There is something truly special about a salad dressed with a tangy, vibrant dressing that brings every bite to life. This Homemade Greek Vinaigrette Recipe is a brilliant way to elevate your greens with simple, wholesome ingredients that pack a punch of Mediterranean flavor. It effortlessly combines the rich smoothness of olive oil, the bright acidity of red wine vinegar and lemon juice, and the earthy goodness of herbs and garlic. Once you try this vinaigrette, it will quickly become your go-to for all your salads, bringing freshness and personality to every dish you serve.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients is straightforward and rewarding because each element in this vinaigrette plays a vital role, whether it’s for flavor, balance, or a pop of color. You don’t need a long list, just the essentials that work harmoniously to create this classic taste.
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil: The heart of the vinaigrette, providing richness and a silky texture.
- ¼ cup red wine vinegar: Offers a sharp, tangy base that wakes up your salad.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice: Adds fresh brightness and complements the vinegar perfectly.
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional): A little bit of tang and helps emulsify the dressing smoothly.
- 1 garlic clove, minced: Infuses a wonderful savory depth.
- 1 tsp dried oregano: Classic Greek herb that gives authenticity and aroma.
- ½ tsp dried basil: Adds subtle sweetness and complexity.
- ¼ tsp salt (or to taste): Enhances all the flavors, never underestimate its magic.
- ¼ tsp black pepper (or to taste): Offers a gentle heat and finishes the seasoning.
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup (optional): Balances acidity with a touch of natural sweetness.
How to Make Homemade Greek Vinaigrette Recipe
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
Start by adding your olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, minced garlic, and all the herbs and seasonings into a small bowl or jar. If you’re including Dijon mustard and honey or maple syrup, add those in now as well. This combination of simple ingredients creates the foundation for the bold and vibrant flavor of this dressing.
Step 2: Whisk or Shake
Whisk all the ingredients vigorously in the bowl to create a well-emulsified vinaigrette. If you’re using a jar, seal it tightly and give it a good shake. Both methods work wonderfully to blend the oil and vinegar together into a smooth, cohesive dressing.
Step 3: Taste & Adjust
Give your Homemade Greek Vinaigrette Recipe a taste. This is your moment to tweak the seasoning to your liking by adding more salt, pepper, or a little extra honey if you want to balance acidity with sweetness. The best part about homemade dressings is how customizable they are.
Step 4: Serve or Store
Use your freshly made dressing immediately over a crisp salad for maximum freshness, or pour it into a sealed container and refrigerate. It typically keeps well for 1 to 2 weeks. Just remember to shake the vinaigrette before each use, as natural separation will occur over time.
How to Serve Homemade Greek Vinaigrette Recipe
Garnishes
This vinaigrette shines best when paired with fresh, colorful veggies like cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, red onions, and Kalamata olives, which are perfect garnishes for a Greek-inspired salad experience. Crumbled feta cheese adds a creamy, tangy contrast that brightens every bite.
Side Dishes
While the dressing itself elevates salads, it also complements grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or even a Mediterranean grain bowl. Drizzle it over warm potatoes or use it as a marinade to bring those flavors alive beyond just salads.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your salad in a rustic bowl with a handful of toasted pine nuts or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like dill or mint on top to add an extra layer of texture and a burst of color. You can also mix a spoonful into creamy dips or whisk it into cooked quinoa for a flavorful side.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your Homemade Greek Vinaigrette Recipe stores beautifully in the refrigerator. Pour it into a glass jar or airtight container, and keep it chilled. Always give it a good shake before using, as the oil and vinegar naturally separate.
Freezing
Freezing vinaigrette is not recommended because the olive oil can change texture and flavor when thawed. For the best taste and texture, it is better to keep it refrigerated and use within one to two weeks.
Reheating
This recipe does not require reheating. In fact, warming it might affect the fresh herbs and olive oil flavor negatively. Simply bring it to room temperature by shaking and letting it sit for a few minutes if it’s chilled.
FAQs
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried in this Homemade Greek Vinaigrette Recipe?
Absolutely! Fresh oregano and basil will impart a brighter, more aromatic flavor to your vinaigrette. Use roughly three times the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried, and finely chop them before mixing.
Is Dijon mustard necessary in the recipe?
Dijon mustard is optional but recommended because it helps emulsify the oil and vinegar for a smoother consistency and adds a nice tangy depth. If you don’t have it, you can leave it out and the vinaigrette will still be delicious.
How long can I store this Homemade Greek Vinaigrette Recipe in the refrigerator?
Stored properly in a sealed container, the vinaigrette will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 1 to 2 weeks. Just remember to shake well before each use as separation is normal.
Can I substitute the olive oil for another oil?
Extra virgin olive oil is best because of its rich flavor, but if needed, you can substitute it with avocado oil or grapeseed oil. Keep in mind that the flavor profile will change slightly.
What type of vinegar works best for this vinaigrette?
Red wine vinegar is classic in Greek vinaigrettes due to its robust flavor, but you can experiment with white wine vinegar or sherry vinegar for a slightly different twist.
Final Thoughts
There is something incredibly satisfying about making your own dressings at home, especially when it’s as delicious and versatile as this Homemade Greek Vinaigrette Recipe. It’s fresh, flavorful, and so easy to whip up that it will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Give it a try, experiment with your favorite herbs and tweaks, and watch as your salads transform into vibrant, crave-worthy meals.
Print
Homemade Greek Vinaigrette Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 cup (approximately 11 servings, about 1 tablespoon per serving)
- Category: Salad Dressing
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Homemade Greek Vinaigrette is a simple and versatile salad dressing that combines extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, and classic Greek herbs. With a touch of garlic, oregano, and a hint of sweetness from honey or maple syrup, it brings vibrant Mediterranean flavors to any salad. It’s quick to prepare, fresh, and perfect for enhancing your greens or grilled vegetables.
Ingredients
Vinaigrette Ingredients
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
- ¼ cup red wine vinegar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional, for a bit of tang)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp dried basil
- ¼ tsp salt (or to taste)
- ¼ tsp black pepper (or to taste)
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl or jar, add the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard (if using), minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, black pepper, and honey or maple syrup (if desired).
- Whisk or Shake: Whisk the ingredients together until well combined, or if using a jar, seal it tightly and shake vigorously until the vinaigrette is emulsified and creamy in texture.
- Taste & Adjust: Taste the vinaigrette and adjust the seasonings to your preference by adding more salt, pepper, or honey for balance.
- Serve or Store: Pour the vinaigrette over your favorite salad, or refrigerate in a sealed container for up to 1-2 weeks. Shake well before each use as the ingredients may separate over time.
Notes
- Optional Dijon mustard helps emulsify the dressing and adds a slight tang.
- Honey or maple syrup balances the acidity and can be adjusted or omitted to suit taste preferences.
- Shake or whisk well before each use since vinaigrette ingredients naturally separate.
- Store in the refrigerator for freshness, and use within 1-2 weeks.
- Feel free to add fresh herbs like parsley or mint for variation.
