Description
This Creamy Vinaigrette recipe delivers a perfectly balanced, rich, and smooth dressing that elevates salads and dishes with minimal effort. Quick to make with wholesome ingredients, it is versatile and customizable for different tastes, including dairy-free and spicy variations. Ideal for adding a gourmet touch to everyday meals, this vinaigrette blends tangy acidity with luscious creaminess and fresh herbal notes.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Ingredients
- 1/4 cup high-quality olive oil
- 2 tablespoons vinegar (white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar preferred)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
Creamy Component
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
Seasonings
- 1 small clove garlic or 1 tablespoon finely minced shallots
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional Add-ins
- Fresh herbs (such as parsley, dill, basil, tarragon), chopped
- Cayenne pepper or hot sauce (for a spicy kick)
- Freshly squeezed lemon or orange juice (for citrus twist)
- Smoked paprika or chipotle powder (for smoky flavor)
- Avocado or silken tofu (as dairy-free alternative to mayonnaise or yogurt)
Instructions
- Combine the Base Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the vinegar, Dijon mustard, and honey or maple syrup until fully blended to create the bright and sweet foundation of the vinaigrette.
- Add the Creamy Component: Gradually whisk in the mayonnaise or Greek yogurt until the creaminess is evenly incorporated throughout the mixture.
- Slowly Incorporate Olive Oil: Pour olive oil in a slow, steady stream while continuously whisking vigorously to emulsify and thicken the dressing to a smooth consistency.
- Season to Taste: Stir in finely minced garlic or shallots, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Adjust seasoning little by little, tasting as you go to find the perfect balance.
- Finish with Fresh Herbs: Chop fresh herbs of your choice and fold them into the vinaigrette just before serving to retain their bright flavor and aroma.
Notes
- Use room temperature ingredients to help the vinaigrette emulsify more easily and blend smoothly.
- Whisk vigorously for a silky, homogeneous texture.
- Adjust acidity gradually by adding vinegar slowly to avoid overpowering the creamy base.
- Chill vinaigrette before serving to enhance flavor melding and slightly thicken the texture.
- Try experimenting with oils like avocado or walnut oil for added flavor nuances.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- Freezing is not recommended as it can alter texture and cause separation.
- Serve cold or at room temperature; avoid reheating to maintain emulsion and flavor.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: No Cooking (Whisking/Emulsifying)
- Cuisine: American/Contemporary
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: creamy vinaigrette, salad dressing, easy vinaigrette, creamy salad dressing, dairy-free vinaigrette, healthy dressing, homemade vinaigrette