Tired of boring salads? Yearning for a homemade dressing that's both flavorful and easy to make? Then look no further! This creamy mustard vinaigrette recipe is your answer. It's quick, it's healthy, and it elevates any salad from simple to spectacular. This versatile dressing isn't just limited to salads; think roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or even as a marinade – the possibilities are endless! This recipe is perfect for those seeking easy recipes and healthy meal options, making it a staple for quick dinner ideas and homemade cooking.
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (adjust to your sweetness preference)
- 1 tablespoon milk or cream (whole milk adds extra creaminess)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
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Combine the wet ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, honey (or maple syrup), and milk (or cream) until well combined. This is the base of your delicious, creamy dressing.
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Add the dry ingredients: Add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until thoroughly incorporated. The mixture will emulsify beautifully, creating that wonderful creamy texture.
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Taste and adjust: Give your vinaigrette a taste. Do you want it sweeter? Add a touch more honey. Need more tang? Add a dash more vinegar. Feel free to adjust the seasoning to suit your individual preferences. This is the beauty of homemade cooking – it's all about personalization!
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Serve immediately or store: This creamy mustard vinaigrette is ready to use immediately. For best results, serve it right away to enjoy the freshest flavors. If you're making it ahead, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Give it a good shake before using.
Tips and Variations:
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Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a kick! This works wonderfully if you're using the dressing on grilled meats or vegetables.
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Herb it up: Fresh herbs, such as chives, parsley, or dill, can add a layer of freshness and complexity. Stir them in at the end for maximum flavor.
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Make it vegan: Simply omit the milk or cream for a completely vegan version of this delicious dressing.
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Go tangy: For a more assertive tang, substitute white wine vinegar or red wine vinegar for the apple cider vinegar.
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Get creative with sweeteners: Experiment with different sweeteners like agave nectar or brown sugar instead of honey or maple syrup.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
*Calories: Approximately 150-200 (depending on the type of milk/cream and sweetener used) *Fat: High in healthy fats from olive oil *Protein: Low *Carbohydrates: Moderate *Fiber: Low
This creamy mustard vinaigrette recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of delicious dishes. It’s incredibly versatile, making it perfect for everything from simple salads to more complex dishes. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this easy recipe is a guaranteed way to elevate your meals. Enjoy!