Apple Cider Vinegar Dressing

This apple cider vinegar dressing strikes the perfect balance of tangy and sweet. It pairs with fresh greens, grains, roasted vegetables, or as a marinade for your protein.

Apple Cider Vinegar Dressing Ingredients

To make this simple homemade vinaigrette, you'll need the following ingredients. Refer to the recipe card for the full list of ingredients and measurements.

• Apple cider vinegar: The star of the show adds bright, tangy acidity with a fruity flavor.
• Olive oil: Provides body and rounds out the vinegar's sharpness. A high-quality extra-virgin olive oil gives the richest flavor.
• Honey: The honey offers balance without making the dressing too sweet.
• Spicy brown mustard: Mustard helps the dressing emulsify and stay mixed longer.
• Shallot: Shallots have a mild, sweet flavor. They add more flavor without the harsh bite of raw onion. It also helps cut through the richness of the oil, helping the vinaigrette taste brighter.
• Garlic: Grated or minced adds a kick of flavor.
• Salt and black pepper: Salt balances the acidity of the vinegar, while black pepper adds a hint of heat. Add these to taste.

How to Make Apple Cider Vinegar Vinaigrette

The following are the steps and process images to make apple cider vinegar dressing. Refer to the recipe card for the complete set of instructions.

Step 1: Prepare the ingredients. Finely mince the shallot and grate the garlic.

Step 2: Mix ingredients. In a small bowl, whisk the apple cider vinegar, shallots, garlic, honey, spicy brown mustard, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Add olive oil. Slowly whisk in the olive oil until the dressing is smooth and thickened.

Step 4: Season. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary.

How to Store Apple Cider Vinegar Dressing

Store the dressing in a sealed jar in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. It may solidify after a day, so let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before using. Shake or whisk before serving.

Variations and Substitutions

Vinegars: Use white wine vinegar instead of ACV for a milder tang. Other alternatives include rice vinegar, red wine vinegar, and balsamic vinegar.

Oil: If the olive oil flavor is too strong, use a mixture of neutral oils, such as half avocado oil and half olive oil.

Mustard: If you don't have spicy brown mustard, Dijon mustard is also a suitable alternative.

Sweetener: For a vegan dressing, use maple syrup instead of honey.

Optional Add-ons: For a burst of flavor and freshness, add 1 tablespoon of finely chopped herbs, such as thyme, rosemary, chives, dill, or parsley, just before serving. You can also use dried herbs. A pinch of chili flakes adds more heat and flavor. To brighten the dressing, add lemon juice or lemon zest.

Jar Dressing: If you're short on time or don't have a whisk, combine ingredients in a mason jar, seal the lid, and shake vigorously before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best oil to use?

Extra-virgin olive oil is ideal because it adds depth and complexity to this simple vinaigrette without adding many other ingredients. It gives the dressing a rich, smooth texture and a well-rounded flavor.

What ratio of vinegar to oil?

For this dressing, I use a 2:1 oil-to-vinegar ratio for a sharper vinaigrette. You can also use a 3:1 oil-to-vinegar ratio or a milder flavor.

Can you blend the apple cider vinegar dressing?

You can blend the dressing, but it often turns into a thicker, sauce-like emulsion rather than a light vinaigrette. Blending also incorporates air, which can dull the delicate flavors and intensify stronger ones, like garlic. A whisked or shaken vinaigrette stays lighter and is easier to reuse the next day.

Can you make an apple cider vinegar dressing without mustard?

Mustard contributes creaminess, tang, and helps emulsify the dressing. You can leave it out completely or substitute tahini, which adds a nutty flavor and even creamier texture.

More Dressing Recipes

• Lemon Vinaigrette Dressing: Simple, fresh, tangy, and full of flavor.
• Balsamic Vinaigrette: The perfect balance of tartness and a touch of sweetness.
• Creamy Avocado Lime Dressing: Creamy, delicious, and perfect for any salad.

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