Easy Mustard Vinegar Dressing Recipe: 3 Quick Variations for Salads & Marinades

How to Make Mustard Vinegar Dressing (3 Easy Variations)

This simple mustard vinegar dressing takes just 5 minutes to prepare and transforms any salad or marinade. No special equipment needed—just whisk together common ingredients for a tangy, restaurant-quality result. Perfect for beginners and busy cooks!

Basic Mustard Vinegar Dressing Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together mustard, vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth.
2. Slowly drizzle in olive oil while continuously whisking until fully emulsified.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.

3 Delicious Variations

1. Arugula & Goat Cheese Salad

• Ingredients: 4 cups baby arugula, 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese, 1/4 cup sliced almonds, 1 tablespoon balsamic reduction
• Instructions: Toss arugula with 2 tablespoons basic dressing. Top with goat cheese, almonds, and balsamic reduction.

2. Grilled Chicken Grain Bowl

• Ingredients: 1 cup cooked quinoa, 1 grilled chicken breast (sliced), 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, 1/4 cup pickled red onions, 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
• Instructions: Whisk 1 tablespoon whole-grain mustard with 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar, 2 tablespoons avocado oil, and lemon zest. Toss with quinoa, chicken, tomatoes, and onions. Top with parsley.

3. Roasted Beet & Citrus Salad

• Ingredients: 2 roasted beets (sliced), 1 blood orange (segmented), 1/2 fennel bulb (thinly sliced), 1/4 cup microgreens
• Instructions: Combine 1 tablespoon yellow mustard, 2 tablespoons champagne vinegar, 3 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon honey, and orange zest. Toss with beets, oranges, and fennel. Top with microgreens.

Pro Tips for Perfect Dressings

1. Emulsion Secret: Always whisk vinegar and mustard first before adding oil. Cold ingredients help maintain stability.
2. Oil Choice: Use extra virgin olive oil for richness, avocado oil for creaminess, or grapeseed oil for lightness.
3. Storage: Keep in glass jars for best results. Separation is normal—just shake well before use.
4. Marinade Hack: Add 1 extra tablespoon mustard to your dressing for meat marinades. Marinate chicken or pork for 2-4 hours for maximum tenderness.

Choosing Quality Ingredients

Mustard Selection:

Brand	Type	Best For
Grey Poupon	Dijon	Fancy dressings, steak sauces
Maille	Whole Grain	Heartier salads, rustic dishes
French's	Yellow	Mild-flavored dishes, kids' meals

Vinegar Selection:

Brand	Type	Best For
Redmond	Apple Cider	Bold green salads
Luxury Selection	White Wine	Delicate seafood dishes
Napa Valley Naturals	Champagne	Elegant dinner parties

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does homemade mustard vinegar dressing last?

Homemade mustard vinegar dressing typically lasts 1-2 weeks when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The acidity from vinegar acts as a natural preservative, while mustard helps maintain emulsion stability. Always shake well before use.

Can I make mustard vinegar dressing without oil?

Yes! Use 3 parts vinegar to 1 part mustard with a touch of honey for balance. This oil-free version works well for dipping or light dressings, though it won't have the creamy texture of oil-based versions.

Why does my dressing separate?

Separation occurs when oil and vinegar aren't properly emulsified. To fix: 1) Whisk vinegar and mustard thoroughly before adding oil, 2) Add oil slowly while whisking continuously, 3) Use cold ingredients. If separation happens, simply whisk vigorously or add 1/2 teaspoon mustard to re-emulsify.

What's the difference between mustard types?

Dijon (pH 3.2-4.0) offers sharp complexity ideal for sophisticated dishes. Whole-grain (pH 3.5-4.2) provides rustic texture and visible seeds for hearty salads. Yellow mustard (pH 3.5-4.5) delivers mild tanginess perfect for beginners and kid-friendly meals.

Why This Works

Mustard's natural emulsifiers (mucilage) bind oil and vinegar while adding depth, and vinegar's acidity brightens flavors without overpowering. This science-backed combination creates balanced dressings that elevate everyday meals. For maximum health benefits, use organic vinegars with "mother" and extra virgin olive oil—no added sugars or preservatives needed.