This Maple Dijon Dressing is the kind of recipe that upgrades everything it touches. Sweet, tangy, and well-balanced, it comes together in just minutes and instantly makes salads, bowls, and roasted veggies more exciting.
I’m someone who is always thinking about how small additions, like a well-made dressing, can make nourishing meals even more satisfying and enjoyable! This maple dijon dressing does just that. It has all the flavors a good salad dressing needs: fat, acid, and a touch of sweetness to bring everything together.
I also love that this dressing is homemade and customizable. You control the sweetness, salt, and acidity, which means it’s easy to adapt to your taste or dietary needs. Once you make it once, you’ll likely keep a jar of it in your fridge at all times!
I use this maple dijon vinaigrette regularly in my harvest bowl recipe, where it ties together roasted vegetables, hearty grains, and protein beautifully!
Nutrition at a Glance
- Healthy Fats: The olive oil supports heart health and helps with absorption of vitamins A, D, E, and K from vegetables.
- Natural Sweetness: The maple syrup provides flavor with trace minerals like manganese and zinc!
- No Added Preservatives: Homemade dressing means fewer processed ingredients and added sugar compared to store-bought versions!
Ingredients You Need
- Maple Syrup: Adds natural sweetness and balances the tang from the vinegar and mustard. Honey can be substituted if needed!
- Dijon Mustard: Brings sharp, tangy flavor and helps emulsify the dressing. Whole-grain mustard works in a pinch.
- Garlic: Adds depth and savory flavor! Garlic powder can be used if fresh isn’t available.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: Provides brightness and acidity. If you don't have any on hand, white wine vinegar is a good alternative.
- Olive Oil: Creates a smooth, rich base with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. Use a high quality extra virgin olive oil if possible!
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors! Add to taste.
- Oregano: Adds subtle earthiness. Dried thyme or Italian seasoning can substitute.
- Grated Onion: Gives gentle onion flavor without overpowering the dressing! Shallot works well, too.
Dietary Substitutions
- Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free: This salad dressing recipe is already naturally gluten free and dairy free.
- Vegan: Make sure to use maple syrup (as written) instead of honey to keep it fully vegan
How to Make Easy Maple Dijon Dressing
- Combine Ingredients: Whisk together maple syrup, dijon, garlic, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, salt, oregano, and onion until smooth.
- Taste & Adjust: Taste the dressing and adjust to your liking. Store in the fridge for up to one week and use on salads and bowls as needed!
Dietitian Tips for Success
- Start with the mustard and vinegar! Whisking the Dijon mustard with the apple cider vinegar first helps the dressing emulsify more smoothly and prevents it from separating too quickly.
- Let it rest before serving. Allowing the dressing to sit for about 10 minutes gives the garlic, onion, and oregano time to fully bloom and round out the flavor.
- Adjust to taste. If you prefer a sweeter dressing, add an extra drizzle of maple syrup. For more tang, increase the vinegar slightly until it tastes just right to you!
- Make extra for the week. Doubling the recipe makes meal prep easier and ensures you always have a flavorful option ready to elevate quick lunches and dinners!
How to Use Maple Dijon Dressing
- Pair it with salads. I especially like it with salads that have fruits in them, or roasted veggies that need something to elevate the flavor. Try this dressing in my hearty winter arugula salad (and replace the dressing there), or my crunchy kale salad! It would also be amazing with my arugula burrata salad.
- Keep it simple with leafy greens. When you want something quick and unfussy, this maple Dijon dressing is perfect over mixed greens, kale, or spinach with a few simple toppings. It adds plenty of flavor without needing much else!
- Use it beyond salads. Try it as a finishing drizzle for roasted vegetables, a light marinade for proteins, or a sauce for grain bowls when you want everything tied together!
Storage Suggestions
Store maple dijon vinaigrette in an airtight container or jar in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. Shake or whisk well before using, as natural separation may occur!
Frequently Asked Questions
This dressing contains healthy fats, minimal added sugar, and no preservatives, making it a nutritious option when enjoyed in moderation!
Maple Dijon vinaigrette is more tangy and balanced, made with vinegar and olive oil to create a lighter, pourable dressing. Honey mustard is typically creamier and sweeter, often made with mayonnaise or yogurt, and works more like a dip or spread than a vinaigrette.
Separation is completely normal with homemade dressings since there are no emulsifiers or stabilizers. Simply shake the jar or whisk the dressing well before using to bring it back together.
More Sauces & Dips Recipes to Try
- Beet Hummus
- Healthy Chick-fil-A Sauce
- Salsa Ranch Salad Dressing
- Healthy Hidden Valley Ranch
- Creamy Cilantro Dressing
Easy Maple and Dijon Dressing Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic minced
- 2 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- ½ tablespoon onion grated
Instructions
- Whisk together maple syrup, dijon, garlic, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, salt, oregano, and onion until smooth.
- Taste the dressing and adjust to your liking. Store in the fridge for up to one week and use on salads and bowls as needed!
Notes
- Start with the mustard and vinegar! Whisking the Dijon mustard with the apple cider vinegar first helps the dressing emulsify more smoothly and prevents it from separating too quickly.
- Let it rest before serving. Allowing the dressing to sit for about 10 minutes gives the garlic, onion, and oregano time to fully bloom and round out the flavor.
- Adjust to taste. If you prefer a sweeter dressing, add an extra drizzle of maple syrup. For more tang, increase the vinegar slightly until it tastes just right to you!
- Make extra for the week. Doubling the recipe makes meal prep easier and ensures you always have a flavorful option ready to elevate quick lunches and dinners!
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