Vinaigrette (Basic)
A versatile and tangy vinaigrette with mustard, vinegar, lemon, and oils, perfect for salads, grilled fish, or meats, customizable with add-ins for extra flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put mustard in the bottom of a salad bowl.
- Stir the first 5 ingredients, whisking constantly.
- Add vegetable oil and olive oil in a very thin stream while whisking.
- Use shortly after it is made.
- Add whatever you like, such as garlic, anchovies, shallots, sliced mushrooms, chopped capers, etc.
- May be used on grilled fish, cold roast beef (add horseradish), or chicken.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier vinaigrette, consider adding a tablespoon of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt. If you want to enhance the flavor, try incorporating herbs like fresh basil or parsley. You can also substitute the red wine vinegar with apple cider vinegar for a sweeter taste. Feel free to adjust the mustard and lemon juice to balance the acidity to your liking. This vinaigrette pairs beautifully with Mediterranean recipes, especially on salads.
Serving Suggestions
This vinaigrette is versatile and can be drizzled over mixed greens or roasted vegetables. It also complements grilled fish and can elevate the flavors of cold roast beef, especially when horseradish is added. Consider using it in a Chicken Garden Saute for an extra zing or as a dressing for a Zucchini-Pepper Stir-Fry to brighten the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover vinaigrette in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Before using, give it a good shake or whisk to recombine the ingredients, as they may separate over time. Note that the flavors may intensify while stored, so taste and adjust seasoning if necessary before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Vinaigrette (Basic) contains roughly 25 calories, with 0g protein, 0g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 590mg per serving (26% 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, you can prepare the vinaigrette a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and give it a good shake before using. The flavors will meld beautifully, but remember that fresh ingredients like lemon juice may lose some vibrancy over time.
What can I use instead of Dijon mustard?
If you don't have Dijon mustard, you can substitute it with yellow mustard or even a grainy mustard for a different texture. However, be aware that this may alter the flavor profile slightly, so adjust other seasonings accordingly.
How do I make a vegan version of this vinaigrette?
This recipe is already vegan-friendly! To enhance the flavor, consider adding a splash of maple syrup or agave nectar for sweetness. You can also experiment with different types of vinegar or add nutritional yeast for added depth.
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).