If you love dressings that strike the perfect balance between tangy and smooth, then this Creamy Dijon Vinaigrette Recipe will quickly become your new favorite. Its luscious texture combined with the zesty punch of Dijon mustard makes it incredibly versatile for enhancing fresh salads, roasted veggies, or even grilled proteins. Simple yet sophisticated, this dressing offers a delightful twist on traditional vinaigrettes by marrying creamy goodness with bright acidity, making mealtime feel just a little more special every time you pour it on.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Creamy Dijon Vinaigrette Recipe calls for straightforward ingredients that each play a key role in building flavor and texture. From the tangy Dijon mustard to the rich olive oil, every component is essential for achieving that classic creamy and zesty character.
- Dijon mustard: The star ingredient that brings both sharpness and depth of flavor to the dressing.
- Red wine vinegar (or lemon juice): Adds bright acidity to balance the creaminess with a lively, fresh note.
- Honey or maple syrup (optional): Just enough sweetness to soften the tang without overpowering the vinaigrette.
- Olive oil: Provides richness and helps emulsify the dressing for a smooth, luscious finish.
- Mayonnaise or Greek yogurt: Gives body and creaminess, making this vinaigrette irresistibly smooth.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to elevate and round out all the flavors.
- Garlic (optional): A minced clove adds a subtle savory kick that wakes up the palate.
- Fresh or dried herbs (parsley, thyme, oregano; optional): Bring a touch of herbal freshness that brightens the vinaigrette beautifully.
How to Make Creamy Dijon Vinaigrette Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Mustard, Vinegar, and Sweetener
Start by whisking together the Dijon mustard, red wine vinegar, and honey or maple syrup if you’re using it. This creates a flavorful base where the tangy, spicy, and sweet notes begin to harmonize and form the backbone of the dressing.
Step 2: Stir in the Creamy Component
Next, mix in the mayonnaise or Greek yogurt, whichever you prefer, to add that luscious creaminess that sets this vinaigrette apart. This step thickens the dressing and gives it a velvety mouthfeel.
Step 3: Slowly Add Olive Oil While Whisking
With steady whisking, drizzle in the olive oil gradually. This technique helps emulsify the dressing, blending oil and vinegar into a beautifully smooth and silky texture that clings wonderfully to your salad greens or veggies.
Step 4: Season and Flavor
Now it’s time to add salt and pepper to taste, plus minced garlic and herbs if you like. This step personalizes the dressing, layering in aromatic notes and enhancing complexity for every bite.
Step 5: Serve or Store
You can serve this delicious Creamy Dijon Vinaigrette Recipe immediately, tossing it over your favorite salads or roasted vegetables. If you want to keep it for later, simply transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to one week, remembering to stir or shake before each use as separation can happen.
How to Serve Creamy Dijon Vinaigrette Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives adds a pop of color and fresh herbal zing to salad plates dressed with this vinaigrette. Toasted nuts or seeds also complement the creamy texture with delightful crunch.
Side Dishes
This dressing pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Think grilled chicken breast, roasted asparagus, or even drizzled over warm quinoa bowls. Its creamy tang brings brightness and richness that elevate simple sides instantly.
Creative Ways to Present
Take your presentation up a notch by serving the dressing in a pretty glass jar or cruet alongside a vibrant mixed greens salad with colorful veggies. Drizzle artistically over dishes or serve as a dip for veggie sticks to impress guests with both flavor and style.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Creamy Dijon Vinaigrette Recipe keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to one week. Store it in a sealed container to preserve freshness and prevent absorption of other fridge odors.
Freezing
Because this vinaigrette contains mayonnaise or yogurt, freezing is not recommended as the texture can change and become less pleasant after thawing.
Reheating
This dressing is best served cold or at room temperature, so reheating is unnecessary. Simply give it a good stir or shake if the oil has separated before using again.
FAQs
Can I use different types of vinegar in this recipe?
Absolutely! While red wine vinegar adds nice acidity, feel free to experiment with apple cider vinegar, white wine vinegar, or even lemon juice to give a citrusy twist to your Creamy Dijon Vinaigrette Recipe.
Is Greek yogurt a healthier alternative to mayonnaise?
Yes, Greek yogurt offers a lower-fat option with added protein and a tangy flavor, making it an excellent swap that keeps the dressing creamy without compromising taste.
How can I make this dressing vegan?
To keep the dressing vegan, simply replace mayonnaise with a plant-based alternative like vegan mayo or use coconut yogurt instead of Greek yogurt.
Can I add fresh herbs to change the flavor?
Definitely! Fresh herbs like basil, tarragon, or dill can infuse your Creamy Dijon Vinaigrette Recipe with unique flavors, making it easy to tailor to different dishes or seasons.
What salads work best with this vinaigrette?
This dressing shines on crisp green salads, grain bowls, and even hearty roasted veggie salads. Its creamy texture coats leaves nicely and adds a delightful tang.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Dijon Vinaigrette Recipe is one of those magic dressings you’ll reach for again and again because it’s incredibly simple, wonderfully flavorful, and endlessly versatile. Whether you’re dressing a quick weeknight salad or adding a gourmet touch to a weekend meal, it comes together in minutes and envelopes every bite with creamy, tangy goodness. Give it a try soon — I promise it will brighten up your meals and your smile!
Print
Creamy Dijon Vinaigrette Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: About 1/2 cup (enough for 4-6 servings)
- Category: Dressing
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This creamy vinaigrette is a versatile and flavorful salad dressing that combines the tanginess of Dijon mustard and red wine vinegar with the smooth richness of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt. Perfect for dressing salads or as a dip, it offers a delightful balance of flavors with optional honey or maple syrup for a touch of sweetness, and fresh herbs or garlic for an extra kick.
Ingredients
Vinaigrette Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar (or lemon juice for a citrus twist)
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional for sweetness)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt (for a creamier texture)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 small garlic clove, minced (optional)
- 1 teaspoon fresh or dried herbs (like parsley, thyme, or oregano, optional)
Instructions
- Combine the Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, red wine vinegar (or lemon juice), and honey or maple syrup if using. This forms the tangy and slightly sweet base of the dressing.
- Add the Mayonnaise or Yogurt: Stir in the mayonnaise or Greek yogurt to introduce a creamy texture that balances the acidity and adds richness to the vinaigrette.
- Slowly Add Olive Oil: Gradually pour in the olive oil while whisking constantly to emulsify the ingredients, creating a smooth and cohesive dressing without separation.
- Season: Add salt and pepper according to your taste preferences. Mix in the minced garlic and herbs if desired to enhance the flavor profile with an aromatic depth.
- Serve or Store: Use immediately as a salad dressing or drizzle. Alternatively, store the dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Remember to shake or stir well before each use, as the oil may separate over time.
Notes
- For a vegan version, substitute mayonnaise with a plant-based alternative or use extra Greek yogurt if suitable.
- Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of honey or maple syrup based on your preference.
- The vinaigrette pairs well with a variety of salads, including greens, roasted vegetables, or grain bowls.
- Use fresh herbs for a brighter flavor; dried herbs are fine but add them sparingly as they are more concentrated.
- If you prefer a thinner dressing, add a tablespoon of water or more vinegar to reach desired consistency.
