Description
This classic vinaigrette sauce is fresh, flavorful, and easy to make. It’s perfect for salads, roasted vegetables, and marinades. With a balance of tangy vinegar, smooth olive oil, and seasonings, this homemade vinaigrette is a healthier and tastier alternative to store-bought dressings.
Ingredients
Scale
- ¼ cup red wine vinegar (or balsamic/apple cider vinegar)
- ¾ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (helps emulsify the dressing)
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for a hint of sweetness)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Whisk Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey (if using), minced garlic, salt, and black pepper.
- Drizzle in Oil: While whisking continuously, slowly drizzle in the olive oil. This helps the vinaigrette emulsify and creates a smooth, creamy texture.
- Taste & Adjust: Taste the vinaigrette and adjust the seasoning if needed—add more honey for sweetness, more vinegar for acidity, or more olive oil for a milder flavor.
- Store: Transfer the vinaigrette to an airtight glass jar or container. Shake well before each use.
- Use: Drizzle over fresh salads, grilled vegetables, or use as a marinade for proteins like chicken or fish.
Notes
- Storage: Keep in a sealed jar in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 weeks. Shake before using if separation occurs.
- Customization: Swap out red wine vinegar for balsamic, apple cider, or white wine vinegar for different flavor variations.
- Make it Vegan: Use maple syrup instead of honey for a plant-based dressing.
- Enhance Flavor: Add fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or thyme for a more aromatic vinaigrette.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad Dressing
- Method: Whisking Cuisine
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 0.5g
- Sodium: 115mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: vinaigrette sauce ,homemade vinaigrette, salad dressing recipe, classic vinaigrette, easy vinaigrette, healthy dressing, oil and vinegar dressing