If you love a salad dressing that bursts with bright, tangy, and subtly sweet flavors, you are in for a treat with this Maple Dijon Vinaigrette Recipe. It’s a simple blend of wholesome ingredients that come together to create a dressing that’s nothing short of magic on leafy greens, roasted veggies, or even grain bowls. Imagine the sharpness of Dijon mustard perfectly balanced by the rich, natural sweetness of pure maple syrup, all tied together with the zing of apple cider vinegar and lemon juice. This dressing is the kind of kitchen secret you’ll want to share with everyone because it elevates any dish with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Maple Dijon Vinaigrette Recipe uses a handful of everyday ingredients that each play a vital role in creating its exceptional taste. With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up a dressing that is fresh, vibrant, and well-rounded.
- Olive oil: Provides a smooth, rich texture and healthy fats that help emulsify the dressing.
- Apple cider vinegar: Brings a tangy brightness that cuts through the sweetness and adds depth.
- Dijon mustard: Offers a sharp, pungent kick that balances the flavors beautifully.
- Pure maple syrup: Adds natural sweetness and a hint of warmth, setting this vinaigrette apart.
- Lemon juice: Lifts the dressing with a fresh citrusy note to enhance flavor complexity.
- Garlic powder: Infuses a subtle savory undertone that enriches the overall profile.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to taste, rounding out the vinaigrette perfectly.
How to Make Maple Dijon Vinaigrette Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Base Ingredients
Start by whisking together the apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, pure maple syrup, lemon juice, and garlic powder in a small bowl or jar. This base mixture is where your vinaigrette gets its signature tang and subtle sweetness that makes every bite so delightful.
Step 2: Emulsify with Olive Oil
Next, slowly drizzle in the olive oil while continuously whisking. This step is crucial as it helps emulsify the dressing, creating a cohesive, silky texture that clings perfectly to your salad greens and other dishes.
Step 3: Season and Rest
Season your vinaigrette with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. For the best flavor, allow the vinaigrette to rest for 10 to 15 minutes. This resting time lets the flavors mingle and develop, elevating the overall taste experience. Remember to give it a good shake or stir before each use to keep it well blended.
How to Serve Maple Dijon Vinaigrette Recipe
Garnishes
This vinaigrette pairs wonderfully with fresh herbs like chopped parsley, dill, or chives sprinkled on top. Adding some toasted nuts or seeds as garnishes will lend a satisfying crunch that complements the dressing’s smoothness.
Side Dishes
Beyond salads, try drizzling this Maple Dijon Vinaigrette Recipe over roasted root vegetables like carrots and sweet potatoes to add moisture and flavor. It’s also fantastic tossed with a warm quinoa or farro grain bowl packed with seasonal veggies.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the vinaigrette as a zesty dipping sauce alongside fresh crudités or grilled breads. You can even use it as a marinade for chicken or tofu, infusing your dishes with its bright, sweet-tangy essence and making every bite memorable.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Maple Dijon Vinaigrette Recipe in a sealed jar or airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep fresh for up to 1 week, making it a convenient and flavorful addition ready whenever you need an easy dressing fix.
Freezing
This vinaigrette is best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated and isn’t ideal for freezing, as freezing can change the texture and separation may occur. Instead, prepare it fresh in small batches to enjoy the full bright flavor.
Reheating
Since this vinaigrette is typically served cold or at room temperature, there’s no need to reheat. Simply bring it to room temperature before use if it has been chilled, then give it a good shake to recombine the ingredients.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of vinegar in the Maple Dijon Vinaigrette Recipe?
Absolutely! White wine vinegar or red wine vinegar can be used if you prefer a slightly different acidity. Just keep in mind that apple cider vinegar provides a unique fruity tang that complements the maple syrup perfectly.
Is this dressing suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes! All the ingredients in this Maple Dijon Vinaigrette Recipe are plant-based, making it a perfect vegan and gluten-free option for any salad or dish.
How long can I store this vinaigrette in the fridge?
You can safely store the vinaigrette in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Always give it a shake or stir before serving to remix any separated ingredients.
Can I adjust the sweetness in this vinaigrette?
Definitely! If you prefer a sweeter dressing, simply add a bit more maple syrup. For a tangier taste, increase the amount of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice. Tweak it to suit your personal flavor preferences.
Can I use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder?
Yes, finely minced fresh garlic can be used for a more pungent garlic flavor. Start with about half a clove and adjust to taste, keeping in mind that garlic powder offers a milder, more uniform flavor.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like a homemade dressing that’s as versatile and flavorful as this Maple Dijon Vinaigrette Recipe. It’s quick to make, uses simple ingredients, and transforms everyday meals into something special. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how it can brighten your salads, veggies, and beyond. Trust me, once you’ve tasted this dressing, it will become a kitchen favorite you’ll reach for again and again.
Print
Maple Dijon Vinaigrette Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Salad Dressing
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan, Gluten Free
Description
This Maple Dijon Vinaigrette is a simple, healthy, and flavorful salad dressing made with olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and pure maple syrup. Its perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory notes makes it ideal for drizzling over leafy greens, roasted vegetables, or grain bowls. Quick to prepare and naturally vegan and gluten-free, this dressing brings a fresh homemade touch to any dish.
Ingredients
For the Vinaigrette
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Combine acidic ingredients: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, lemon juice, and garlic powder until well combined.
- Emulsify the dressing: Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while continuously whisking the mixture to emulsify the dressing, creating a smooth and blended vinaigrette.
- Season: Add salt and black pepper to taste, adjusting to your preferred flavor balance.
- Let flavors meld: For best flavor, let the vinaigrette sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes to allow the ingredients to meld together.
- Shake or stir before serving: Always shake or stir the vinaigrette well before each use to recombine any ingredients that may have separated.
Notes
- Store the vinaigrette in a sealed jar in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- Bring to room temperature before using for best texture and flavor.
- Great for drizzling on leafy green salads, roasted vegetables, or grain bowls.
- Adjust the sweetness or tanginess by adding more maple syrup or apple cider vinegar to your taste.
