KANSAS CITY — As warmer weather approaches, makers of sauces and dressings are debuting lighter offerings, with many companies emphasizing the healthy ingredients that make up their products.

Olive oil maker California Olive Ranch is adding to its portfolio with the release of four plant-based marinades and sauces, focusing on flavors that pair well with spring and summer foods.

“We've had our sights set on this growing category for years and we are excited to finally share these extra virgin olive oil-based products with our fans, both new and longtime users,” said Michael Fox, chief executive officer of California Olive Ranch. “Our award-winning extra virgin olive oil takes center stage, and we hope our approach to high-quality, healthy ingredients resonates with consumers of all cooking abilities."

Bolthouse Farms also is taking salad dressing in a healthier direction with its reformulated yogurt-based dressings.

“Our newly reformulated, creamy dressings include more buttermilk, ranch flavor and blue cheese crumbles, as well as thicker pourability,” said Amy Shoemaker, marketing director at Bolthouse Farms. “With cleaner ingredients and a yogurt base for fewer calories, the reformulated dressings allow our consumers to lead a healthier lifestyle without sacrificing the joy of yummy meals.”

Kraft Heinz is taking the dressing category in a different direction with its newest sauce, designed as a condiment for burgers — the Heinz Dip & Crunch. The condiment combines a dipping sauce with crunchy potato bits to add texture and flavor to burgers.

“As we continue to reimagine mealtime, we’re excited to offer a solution for consumers looking for accessible dipping sauces and unique textures to help further embrace the fun of cooking and eating at home,” said Ashleigh Gibson, brand director at Heinz. 

From a plant-based Caesar dressing to a textured sauce for burgers to a spicy-take on Southern peach jelly, innovations in sauces and dressings continue as companies are looking toward the warmer weather for seasonal inspiration. 

View seasonal sauce and dressing innovations.