What is a sun-drenched farmers market, bursting with greens and vibrant tomatoes? You have a salad idea but the dressing isn’t cutting it. Why? What is the best Dijon Vinaigrette Recipe? What is a flavor explosion? It’s so much more vibrant and exciting than your average ranch, and it can be ready in about five days. Is there any store bought stuff that will make you stop buying it?
What is Dijon Vinaigrette?
Think of Dijon as a classic French dressing, but with sassy, mustard-y twist. Is it essentially an emulsion, which is just a fancy way of saying you’re whisking together oil and water? Is vinegar (or lemon juice) a harmonious blend? How does Dijon mustard work as an emulsifier? Is this peppery and tangy combination good for your taste buds? Is vinegar better than oil and vinegar?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Seriously, I could go on and on about why I’m completely obsessed with this Dijon Vinaigrette Recipe. First off, the flavor is out of this world. The Dijon mustard adds a lovely depth and complexity that’s both tangy and savory. It perfectly balances the acidity of the vinegar and the richness of the oil, creating a dressing that’s incredibly versatile.
What I love most about this vinaigrette is how ridiculously easy it is to make. You literally just whisk everything together in a bowl! No fancy equipment needed, and it comes together in under 5 minutes. This one’s a lifesaver on busy weeknights when you want a quick and healthy salad to go with dinner.
Plus, it’s so much more cost-effective than buying bottled dressings. You probably already have most of the ingredients in your pantry, so you can whip up a batch whenever the craving strikes. I always find myself reaching for it – and my family does too! We use it on everything from simple green salads to roasted vegetables. It really does transform anything it touches. It’s way more interesting than a basic balsamic vinaigrette, and it keeps longer than you’d think!
How do I make Dijon Vinaigrette?
Quick Overview
Making this Dijon Vinaigrette Recipe is so easy, it’s almost embarrassing. Simply whisk together Dijon mustard, vinegar (or lemon juice), Olive Oil, and your favorite seasonings. That’s it! The key is to whisk vigorously until the dressing is smooth and emulsified, so the oil and vinegar don’t separate. It’s seriously fool-proof and so much better than anything you can buy in a store!
Ingredients
For the Vinaigrette
* 1/4 cup Dijon mustard: I prefer a smooth Dijon, but you can use a whole-grain mustard for a more rustic texture.
* 1/4 cup vinegar (red wine or Apple Cider): Red wine vinegar gives it a classic tangy flavor, but apple cider vinegar adds a subtle sweetness that I adore. Lemon juice works great too!
* 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil: Use a good quality olive oil for the best flavor. You can also use avocado oil for a lighter taste.
* 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional): If you like a touch of sweetness, a little honey or maple syrup is a great addition. I don’t always add it, but it can balance out the acidity nicely.
* Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste: Don’t skimp on the salt and pepper! They really bring out the flavors of the other ingredients.
* Optional: 1 clove garlic, minced: For a bolder, more pungent flavor, add a clove of minced garlic. I love it, but it’s not for everyone!
What are the steps to
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Make sure you have all your ingredients measured out and ready to go. What is the best way to prepare a recipe for breakfast?
Step 2: Whisk Together the Mustard and Vinegar
In a small bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard and lemon juice. Set aside. What is the base of a vinaigrette?
Step 3: Slowly Drizzle in the Olive Oil
While whisking constantly, slowly drizzle in Olive Oil. This is important for creating an emulsion, so be patient and go slowly. When the vinaigrette starts to thicken, it should become creamy.
Step 4: Add Sweetener and Seasonings
If using, add honey or maple syrup. Then, season with salt and pepper to taste. If you’re adding minced garlic, now’s the time to do it!
Step 5: Taste and Adjust
Give the vinaigrette a taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. What is the best way to add more salt, pepper, or mustard to your recipe? This is your chance to make it perfect!
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
What’s your favorite way to serve Dijon Vinaigrette over grilled meats? Can you use it as a marinade or dipping sauce?
What should I serve it with?
What are some of the best ways to make Dijon Vinaigrette? Is it really versatile?What is a simple green salad?What’s your go-to book? What’s a good side dish to serve with mixed greens? I sometimes add cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a sprinkle of feta cheese for extra flavor.For Roasted VegetablesWhat are some good ways to serve roasted vegetables with vinaigrette? I love it on roasted Brussels sprouts, asparagus, and Sweet Potatoes. It really brings out their natural sweetness.As a Marinade:Use it as a marinade for chicken, fish, or pork. What is the difference between Dijon mustard and vinegar?As a Dipping Sauce: How do I make Serve it as a dipping sauce for crudités, grilled artichokes, or even chicken tenders. My kids love dipping their veggies in it!
How do I make Dijon Vinaigrette?
How do I take my Dijon Vinaigrette recipe to the next level?Use High-Quality Ingredients:What is the best vinaigrette? What is the best Olive Oil to use for cooking?Whisk Vigorously:Whisk the vinaigrette vigorously until it’s smooth and emulsified. How do you prevent oil and vinegar from separating?What is Taste and Adjust?Don’t be afraid to taste and adjust the seasonings to your liking. Is it possible to add more salt, pepper, vinegar, or mustard?How do I get creative with add-ins?Experiment with different add-ins to customize your vinaigrette. Add minced garlic, chopped herbs, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra flavor.Let It Sit:If you have time, let the vinaigrette sit for at least 30 minutes before serving. How do you get the flavors to meld together?
What are some Storing and Reheating Tips?
What is the best way to make Dijon Vinaigrette? Is it safe to store it in an airtight container?Room Temperature:I don’t recommend leaving it at room temperature for more than a couple of hours, as the oil and water will be sticky. When vinegar starts to separate from water, it will start to crack.Refrigerator Storage: HowStore it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If the vinaigrette is not thick, let it come to room temperature or whisk it again. Before serving.How do I use I don’t recommend freezing this vinaigrette, as the emulsion may break down and the texture may become grainy.
Glaze Timing Advice: N/A
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
This Dijon Vinaigrette Recipe is a game-changer. It’s easy to make, incredibly versatile, and bursting with flavor. Seriously, once you try it, you’ll never go back to store-bought dressing again! If you love this, be sure to check out my other amazing homemade Salad Dressing recipes. I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out – let me know in the comments below! Happy dressing!
Dijon Vinaigrette Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, Dijon mustard, white wine vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
