5-Minute Maple Vinaigrette
This quick and easy 5-Minute Maple Vinaigrette is a perfectly balanced, homemade dressing that elevates any salad with its sweet and tangy notes. Far healthier and more flavorful than store-bought alternatives, it's a staple for fresh greens.
For 4 servings
Gather all your ingredients and select a small jar with a tight-fitting lid (like a Mason jar) or a small mixing bowl with a whisk.
Into the jar or bowl, measure and add the apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and pure maple syrup.
Add the sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to the mixture.
If using a bowl, whisk vigorously for about 30 seconds until the mustard and syrup are fully dissolved and the mixture is well combined. If using a jar, secure the lid and shake briefly.
Slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil while continuously whisking if using a bowl, or add all the olive oil to the jar.
If using a jar, secure the lid tightly and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds until the dressing is fully emulsified and appears creamy and uniform. If whisking, continue until the dressing is smooth and no longer separated.
Taste the vinaigrette and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You might want to add a pinch more salt, pepper, a touch more maple syrup for sweetness, or a bit more vinegar for tang.
Serve immediately over your favorite green salad, grain bowl, or roasted vegetables. Store any leftover vinaigrette in the refrigerator.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Always use a good quality extra virgin olive oil, as its flavor is prominent in the dressing. The better the oil, the better the vinaigrette.
- 2Feel free to adjust the ratio of maple syrup to apple cider vinegar to suit your personal preference for sweetness and tanginess.
- 3Vinaigrettes are emulsions and will naturally separate over time. Simply give the jar a good shake or whisk the dressing again before each use to re-emulsify.
- 4For a thinner dressing, you can add 1-2 tablespoons of water or a neutral-flavored broth to the mixture before shaking.
Adapt it for your goals.
Herbed Vinaigrette
Add 1/2 teaspoon of dried Italian herbs, a pinch of dried oregano, or 1 tablespoon of fresh finely chopped herbs like parsley, chives, or dill for an aromatic twist.
Garlic VinaigretteGarlic Vinaigrette
Mince 1 small clove of garlic very finely or use 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder and add it to the mixture for a savory, pungent kick.
Spicy Maple VinaigretteSpicy Maple Vinaigrette
Introduce a hint of heat by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the dressing.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Heart-Healthy Fats
Extra virgin olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fatty acids, which are known to support cardiovascular health and help lower bad cholesterol levels.
Digestive Aid
Apple cider vinegar contains acetic acid, which may aid digestion, improve nutrient absorption, and contribute to a healthy gut microbiome.
Reduced Sodium and Sugar
Making your own vinaigrette allows for precise control over the amount of salt and sugar, significantly reducing intake compared to many store-bought dressings which can be high in both.
Frequently asked questions
When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, this homemade maple vinaigrette will stay fresh for up to 1 week. Always shake well before each use.
