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easy salad dressing recipe

Easy Olive Oil and Herb Vinaigrette

A versatile, 5-minute homemade salad dressing that combines olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and simple pantry ingredients for a fresh, flavorful vinaigrette that outshines any store-bought option.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Classic Vinaigrettes
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 84
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Basic Vinaigrette
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil best quality you can afford
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar raw and unfiltered preferred
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup for vegan option
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 teaspoon sea salt or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Optional Flavor Enhancers
  • 1 small garlic clove minced or pressed, optional
  • 1 teaspoon fresh herbs such as chives, dill, or basil, optional
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried herbs like oregano, thyme, or Italian seasoning, optional

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Measuring spoons
  • Glass jar with lid (for storage)

Method
 

  1. In a medium bowl, combine the apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
  2. Whisk these ingredients vigorously until the mixture becomes smooth and the honey is fully dissolved.
  3. While continuously whisking, slowly drizzle in the olive oil in a thin, steady stream to create a proper emulsion.
  4. If using, add the minced garlic and fresh or dried herbs, stirring to incorporate them evenly throughout the dressing.
  5. Taste the dressing and adjust seasoning as needed - more vinegar for acidity, more oil for richness, more honey for sweetness.
  6. For best flavor development, let the dressing rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
  7. Just before serving, give the dressing a final quick whisk or shake, then drizzle over your salad.

Notes

  • For a creamier variation, add a teaspoon of Greek yogurt or a small piece of ripe avocado.
  • Refrigerate leftovers for up to one week in an airtight container.
  • Allow refrigerated dressing to sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before use, as olive oil solidifies when chilled.
  • Double the recipe for meal prep convenience throughout the week.