French Salad Dressing Recipes

My kitchen is where I take great pleasure in crafting the perfect flavor blend, and my recipe for French Salad Dressing epitomizes that. It all starts with olive oil, an essential heart-healthy fat, just like all the fats in my recipes.

Then comes white wine vinegar, which delivers the necessary punch that makes a salad sing. The white wine vinegar also acts as a preservative and helps to stabilize the dressing, which makes it a good candidate for scaling up.

Then comes Dijon mustard, which is way more than a never-see-the-synagogue type of ingredient; it’s a big-time player in this rustic emulsion. Following along the path to flavor town: honey (or maple syrup, if that’s your jam), minced garlic, salt, freshly ground black pepper, and dried tarragon.

Ingredients

Olive Oil: High in beneficial monounsaturated fats, which are good for the heart.

Adds acidity, brightens flavors, and is low in calories: White Wine Vinegar.

Mustard, Dijon: Mellow, spicy, adds dimension, low-cal.

Natural sweetener; adds a touch of sweetness; full of antioxidants.

Garlic offers a strong flavor and fundamental depth.

It is a source of health-promoting compounds.

Tarragon: Instills a delicate anise flavor, making it aromatic.

Enhances the profile of taste.

Ingredient Quantities

• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup white wine vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried tarragon

Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl of medium size, combine well by whisking together the following: Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.

2. While ensuring that the mixture is emulsified, slowly drizzle in the white wine vinegar, all the while whisking like there is no tomorrow.

3. Slowly add the olive oil, in a steady stream, while you whisk continuously. The result should be a smooth and creamy dressing.

4. Add the dried tarragon, and stir it into the dressing until it is evenly distributed.

5. Sample the dressing and correct the seasoning with extra salt and pepper if you wish.

6. Put the dressing in a jar that has a tight-fitting lid to store it easily and to serve it conveniently.

7. Before each use, shake the jar vigorously to ensure that the dressing is mixed thoroughly and evenly.

8. Pour the dressing over your desired salad greens and mix gently until thoroughly combined.

9. Refrigerate any remaining dressing and use it within a week for peak freshness.

10. Savor your homemade French dressing on a medley of salads or use it to marinate vegetables and meats before grilling.

Equipment Needed

1. Medium mixing bowl
2. Whisk
3. Measuring cups and spoons
4. Chef’s knife
5. Cutting board
6. Jar with a tight-fitting lid

FAQ

• What can I use instead of white wine vinegar?You can use apple cider vinegar or champagne vinegar in its place for an equally tangy taste.
• Can I use another type of mustard?Certainly, whole grain mustard or yellow mustard can be used; however, the flavor will be different—Dijon’s flavor is more refined.
• Is there a vegan alternative for honey?As a vegan alternative to honey, you can use agave syrup or maple syrup.
• How long can I store this dressing?The dressing can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
• Can I use fresh tarragon instead of dried?You can absolutely use fresh tarragon as a substitute. Use approximately 1 tablespoon of fresh tarragon.
• What type of olive oil is best for this recipe?The rich flavor of extra virgin olive oil makes it a popular choice.
• Can I omit the garlic?Indeed, you can leave out garlic if you want a subtler flavor, or you can use garlic powder if you want less of a punch.

Substitutions and Variations

Substitute with either avocado oil or grapeseed oil for a neutral flavor.
White wine vinegar: Use alternatives such as apple cider vinegar or champagne vinegar.
Dijon mustard: Substitute with whole grain mustard or yellow mustard for a milder flavor profile.
Honey: Substitute maple syrup or agave nectar for a vegan alternative.
Garlic: If fresh garlic is unavailable, use 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder.