Q : Can I make Italian vinaigrette without mustard?

A : Yes, but the vinaigrette will separate more quickly. Dijon mustard acts as an emulsifier, helping the oil and vinegar bind together into a more stable dressing with a silky, well-balanced texture.

Q : Can I use balsamic vinegar instead of red wine vinegar?

A : Yes, but the flavor will be sweeter and richer. For a classic Italian vinaigrette flavor, red wine vinegar works best.

Italian Vinaigrette Recipe (Easy Homemade Italian Dressing)

Name: Italian Vinaigrette Recipe (Easy Homemade Italian Dressing)
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 tsp (10 ml) Dijon mustard; ½ tsp (2.5 ml) honey or maple syrup (optional); 1 tsp (5 ml) Italian seasoning, or dried oregano; 1 large clove garlic, finely minced or pressed; Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; ¼ cup (60 ml) red wine vinegar; ¾ cup (180 ml) extra virgin olive oi

Description

This Italian vinaigrette recipe is a quick homemade dressing made with red wine vinegar, olive oil, garlic, Dijon mustard, and dried herbs. It’s bright, tangy, and ready in just 5 minutes

Ingredients

Scale

2 tsp (10 ml) Dijon mustard

1/2 tsp (2.5 ml) honey or maple syrup (optional)

1 tsp (5 ml) Italian seasoning, or dried oregano

1 large clove garlic, finely minced or pressed

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

1/4 cup (60 ml) red wine vinegar

3/4 cup (180 ml) extra virgin olive oi

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Instructions

1. Build the base
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the Dijon mustard, honey (if using), Italian seasoning, garlic, salt, pepper, and red wine vinegar.

2. Emulsify the dressing
Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously until the dressing is smooth and emulsified.
(If using a jar, simply seal and shake well.)
Chef’s Tip: Adding the oil slowly helps create a stable emulsion so your dressing stays beautifully combined.

3. Taste and adjust
Taste and adjust seasoning—add more vinegar for acidity or a touch more honey to balance.

Notes

Storage Instructions

Fridge: Store in a clean jar or airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. The olive oil may solidify, so let the dressing sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes and shake well before serving.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Salad Dressing
Method: No-cook
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 93
Sugar: 0.1 g
Sodium: 16.7 mg
Fat: 10.5 g
Carbohydrates: 0.3 g
Protein: 0 g
Cholesterol: 0 mg