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Weeknight Salad Ideas You Can Build in Five Minutes
A salad stops being a chore the moment the dressing is already good. These weeknight salad ideas take about five minutes each, use things you probably already have, and all of them lean on one bottle doing the heavy lifting. That bottle is usually our Sesame Soy Vinaigrette. Chef Cindy made it in 2002 and has not changed the recipe since, which tells you most of what you need to know. 1. The Tomato Plate Thick-sliced tomatoes, flaky salt, and a heavy pour of Sesame Soy Vinaig

Cindy MacDougall
19 hours ago2 min read


Winter Salad Vinaigrettes to Lift Your Winter Mood
Beat the winter blues with simple exercise and fresh, nutrient-packed salads, plus mood-boosting vinaigrettes like sesame soy, herbed, and balsamic, made in Canada.

Cindy MacDougall
Feb 24 min read


Which Gourmet Dressing Should You Buy First?
Discover how Merci Mon Ami Dressing transforms everyday meals into gourmet experiences. Crafted in small batches with high-quality ingredients, these dressings bring bold, balanced flavors to salads, roasted vegetables, and more. Perfect for home cooks and food enthusiasts, Merci Mon Ami offers artisanal taste, convenience, and the touch of culinary craftsmanship every dish deserves.

Cindy MacDougall
Dec 26, 20255 min read


Sesame Soy Vinaigrette: Celebrating Our Editors Choice Win in Chatelaine Magazine
This October 2025, Chatelaine editors highlighted Merci Mon Ami Sesame Vinaigrette as a standout kitchen essential. Made in-house in small batches, this rich, nutty dressing elevates salads, roasted vegetables, and even simple grain bowls with bold sesame flavor and a perfect balance of soy and acidity. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your weeknight meals or impress at dinner parties, this versatile dressing is an editor-approved must-have that brings gourmet quality to eve

Cindy MacDougall
Nov 4, 20253 min read


The Magic of Chef Cindy's Sesame Soy Vinaigrette
Chef Cindy’s Sesame Soy Vinaigrette has redefined what a salad dressing can be. Crafted with a perfect balance of nutty sesame and savory soy, this small-batch vinaigrette elevates simple salads into flavorful, memorable meals. Loved by home cooks and chefs alike, it’s versatile enough for marinades, dipping sauces, and drizzling over vegetables, proving that a well-crafted dressing can transform everyday dishes into extraordinary culinary experiences.

Cindy MacDougall
Jul 14, 20253 min read


Healthy Eating = Healthy You
Healthy eating is more than a trend—it’s a lifestyle that fuels your body and mind. Choosing fresh, nutrient-rich ingredients and preparing meals thoughtfully can boost energy, support overall wellness, and make everyday eating enjoyable. With simple swaps, balanced portions, and flavorful dressings like those from Merci Mon Ami, healthy meals can be delicious, satisfying, and easy to incorporate into your daily routine

Cindy MacDougall
Jun 19, 20253 min read


Chef Cindy. Female entrepreneur, mom, and wife.
Chef Cindy exemplifies the balance of entrepreneurship, motherhood, and culinary passion. As the founder of Merci Mon Ami and co-owner of We Cater To You, she crafts award-winning small-batch sauces and dressings that highlight quality and flavor. Her journey as a female entrepreneur and leader in Toronto’s food industry inspires aspiring chefs and business owners alike, proving that dedication and creativity can drive both family and business success

Cindy MacDougall
Jan 23, 20253 min read


Elevate Your Beetroot Salad with the Perfect Sesame Soy Vinaigrette
Elevate your meals with a vibrant beetroot vegetable salad drizzled with Merci Mon Ami Sesame Soy Vinaigrette. Earthy beets, fresh greens, and crunchy nuts combine with the savory, nutty vinaigrette to create a healthy, flavorful, and visually stunning salad perfect for any occasion.

Cindy MacDougall
Jul 1, 20243 min read


First day of summer brings BBQ season
The first day of summer marks the start of BBQ season, when backyard grills sizzle and friends and family gather to enjoy fresh, flavorful meals outdoors. From juicy burgers and marinated skewers to crisp salads and savory sides, summer cookouts celebrate both food and togetherness. With the right sauces and dressings, like those from Merci Mon Ami, every BBQ can be elevated into a memorable, delicious experience

Cindy MacDougall
Jun 23, 20233 min read
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