Dressings & Dips
Dijon Vinaigrette
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Prep
5 minutes
Cook
none
Total
5 min
Serves
about 3/4 cup (180 ml)
Sharp, tangy, and lightly creamy, a Dijon vinaigrette that emulsifies into a dressing that clings to greens instead of sliding off. The mustard does double duty as flavor and binder.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) red wine vinegar
- 1 tbsp (15 g) Dijon mustard
- 1 small shallot, minced
- 1 tsp honey
- 6 tbsp (90 ml) olive oil
- salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- 1Whisk the vinegar, Dijon, shallot, and honey together until combined.
- 2Slowly stream in the olive oil while whisking constantly until thick and emulsified.
- 3Season with salt and pepper. Whisk again before serving if it separates.
Cook's Note
For a dressing that stays emulsified longer, make it in a jar and shake hard, or blend it. The shallot mellows if you let the vinaigrette sit 10 minutes before using.
Best Served With
Tossed with crisp greens, spooned over roasted vegetables, or used as a marinade for chicken.
Why This Recipe Works
Dijon is an emulsifier: it holds the oil and vinegar together so the dressing stays creamy instead of splitting. Adding the oil slowly, in a stream, is what builds a stable emulsion rather than a slick.
Make It Yours
- Swap red wine vinegar for sherry or champagne vinegar
- Whisk in a spoonful of mayonnaise for a creamy Dijon dressing
- Stir in chopped tarragon or chives
Leftover Strategy
Keeps refrigerated for up to 2 weeks. The oil firms up cold, so let it come to room temperature and shake before using.
Common Questions
What is the ratio for Dijon vinaigrette?
Roughly three parts oil to one part vinegar, with a tablespoon of Dijon to bind and flavor it. Adjust to taste.
How do you keep vinaigrette from separating?
The Dijon emulsifies it. Stream the oil in slowly while whisking, or shake it hard in a jar. It will still separate over time, so shake again before using.
How long does Dijon vinaigrette keep?
Up to two weeks refrigerated. Bring it to room temperature and shake before serving.
Want to impress guests with this dish? Ask Jeff
Pairing
Works as a component. The salad or dish it dresses sets the pairing.