This simple dijon vinaigrette is one of those staple recipes that makes everything better. It’s tangy, a little sweet, and comes together in minutes using pantry staples. Whether you’re dressing a leafy green salad, drizzling it over grain bowls, or using it as a marinade—this homemade dressing is a flavorful upgrade from the store-bought stuff. Plus, you get to customize it with oil and vinegar of your choice.
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Table of Contents
Why you’ll love it
- Quick & easy: Comes together in just 5 minutes—no blender needed (though you can totally use one!).
- Totally customizable: Use your favorite oil, vinegar, and sweetener to make it your own.
- Versatile: Perfect for salads, grain bowls, roasted veggies, and even as a marinade.
- Make-ahead friendly: Store it in the fridge and enjoy fresh, zippy flavor all week long.
Is dijon vinaigrette healthy?
Definitely! This dressing is made with wholesome, real-food ingredients and packs heart-healthy fats when you use oils like olive or avocado oil.
- Healthy fats: Olive oil and avocado oil are rich in monounsaturated fats, which are linked to better heart health and reduced inflammation. One 2022 meta-analysis found that people who consumed more olive oil-–up to 20g (about 1.5 tablespoons) a day—had a lower risk of heart disease and lived longer overall.—
- Dijon mustard: Made from mustard seeds, which contain glucosinolates—compounds that have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which may help reduce chronic inflammation and support overall health.
- You can adjust the salt and sweetness: Store bought dressings can sneak in added sugar and sodium. When you make it yourself, you’re in control, you get to decide what goes in and what stays out.
What ingredients do you need?
Here’s what you’ll need to make this flexible vinaigrette:
- Oil: Your choice—olive, avocado, sesame, or canola oil, whatever you prefer works.
- Vinegar: Pick your favorite type—balsamic, red wine, apple cider, champagne or white wine vinegar.
- Dijon mustard: The star ingredient that gives this vinaigrette its signature tang.
- Maple syrup or honey: Just a touch to balance out the acidity with a little sweetness.
- Garlic: Freshly minced for added depth and brightness.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors and brings the dressing to life.
- Black pepper: Adds a subtle kick and rounds out the taste.
How do you make dijon vinaigrette?
You’ve got options depending on your tools and mood:
1. Whisk method (recommended)
Toss all the ingredients into a bowl and whisk vigorously until smooth, creamy, and perfectly emulsified.
2. Shake method
Add everything to a mason jar or any container with a tight lid. Shake like you mean it for 20–30 seconds until the dressing comes together beautifully.
3. Blender method:
Pour all the ingredients into a blender or small food processor. Blend on low for 15–20 seconds until silky smooth.
Whichever way you choose, taste and tweak it to make it your own!
Customize it your way
Like all of my recipes, this dijon vinaigrette is completely customizable. Mix and match ingredients based on what you love and what’s already in your pantry:
- Oil of your choice: Go for extra virgin olive oil for a rich Mediterranean vibe, avocado oil for a neutral base, or sesame oil if you want a bold, nutty twist.
- Vinegar of your choice: Want it punchy? Go with red wine vinegar. Prefer something milder? Champagne vinegar is a great choice. Any vinegar you choose will add its own unique flavor
- Sweetener swaps: Stick with maple syrup to keep it plant-based or honey for a classic vinaigrette flavor. You can also omit it entirely for a tangier dressing.
Meal prep and storage tips
Serving tip: This vinaigrette is especially delicious on kale salads, peppery arugula with sliced apples, or even roasted sweet potatoes and quinoa bowls.
Make ahead: Whip up a batch and store it in an airtight jar in the fridge. It stays fresh and flavorful for up to 1 week.
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Customizable Dijon Vinaigrette
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup oil of your choice, (extra virgin olive oil, avocado oil, sesame oil, or canola oil)
- 1/4 cup vinegar of your choice, (balsamic, apple cider, red wine, champagne vinegar, or white wine vinegar)
- 2 teaspoons high-quality Dijon mustard
- 2 teaspoons maple syrup or honey
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic, (about 1 clove)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Whisk Method (recommended): Add all ingredients to a medium bowl. Use a whisk or handheld milk frother to vigorously mix until smooth and emulsified.
- Shake Method: Add all ingredients to a mason jar or other sealable container. Shake well for 20–30 seconds until combined and creamy.
- Blender Method: Add all ingredients to a blender or small food processor. Blend on low speed for 15–20 seconds until smooth.
- Taste and adjust any seasonings to your liking. Store in the fridge for up to 1 week and shake or whisk again before each use, as separation is natural.
Notes
Nutrition
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