedies.

Tiny little seeds packed with great nutrition and healing properties.

It’s important to note that hemp seeds may have trace amounts of THC. If  you are someone with strong addictive tendencies toward cannabis then this may be a food to avoid. (Like kombucha and alcohol.)

Hemp seeds have a mild nutty flavor and can be used raw or cooked, whole or ground. Blended, they emulsify and become ‘creamy’.

This spring I have been experimenting with different salad dressings using raw hemp seeds. I especially love pairing hemp dressing with cooked greens. (Also good with salads and other vegetables and so much more!)

In this basic recipe there is a variable for the amount of salt and acid (either lemon or apple cider vinegar). This is so you can make the dressing to suit yourself. I usually start with the lesser amount of salt and acid and then add more at the end of blending if desired.

As an option you can also add more hemp seed to make a thicker dressing and blend for a longer time to get a creamier result.

This dressing with the full amount of salt and the zest and rind of a small organic lemon is excellent on steamed asparagus! (No need for Hollandaise!)