What is a classic vinegar & oil dressing made of?
A classic vinegar & oil dressing consists of vinegar, oil, salt, pepper, and optionally some water and mustard. Unlike a vinaigrette, the ingredients are not strictly defined and can vary as you like. You can replace the vinegar and oil in your salad dressing with lemon juice, yogurt, mayonnaise, or crème fraîche.
Overview of popular salad dressings
- Classic vinaigrette — savory
- Yogurt dressing — fresh
- Honey-mustard dressing — sweet and spicy
- Italian dressing — with herbal notes
The base: A good oil
Which oil should you use for a classic dressing?
- Extra virgin olive oil: Fruity, robust, bitter — suits Mediterranean salads
- Walnut oil: Warm and nutty — ideal for winter salads with pears or beetroot
- Pumpkin seed oil: Intense and nutty — for leafy salads and apple cider vinegar vinaigrette
- Linseed oil: Earthy — classic with potato and quark salads
- Grape seed oil: Neutral — ideal as a balanced base
The second main ingredient: Vinegar
- White wine vinegar: Classic, fruity, versatile
- Apple cider vinegar: Mild and fruity, naturally aromatic
- Balsamic: Sweet and deep, ideal for beetroot and tomatoes
- Sherry vinegar: Complex and nutty — a Spanish touch
- Red wine vinegar: Robust — suits hearty winter salads
Basic Vinaigrette Recipe
- 3 tbsp high-quality olive oil
- 1 tbsp white wine vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 1 tsp medium-hot mustard
- 1 tsp honey (optional)
- Salt, pepper
Preparation: Place all ingredients in a screw-top jar and shake vigorously until a creamy emulsion forms.
Variations
- With fresh herbs: Parsley, chives, tarragon
- With garlic: One pressed clove for a Mediterranean touch
- With lemon zest: For extra freshness
- With shallots: Finely diced for rustic depth
