Classic French Vinaigrette Salad Dressing
A classic French vinaigrette that combines garlic, Dijon mustard, tarragon vinegar, and olive oil for a tangy, flavorful dressing perfect for salads and greens.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel garlic, slice thinly, sprinkle with a little salt, smash to a pulp with a knife.
- Place in a bowl and add mustard and sugar, then stir well.
- Add black pepper, tarragon wine vinegar, and olive oil.
- Stir well to combine.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, you can blend the vinaigrette in a food processor instead of stirring by hand. Feel free to substitute the tarragon wine vinegar with apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar if you prefer a different flavor profile. If you like a bit more sweetness, increase the sugar to taste, or try adding a touch of honey for a natural sweetener.
Serving Suggestions
This classic French vinaigrette is perfect for drizzling over mixed greens, roasted vegetables, or grain salads. It pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, including grilled chicken or fish. For a refreshing twist, consider adding fresh herbs or a bit of citrus zest to enhance the flavor profile.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover vinaigrette in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Before using, give it a good shake or stir, as the oil and vinegar may separate over time. This dressing is best served cold, so it doesn't require reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Classic French Vinaigrette Salad Dressing contains roughly 176 calories, with 0g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 501mg per serving (22% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this vinaigrette ahead of time?
Yes, this vinaigrette can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator. It actually benefits from sitting for a few hours as the flavors meld together. Just remember to shake or stir before serving.
What can I use instead of Dijon mustard?
If you don't have Dijon mustard on hand, you can substitute with whole grain mustard for a different texture or yellow mustard for a milder flavor. Keep in mind that the taste will slightly vary.
Is this vinaigrette suitable for vegan diets?
Absolutely! This vinaigrette is naturally vegan as it contains no animal products. It’s a great addition to any vegan recipes and adds a deliciously tangy flavor to salads or roasted vegetables.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).