Maple Dijon Dressing

This maple Dijon dressing transforms ordinary salads into memorable meals with its perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. I discovered this recipe years ago when trying to recreate a dressing from my favorite restaurant, and it's become my go-to option for elevating everyday meals.

I first created this dressing when hosting an impromptu dinner party, and guests were asking for the recipe before dessert was even served. Now I keep a jar in my refrigerator at all times for quick meal solutions.

Ingredients

• Maple syrup. Adds natural sweetness and complexity look for pure maple syrup not pancake syrup for the best flavor.
• Dijon mustard. Provides tanginess and helps emulsify the dressing choose a smooth variety for the best texture.
• Garlic. Adds depth and subtle bite fresh is vastly superior to pre minced for this recipe.
• Apple cider vinegar. Creates brightness and acidity use raw unfiltered for additional health benefits if available.
• Olive oil. Forms the base of the dressing an extra virgin variety will provide the best flavor profile.
• Kosher salt. Enhances all the other flavors diamond crystal brand gives you more control over saltiness.
• Black pepper. Adds subtle spice freshly ground provides the most aromatic experience.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Gather Ingredients.

Measure all ingredients and have them ready beside your mixing bowl or jar this ensures nothing gets forgotten and makes the process seamless.

Combine Base Ingredients.

Add the maple syrup Dijon mustard minced garlic apple cider vinegar salt and pepper to your container the order matters as placing the oil in last helps with emulsion.

Add Oil Gradually.

Pour the olive oil in a thin stream while whisking continuously this slow addition creates a stable emulsion that won't separate quickly.

Emulsify Thoroughly.

Whisk vigorously for about 30 seconds or shake your jar for 15 seconds until the dressing becomes slightly thickened and unified in color this indicates proper emulsification has occurred.

Taste and Adjust.

Dip a lettuce leaf into the dressing to properly taste it add more salt for savory notes more maple syrup for sweetness or more vinegar for tanginess as needed.

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The small amount of garlic in this dressing completely transforms the flavor profile. I once accidentally doubled the garlic when making this for a holiday gathering, and while it was still delicious, the subtle balance of flavors was overshadowed. That taught me that sometimes restraint with powerful ingredients creates the most elegant results.

Make Ahead and Storage

This dressing actually improves with time as the flavors meld together in the refrigerator. I recommend making it at least 30 minutes before serving if possible. Store in a glass jar or container with a tight-fitting lid for up to one week. The dressing will naturally separate when chilled, which is completely normal. Simply remove from the refrigerator about 10 minutes before serving to allow the oil to soften, then shake vigorously to recombine.

Versatile Uses

This maple Dijon dressing goes far beyond just salad greens. Try it drizzled over roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts, carrots, or sweet potatoes to add brightness and complexity. It makes an excellent marinade for grilled chicken or salmon when you want a quick flavor boost. One of my favorite applications is using it as a dipping sauce for crusty bread or as the finishing touch on grain bowls with quinoa or farro. The versatility of this dressing means one batch can enhance multiple meals throughout your week.

Perfect Pairings

The sweet-savory profile of this dressing pairs exceptionally well with bitter greens like arugula, radicchio, or kale, as it helps balance their natural intensity. For a stunning salad, combine mixed greens with sliced apples or pears, toasted walnuts, and crumbled blue cheese, then dress with this maple Dijon creation. The dressing also complements grain-based salads containing farro, quinoa, or wild rice. For protein pairings, it enhances the flavor of grilled chicken, roasted salmon, or even sliced steak without overwhelming them.

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Recipe FAQs

→ Can I substitute the maple syrup with another sweetener?

Yes, you can substitute honey or agave nectar for maple syrup, though each will impart a slightly different flavor. Honey will give a floral sweetness, while agave provides a neutral sweetness. Adjust quantities to taste as these alternatives may have different sweetness levels.

→ How long does homemade Maple Dijon Dressing last?

When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, this dressing will stay fresh for up to one week. Natural separation may occur during storage, so simply shake or whisk again before using.

→ Can I use a different type of vinegar?

Absolutely! While apple cider vinegar provides a fruity tang that complements the maple syrup beautifully, red wine vinegar works well as mentioned in the recipe. White wine vinegar or champagne vinegar would also be excellent substitutes for a slightly milder acidity.

→ What dishes pair well with Maple Dijon Dressing?

This versatile dressing pairs wonderfully with many dishes including green salads (especially those with fruits, nuts, or cheese), roasted vegetables (particularly root vegetables), grain bowls, as a marinade for chicken or pork, or drizzled over steamed vegetables for added flavor.

→ Is this dressing vegan?

Yes, this Maple Dijon Dressing is naturally vegan as it contains no animal products. All ingredients including maple syrup, Dijon mustard, garlic, vinegar, olive oil, salt and pepper are plant-based.

→ How can I adjust the consistency of the dressing?

For a thicker dressing, increase the amount of Dijon mustard by 1-2 teaspoons. For a thinner consistency, add an extra tablespoon of vinegar or a small amount of water. The emulsification process (thorough whisking or shaking) also affects thickness, so be sure to mix well.