The tangy aroma of dijon vinaigrette dressing wafts through the kitchen, promising a flavor explosion that pairs perfectly with any salad. Picture this: a vibrant bowl brimming with crisp greens, crunchy veggies, and that delightful drizzle that turns an ordinary meal into an extraordinary feast.
I still remember the first time I whipped up this dressing for a family gathering. My cousin took one bite and exclaimed, “Is this magic in a bottle?” From that day on, dijon vinaigrette became my secret weapon at potlucks and dinner parties!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This dijon vinaigrette dressing is a breeze to prepare, taking only minutes to whip together
- Its zesty flavor profile elevates salads and marinades alike
- The gorgeous golden hue adds visual appeal to any dish
- Perfect for drizzling over grilled veggies or marinating meats!
I once served this dressing to my friends during a backyard barbecue, and they couldn’t get enough. They even started calling it “the good stuff”!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Dijon Mustard: Choose a good quality mustard for the best flavor; it should be smooth and creamy.
Red Wine Vinegar: This adds a fruity acidity; opt for unfiltered varieties for more robust flavors.
Olive Oil: A high-quality extra virgin olive oil will enhance the richness of the vinaigrette.
Honey or Maple Syrup: A touch of sweetness balances the tanginess; adjust according to your taste preference.
Salt and Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper gives it a nice kick while salt enhances all flavors.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Ingredients: Gather all your ingredients. Measuring them out beforehand makes the mixing process smoother and ensures you don’t forget anything essential.
Mix the Base: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of dijon mustard with 2 tablespoons of red wine vinegar until well combined.
Add Olive Oil Gradually: Slowly drizzle in 6 tablespoons of olive oil while whisking constantly. This helps emulsify the dressing and creates that silky texture we crave.
Sweeten It Up: Stir in 1 teaspoon of honey or maple syrup, depending on what’s on hand. Adjust sweetness as needed by tasting along the way.
Season to Perfection: Finally, sprinkle in salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Whisk again until everything is beautifully blended.
Serve or Store: Drizzle immediately over your salad or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. Shake before using if stored.
Enjoy your homemade dijon vinaigrette dressing! You’ll find it elevates not just salads but also grilled veggies and even roasted chicken!
You Must Know
- Dijon vinaigrette dressing is not just a salad topper; it elevates any dish with its zesty flavor
- This dressing can be tailored to your taste, making it perfect for various salads or marinades
- The aroma of freshly whisked vinaigrette will entice your guests!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve the best results, start by whisking together the Dijon mustard and vinegar before slowly adding oil. This sequence ensures emulsion and perfect consistency.
Add Your Touch
Consider customizing your Dijon vinaigrette dressing with herbs like thyme or basil for added flavor. You can also swap out olive oil for avocado oil for a unique twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store your Dijon vinaigrette in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks. Shake well before using to re-emulsify any ingredients that may separate.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality Dijon mustard for a more intense flavor profile
- If you prefer a sweeter vinaigrette, add honey or maple syrup gradually
- Always taste before serving to adjust seasoning as needed
Creating this Dijon vinaigrette dressing reminds me of my grandmother’s kitchen, where every ingredient was chosen with love and laughter filled the air.
FAQ
What is the best way to store Dijon vinaigrette dressing?
Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for freshness.
Can I use Dijon vinaigrette on cooked vegetables?
Absolutely! It adds a delightful zing to roasted or grilled veggies.
How can I make a creamier version of this dressing?
Incorporate Greek yogurt or sour cream for extra creaminess and flavor depth.
Dijon Vinaigrette Dressing
Dijon Vinaigrette Dressing is a flavorful, zesty addition to any salad that transforms ordinary greens into a culinary delight. With its perfect balance of tanginess and sweetness, this dressing takes just minutes to prepare and can elevate grilled veggies and marinades alike. Whip up this versatile vinaigrette for your next potluck or dinner party, and watch your guests rave about “the good stuff”!
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 6 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard and red wine vinegar until well combined.
- Gradually drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously to emulsify the dressing.
- Stir in honey or maple syrup, adjusting sweetness as desired.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste, whisking until blended.
- Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dressing
- Method: Whisking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: <1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
