If you’re searching for a simple yet irresistibly flavorful dressing, this Dijon Vinaigrette Recipe is exactly what you need. It brings together the tangy richness of Dijon mustard with the subtle sweetness of honey and the bright sharpness of apple cider vinegar, creating a dressing that elevates any salad or dish. Whether you’re looking to brighten a bowl of greens or add a punch of personality to roasted vegetables, this easy-to-make vinaigrette will quickly become your go-to. It’s fresh, vibrant, and perfectly balanced—making every bite sing.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Dijon Vinaigrette Recipe lies in its simple, straightforward ingredients that combine effortlessly. Each element plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, ensuring your vinaigrette is silky, tangy, slightly sweet, and perfectly seasoned.
- Extra virgin olive oil: Brings a smooth, fruity richness that forms the base of the dressing.
- Apple cider vinegar: Adds a bright, crisp acidity to balance the oil’s richness.
- Maille© Old Style Whole Grain Dijon Mustard: Gives that signature tangy kick and a lovely texture with mustard seeds.
- Minced shallot: Provides a mild oniony sharpness that deepens the flavor complexity.
- Honey: Offers a subtle sweetness to mellow the acidity and mustard heat.
- Salt: Enhances and ties all the flavors together perfectly.
- Freshly ground pepper: Adds a gentle warmth and a hint of spice.
How to Make Dijon Vinaigrette Recipe
Step 1: Combine All Ingredients
Start by adding the extra virgin olive oil, apple cider vinegar, whole grain Dijon mustard, minced shallot, honey, salt, and freshly ground pepper into a small jar. The beauty of this step is how effortlessly everything comes together—no fancy equipment needed, just a good jar and a little shake.
Step 2: Shake to Blend
Seal the jar tightly and shake vigorously for about 30 seconds until the ingredients emulsify. This ensures that the olive oil and vinegar come together into a perfectly balanced vinaigrette rather than separating. It’s like magic in a jar!
Step 3: Chill Before Serving
Place the jar in the refrigerator to chill until you’re ready to use it. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and intensify, making your Dijon Vinaigrette Recipe taste even better. Plus, it’s always refreshing on a hot day.
How to Serve Dijon Vinaigrette Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped herbs like parsley or tarragon complements the tangy flavor beautifully. Toasted nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, add a delightful crunch when tossed over your salad with this vinaigrette.
Side Dishes
This Dijon Vinaigrette Recipe shines when drizzled over simple green salads, roasted root vegetables, or even grilled chicken and fish. It’s incredibly versatile and can elevate even the most basic side dishes to something memorable.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elegant touch, serve your vinaigrette in a small ramekin alongside your plate or drizzle it artfully in a zigzag over your salad. You can also toss it directly in a grain bowl or use it as a marinade for an extra flavor boost.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Dijon Vinaigrette Recipe in an airtight container or the original jar in your refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to one week, making it easy to enjoy throughout the week without any hassle.
Freezing
While olive oil-based vinaigrettes generally don’t freeze well because the oil can separate and change texture, this Dijon Vinaigrette Recipe is best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated. Freezing is not recommended.
Reheating
This vinaigrette is designed to be served cold or at room temperature, so reheating is unnecessary. Simply give it a good shake before using if the ingredients have settled.
FAQs
Can I use a different vinegar in this Dijon Vinaigrette Recipe?
Absolutely! While apple cider vinegar adds a lovely mild tang, you can substitute it with white wine vinegar or even lemon juice for a different bright flavor. Just keep the overall acidity in balance.
Is it possible to make this vinaigrette without honey?
Yes, you can omit the honey if you prefer a less sweet vinaigrette or use alternatives like maple syrup or agave nectar, which will add their own unique touches to the dressing.
How long does the Dijon Vinaigrette Recipe last in the fridge?
Stored properly in a sealed jar, this vinaigrette will keep well for up to one week. Always give it a good shake before using, as separation naturally occurs.
Can I use this vinaigrette as a marinade?
Definitely! The blend of acidity and mustard makes it a great marinade for chicken, fish, or even vegetables. Just let your ingredients soak for at least 30 minutes for the best flavor absorption.
What salads pair best with this Dijon Vinaigrette Recipe?
This vinaigrette works wonderfully with leafy greens like arugula, spinach, or mixed greens, as well as heartier salads featuring grains, nuts, or roasted veggies. It adds a perfect tangy and slightly sweet finish.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a homemade vinaigrette that brings a salad or dish to life, and this Dijon Vinaigrette Recipe does it so effortlessly. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you get a burst of flavor that feels fresh, balanced, and downright delicious. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover how this easy recipe transforms your meals as much as it has mine!
Print
Dijon Vinaigrette Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dressing
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: French
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Dijon Vinaigrette is a simple and flavorful dressing perfect for salads, featuring a tangy blend of Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and honey balanced with olive oil and shallots. Ready in under five minutes, it adds a delicious homemade touch to any greens or vegetables.
Ingredients
Vinaigrette Ingredients
- 1 ½ tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 ½ tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 teaspoons Maille© Old Style Whole Grain Dijon Mustard
- 1 tablespoon minced shallot
- 2 teaspoons honey
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground pepper
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: Place the extra virgin olive oil, apple cider vinegar, whole grain Dijon mustard, minced shallot, honey, salt, and freshly ground pepper into a small jar with a lid.
- Shake to Emulsify: Secure the lid tightly and shake the jar vigorously until all ingredients are thoroughly combined and emulsified, creating a smooth vinaigrette.
- Refrigerate: Store the vinaigrette in the refrigerator until ready to use, allowing the flavors to meld together for best taste.
Notes
- Shake well before each use to redistribute the ingredients.
- Store covered in the refrigerator for up to one week for optimal freshness.
- Adjust sweetness by adding more or less honey according to taste.
- This vinaigrette works well on green salads, roasted vegetables, or as a marinade.
