Easy Dijon Mustard Vinaigrette

List of ingredients

Made with high-quality ingredients and no preservatives, this simple Dijon vinaigrette 

• Olive oil: Olive oil is the base for this vinaigrette. It adds richness and smoothness to the dressing. I recommend an olive oil extra virgin for best flavor. You can replace it with any vegetable oil like sunflower, canola oil, walnut oil etc.
• White wine vinegar: White wine vinegar adds an acidic kick with a hint of sweetness.
• Dijon mustard: Dijon mustard adds a robust flavor to the vinaigrette. It is a natural emulsifier and helps the vinegar and oil to combine to gives the vinaigrette a tangy flavor and a creamy texture.  You can also use a simple or whole grain mustard.
• Garlic: It’s an optional ingredient. It adds a deep savory flavor to the vinaigrette. You can replace garlic with shallots.
• Salt and black pepper: Salt enhances the flavors and black pepper adds a subtle kick to the dressing. 

The ratio

In my opinion, the suggested ratio of 3:1, meaning 3/4 parts olive oil to 1/4 part vinegar, often found in many recipes, tends to result in a vinaigrette that is excessively oily. For the best flavor, I recommend using a ratio 1:2, 1 part vinegar to 2 parts oil. 

The classic method

The classic vinaigrette should usually be prepared with a whisk or a fork. 

• Step 1: Add the white wine vinegar and the salt in a small bow, whisk to dilute the salt.
• Step 2: Add the Dijon Mustard and mix. 
• Step 3: While whisking continuously, slowly pour the olive oil into the bowl in a steady stream. Keep whisking until the mixture thickens and emulsifies.
• Step 4: Add garlic or shallots (optional) and whisk one last time.

The lazy method

Even if it’s not the classic method, I like to prepare my vinaigrette in a small container such as a mason jar or a small glass bottle with lid. Using a jar reduces the number of utensils needed for making vinaigrette. Instead of using a small bowl and a whisk or fork, you can use the jar for both mixing and storage. 

• Step 1: In a small jar or container, add the white wine vinegar, salt, Dijon mustard. 
• Step 2: Pour the olive oil at once and close the lid. Shake for a few seconds until the vinaigrette emulsifies. 
• Step 4: Add garlic or shallots (optional) and whisk one last time.

Variation ideas 

Add the following things to your Dijon Mustard Vinaigrette and make it even more tasteful.

• Honey/Maple Syrup: Add sweetness to your vinaigrette by incorporating honey or maple syrup.
• Lemon: To add a citrus flavor, substitute vinegar for lemon juice.
• Vinegar: You can use red wine or apple cider vinegar instead of white wine vinegar for a different flavor profile. However, note that each type of vinegar will add a unique taste to the vinaigrette.
• Fresh or dried herbs: Add different herbs, such as parsley, chives, thyme or rosemary to give your dressing a unique flavour.

Geraldine’s tips

If you’re preparing Dijon Mustard Vinaigrette for the first time, here are some helpful tips to ensure optimal results:

1. For best results, pour the vinaigrette onto your salad just a couple of minutes before serving to make sure the salad leaves remain fresh and crisp.
2. Adjust the taste by adding olive oil if the dressing is too acidic, or a little vinegar and mustard if it is too bland.
3. I recommend serving the dressing at room temperature for maximum flavor.
4. Prepare a generous amount of Dijon mustard vinaigrette and keep it in your fridge to always have an homemade salad dressing to prepare quick salad recipes during busy weeknights.