If you’re looking for a quick and delightful way to elevate your salads, you’ve come to the right place! This Apple Cider And Dijon Mustard Vinaigrette is not just any dressing; it’s a zesty blend that brings the perfect balance of sweetness and tang. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this recipe is one of my go-to favorites. It adds a burst of flavor to any green salad or grain bowl, making your meals feel special without requiring much effort.

What I adore about this vinaigrette is how simple it is to whip up. With just a few ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry, you can create something truly delicious that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: You can make this vinaigrette in just 5 minutes—perfect for those last-minute meal prep moments!
Versatile Flavor: The sweet and tangy notes pair wonderfully with a variety of salads and dishes.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Whip it up ahead of time and store it in the fridge for easy access all week long.
Wholesome Ingredients: Made with simple, wholesome ingredients that are good for you and your family.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Apple Cider And Dijon Mustard Vinaigrette uses simple, wholesome ingredients that combine beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Vinaigrette

1/2 cup olive oil
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
2 tbsp maple syrup
4 tsp Dijon mustard
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp pepper
1/4 tsp salt

Variations

One of the best things about this vinaigrette is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on your taste preferences or what you have on hand.

Add Fresh Herbs: Toss in some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil for an extra layer of flavor.
Spice It Up: If you like a little heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.
Use Different Sweeteners: Swap out maple syrup for honey or agave nectar depending on what you prefer.
Citrus Twist: Add a splash of fresh lemon or orange juice for a bright citrusy note.

How to Make Apple Cider And Dijon Mustard Vinaigrette

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. Having everything ready makes the process smooth and fun!

Step 2: Combine Everything in a Jar

Add the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper into a mason jar. Using a jar is not only practical but also adds some charm to your preparation!

Step 3: Shake It Up!

Secure the lid tightly on your mason jar and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds. This step is crucial because shaking helps emulsify the oil and vinegar, creating that luscious creamy texture we all crave in a vinaigrette.

Step 4: Serve Immediately

Once well mixed, pour your delightful Apple Cider And Dijon Mustard Vinaigrette over your favorite salad or grain bowl. Enjoy the burst of flavors as it brings all your ingredients together beautifully!

And there you have it—a simple yet delicious dressing that will transform your meals! Enjoy experimenting with this versatile vinaigrette!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Cider And Dijon Mustard Vinaigrette

Creating the perfect vinaigrette is all about balance and technique, so here are some handy tips to ensure your dressing turns out delicious every time!

Use fresh ingredients: Fresh olive oil and high-quality apple cider vinegar will enhance the flavor of your vinaigrette, giving it a vibrant taste that bottled dressings can’t replicate.
Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter dressing, feel free to add more maple syrup. It’s important to taste as you go—this allows you to customize the vinaigrette to your liking!
Experiment with herbs: Adding fresh or dried herbs like thyme, basil, or oregano can bring an extra layer of flavor. These herbs pair beautifully with the tanginess of the mustard and vinegar.
Shake it up: For the best emulsification, shake your mason jar vigorously! This process is not only fun but crucial for combining the oil and vinegar into a creamy dressing.
Store properly: Keep any leftover vinaigrette in the refrigerator. Just remember to give it a good shake before using it again, as separation is natural.

How to Serve Apple Cider And Dijon Mustard Vinaigrette

This vibrant dressing isn’t just for salads; it’s versatile enough to elevate any dish! Here are some wonderful ideas on how to present and enjoy your Apple Cider And Dijon Mustard Vinaigrette.

Garnishes

Chopped fresh herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or chives on top of your salad for a burst of freshness and color.
Toasted nuts: Add a handful of toasted walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that complements the vinaigrette perfectly.
Crumbled cheese alternatives: For a creamy finish without using dairy, try crumbling some plant-based feta or goat cheese alternative over your salad.

Side Dishes

Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, or carrots provide earthiness that pairs well with the tangy dressing.
Quinoa Bowl: A fluffy quinoa bowl mixed with diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and chickpeas makes for a hearty side that absorbs the flavors of the vinaigrette beautifully.
Grilled Asparagus: Lightly grilled asparagus drizzled with this vinaigrette adds a touch of elegance to any meal while enhancing its flavors.
Classic Hummus Platter: Serve this vinaigrette alongside fresh veggies and whole grain crackers with hummus for a healthy appetizer option that everyone will love!

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to enjoy your homemade Apple Cider And Dijon Mustard Vinaigrette in numerous delicious ways!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Apple Cider And Dijon Mustard Vinaigrette is perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch in just a few minutes and store it for your salads throughout the week. Here’s how to keep it fresh and tasty.

Storing Leftovers

Store the vinaigrette in an airtight container or mason jar.
Keep it in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Always shake well before using, as separation may occur.

Freezing

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the vinaigrette if needed.
Pour it into an ice cube tray and freeze until solid.
Transfer the frozen cubes to a freezer bag for longer storage, using them as needed.

Reheating

There’s no need to heat this vinaigrette; simply thaw if frozen and shake well before serving.
For refrigerated leftovers, allow it to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before shaking.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious vinaigrette.

What is Apple Cider And Dijon Mustard Vinaigrette used for?

Apple Cider And Dijon Mustard Vinaigrette is versatile! Use it on salads, grain bowls, or as a marinade for vegetables. It adds a delightful tangy flavor that elevates any dish.

How long does Apple Cider And Dijon Mustard Vinaigrette last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, your Apple Cider And Dijon Mustard Vinaigrette will last up to one week. Just give it a good shake before using!

Can I substitute ingredients in this vinaigrette?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap out maple syrup for honey or agave if you prefer. You can also try different mustard varieties if you want to experiment with flavors.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This vinaigrette is fantastic for meal prep. Make a batch ahead of time and store it in the fridge for quick salad dressings throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Apple Cider And Dijon Mustard Vinaigrette as much as I do! It’s quick, easy, and adds a burst of flavor to any salad or bowl. Don’t hesitate to try different variations and make it your own. Happy cooking!