There’s something magical about drizzling a tangy dijon vinaigrette dressing over crisp greens that elevates your salad from “meh” to “magnificent.” The zesty flavor bursts forth, tantalizing your taste buds and turning every bite into a symphony of deliciousness. Imagine the vibrant colors of fresh vegetables contrasting with the golden hue of the dressing as it dances on your plate, teasing you to dive in.
Now, let me take you back to a sunny afternoon picnic with friends when I first realized how life-changing this dijon vinaigrette dressing could be. As we sat on our checkered blanket, I watched my friend pour this liquid gold over her salad, transforming it into an irresistible masterpiece. Suddenly, everyone wanted a taste, and it became the star of our picnic. Let’s just say, if salad dressing were an award-winning actor, this one would own an Oscar.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This simple dijon vinaigrette dressing balances tangy and sweet flavors beautifully
- It takes mere minutes to whip up and can elevate any dish
- The vibrant colors make it visually appealing for any gathering
- Perfect for salads but versatile enough for marinating meats or drizzling over roasted vegetables
I distinctly remember my uncle’s reaction when I brought this vinaigrette to a family barbecue—his eyes widened in delight as he poured it generously over his grilled veggies.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
-
Dijon Mustard: Choose a good quality mustard for that sharp flavor that brings everything together beautifully.
-
Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for its rich flavor; it makes all the difference in your dressing.
-
Red Wine Vinegar: This adds acidity and depth; avoid substitutes like white vinegar for best results.
-
Honey or Maple Syrup: A touch of sweetness balances the acidity perfectly; adjust according to your taste.
-
Salt and Pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper enhances flavor; season generously but taste as you go.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Gather Your Ingredients: Start by assembling all your ingredients on the kitchen counter. This makes preparation smooth and enjoyable as you mix everything together.
Mix the Base: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of dijon mustard and 2 tablespoons of red wine vinegar until well combined. The fragrance will awaken your senses!
Add the Olive Oil: Slowly drizzle in 1/2 cup of extra virgin olive oil while whisking continuously. This emulsification process creates a creamy texture that clings beautifully to salads.
Sweeten It Up: Stir in 1 tablespoon of honey or maple syrup until fully incorporated. Taste along the way—you want that perfect balance between tartness and sweetness.
Season with Salt and Pepper: Add salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste, mixing well after each addition. Adjust seasoning based on personal preference; don’t hold back!
Store or Serve Immediately: Enjoy right away or transfer to an airtight container for storage in the fridge. It keeps well for up to two weeks—if you can resist devouring it all sooner!
Now you’re ready to drizzle your homemade dijon vinaigrette dressing over salads or roasted veggies! It’s time for a flavor explosion that’ll leave everyone asking for seconds.
You Must Know
- The dijon vinaigrette dressing brings a zesty punch to any dish
- Perfect for salads, it enhances flavors and adds a delightful tang
- The fresh ingredients ensure a vibrant color and aroma that can brighten up even the dullest of meals
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by whisking together Dijon mustard, vinegar, and oil in a bowl. This ensures all flavors blend beautifully before adding herbs or spices for an extra kick.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the vinegar; balsamic or apple cider can add unique flavors. A sprinkle of honey can also balance the tanginess while giving it a sweeter note.
Storing & Reheating
Store your dijon vinaigrette dressing in an airtight container in the fridge. It lasts up to a week, but fresh is always better!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve the best flavor, use high-quality Dijon mustard; it makes all the difference
- Adjust the oil-to-vinegar ratio based on your taste preference for balance
- Always shake well before serving to mix ingredients that may separate over time
Cooking with my mom meant our kitchen often smelled like Dijon mustard and fresh herbs. Her secret? Letting it sit overnight so the flavors could mingle like old friends.
FAQ
Can I use regular mustard instead of Dijon?
Yes, but you will miss out on that signature tangy flavor from Dijon.
How long does dijon vinaigrette dressing last?
Stored properly in the fridge, it lasts about one week without losing its zest.
What can I pair this dressing with?
It’s excellent on salads, roasted vegetables, or as a marinade for meats!

Tangy Dijon Vinaigrette Dressing
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: About 8 servings 1x
Description
Elevate your salads with this quick and easy Dijon vinaigrette dressing. The perfect blend of tangy mustard, rich olive oil, and a hint of sweetness creates a flavor explosion that will transform any dish into a gourmet experience. Ideal for drizzling over fresh greens or marinating meats, this versatile dressing is sure to impress at your next gathering.
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard and red wine vinegar until well combined.
- Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously to create an emulsion.
- Stir in honey or maple syrup until fully incorporated, adjusting sweetness to taste.
- Season with salt and black pepper, mixing well after each addition.
- Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Sauce/Dressing
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 30g
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg