Tangy, sweet, and bursting with fresh flavor, this Apple Cider Honey Dijon Vinaigrette is the quick and easy dressing your salads and grain bowls have been waiting for! Made with simple pantry staples, it comes together in minutes and adds the perfect zesty kick to just about anything.
Oriana’s Thoughts On The Recipe
There’s something magical about a homemade vinaigrette that makes any salad or grain bowl taste extra special—and this Apple Cider Honey Dijon Vinaigrette is one of those little kitchen wins I keep coming back to. I honestly keep a jar in the fridge at all times … I’ve been drizzling this over everything. Think leafy green salads, roasted veggies, bowls, grilled chicken—you name it! It’s my go-to flavor booster, and the best part is that it comes together with ingredients I usually already have in my pantry. No fuss, no mystery ingredients—just a quick shake and boom, done!
What I Love About This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need, Substitutions & Notes
Please check the recipe card at the bottom of the post for exact quantities and detailed instructions (scroll down).
- Apple Cider Vinegar: This brings the tang and a subtle fruity depth. If you don’t have it, white wine vinegar or lemon juice can work in a pinch, but the flavor will be different.
- Honey: Adds a touch of natural sweetness to balance the acidity. You can swap it with maple syrup or agave if needed.
- Dijon Mustard: The zippy kick that ties everything together. It also helps emulsify the dressing. If you’re out, spicy brown mustard is a decent sub.
- Italian Herbs Seasoning: A flavorful blend of dried herbs that adds an herby note without overpowering. You can use dried oregano or thyme if that’s what you have on hand.
- Salt & Black Pepper: Essential for rounding out all the flavors. Adjust to taste.
- Olive Oil: The base of the vinaigrette. Use extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor, but any mild oil will work in a pinch.
Food Allergy Swaps
- This recipe is naturally egg, dairy, wheat/gluten, nut, peanut, soy, sesame, fish, and shellfish-free, making it suitable for most dietary needs, but always check labels for hidden allergens.
- Mustard Allergy: Omit the Dijon and add a little lemon zest and juice for zing.
Potential Recipe Challenges & Pro Tips
- The oil separates quickly: It’s totally normal for oil and vinegar to separate after sitting for a bit. Pro Tip: Just give it a quick shake or stir before serving. If you want to keep it emulsified a little longer, add a teaspoon of mayo or Greek yogurt!
- It tastes too sharp: Apple cider vinegar can be quite strong if you’re not used to it. Pro Tip: If you prefer a milder flavor, add an extra teaspoon of honey or a splash of water to mellow it out.
Process Overview: Step-by-Step Photos
Please check the recipe card at the bottom of the post for exact quantities and detailed instructions (scroll down).
Step 1 – Mix the Flavor Base
In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. It’ll look a little cloudy and smell amazing—that’s totally normal! You’re building all the flavor right here.
Step 2 – Add the Olive Oil Magic
Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while you keep whisking. This helps everything blend together smoothly and gives the dressing that creamy, silky texture. Just whisk until it looks like one happy, blended mixture.
Helpful Tip
Don’t feel like whisking? Just toss all the ingredients into a jar with a tight lid and give it a good shake-shake-shake until it all comes together. Super easy, and no whisk required!
Step 3 – Store It Right
Pop your vinaigrette in the fridge, and it’ll stay fresh for up to a week. Just a heads-up—the olive oil might firm up a little when chilled. No worries! Let it sit on the counter for a few minutes, give it a quick stir or shake, and it’s good to go.
Extra Recipe Tips For Success
- Use a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid to shake and store the dressing—easy mixing and no extra dishes!
- Taste the vinaigrette before serving and adjust the seasoning if needed. A pinch of sugar or more salt can totally change the flavor.
- Want a thicker texture? Blend it up for 30 seconds using a mini blender or immersion blender.
Variations & Additions
- Garlic-Lovers Version: Add 1 small clove of minced garlic or 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Creamy Twist: Whisk in a spoonful of Greek yogurt or mayonnaise for a creamier version.
- Citrus Touch: Add a splash of orange or lemon juice for extra brightness.
Ways to Use Apple Cider Honey Dijon Vinaigrette
Don’t be afraid to get creative—this dressing elevates just about anything! Here are some ideas:
- Tossed with salads – Perfect on mixed greens, spinach, or arugula with apples, nuts, and cheese.
- Drizzled over roasted veggies – Try it with roasted carrots, sweet potatoes, or Brussels sprouts.
- As a marinade – Great for chicken, pork, or even tofu before grilling or roasting.
- Grain bowls – Add a tangy-sweet kick to quinoa, farro, or rice bowls with veggies and protein.
- Pasta salads – Use it to dress cold pasta salads for a light, zesty flavor.
- Dipping sauce – Serve it with crusty bread, roasted potatoes, or chicken tenders.
- Sandwich spread – Whisk with a bit of mayo or Greek yogurt for a flavorful sandwich or wrap spread.
- Slaw dressing – A tasty twist on classic coleslaw—light, tangy, and slightly sweet.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
To Store: Keep the vinaigrette in a sealed jar or container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. Give it a good shake before each use.
To Freeze: I don’t recommend freezing this dressing—it’s best fresh. The texture and flavor can change after thawing.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Recipe Card
Apple Cider Honey Dijon Vinaigrette
Ingredients
- 1/3 cup (80 ml) apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon (25 g) honey, (or more, depending on whether you prefer it a bit sweeter)
- 1/2 tablespoons (11 g) Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian herbs seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 tablespoons (45 ml) olive oil
Important
You can find step-by-step photos above in the post and/or right here on the recipe card. They’ll walk you through the process and make everything super clear! Just click the camera icon button below on the right to show or hide them. Turn them off before printing if you prefer a cleaner copy!
Instructions
Mix the Flavor Base:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper.
Add the Olive Oil:
- Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while you keep whisking. This helps everything blend together smoothly and gives the dressing that creamy, silky texture. Just whisk until it looks like one happy, blended mixture.
Alternatively, Shake It Up (Easy Option!):
- Don’t feel like whisking? Just toss all the ingredients into a jar with a tight lid and give it a good shake-shake-shake until it all comes together. Super easy, and no whisk required!
Store It Right:
- Pop your vinaigrette in the fridge, and it’ll stay fresh for up to a week. Just a heads-up—the olive oil might firm up a little when chilled. No worries! Let it sit on the counter for a few minutes, give it a quick stir or shake, and it’s good to go.
- This recipe is naturally egg, dairy, wheat/gluten, nut, peanut, soy, sesame, fish, and shellfish-free, making it suitable for most dietary needs, but always check labels for hidden allergens.
- Mustard Allergy: Omit the Dijon and add a little lemon zest and juice for zing.
- The oil separates quickly: It’s totally normal for oil and vinegar to separate after sitting for a bit. Pro Tip: Just give it a quick shake or stir before serving. If you want to keep it emulsified a little longer, add a teaspoon of mayo or Greek yogurt!
- It tastes too sharp: Apple cider vinegar can be quite strong if you’re not used to it. Pro Tip: If you prefer a milder flavor, add an extra teaspoon of honey or a splash of water to mellow it out.
- Use a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid to shake and store the dressing—easy mixing and no extra dishes!
- Taste the vinaigrette before serving and adjust the seasoning if needed. A pinch of sugar or more salt can totally change the flavor.
- Want a thicker texture? Blend it up for 30 seconds using a mini blender or immersion blender.
- Garlic-Lovers Version: Add 1 small clove of minced garlic or 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Creamy Twist: Whisk in a spoonful of Greek yogurt or mayonnaise for a creamier version.
- Citrus Touch: Add a splash of orange or lemon juice for extra brightness.
I appreciate your feedback, and it helps others, too!
Nutrition information provided is an estimate and will vary based on cooking methods and brands of ingredients used.
