Dijon Vinaigrette

Authentic French Dijon Vinaigrette Recipe - Vegan Delight

Region / culture: France | Preparation time: 5 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegan diet

Introduction

Dijon Vinaigrette is a classic French dressing that adds a tangy and flavorful kick to salads, vegetables, and meats. This versatile vinaigrette is easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste preferences.

History

Dijon Vinaigrette originated in the Dijon region of France, known for its mustard production. The combination of Dijon mustard, vinegar, and olive oil creates a delicious dressing that has been enjoyed for centuries.

Ingredients

1 tbsp finely minced shallot
1 tbsp dijon mustard
0.25 cup red wine or cider vinegar
0.67 cup extra virgin olive oil
sea salt and freshly ground pepper

How to prepare

Whisk together all the ingredients and serve in small dipping bowls.

Variations

Add honey or maple syrup for a touch of sweetness.
Mix in fresh herbs like parsley or tarragon for added flavor.
Use balsamic vinegar instead of cider vinegar for a different taste.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Use high-quality Dijon mustard for the best flavor.

- Adjust the amount of vinegar and olive oil to suit your taste preferences.

- Store any leftover vinaigrette in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Serving Suggestions

Drizzle over a mixed green salad with grilled chicken or salmon.

- Use as a marinade for vegetables before grilling.

- Serve as a dipping sauce for crusty bread.

Cooking Techniques

Whisking the ingredients together helps emulsify the vinaigrette and create a smooth texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use red wine vinegar or white wine vinegar instead of cider vinegar.

- Substitute shallots with finely minced garlic or red onion.

Make Ahead Tips

This vinaigrette can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the vinaigrette in small dipping bowls alongside a salad or vegetable platter. - Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad in a decorative pattern for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay.

- Serve with a charcuterie board for a delicious appetizer.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover vinaigrette in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

- Let the vinaigrette come to room temperature before serving if it solidifies in the refrigerator.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

130 per serving

Carbohydrates

1g per serving

Fats

14g per serving

Proteins

0g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This vinaigrette is a good source of vitamin E and healthy fats.

Alergens

Contains mustard

Summary

Dijon Vinaigrette is a flavorful dressing that is low in carbohydrates and protein, but high in healthy fats and vitamin E.

Summary

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the excitement that washed over me when I first saw this recipe for Dijon Vinaigrette. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Sophie at her cozy cottage by the lake. Sophie was an incredible cook, and she always had a way of making even the simplest dishes taste extraordinary.

As we sat down for lunch that day, she served us a simple green salad drizzled with the most delicious vinaigrette I had ever tasted. When I asked her what the secret was, she smiled and handed me a handwritten recipe for her Dijon Vinaigrette.

I read over the recipe carefully, taking note of the simple ingredients and the precise measurements. Sophie explained that she had learned this recipe from her mother, who had learned it from her grandmother. It was a family recipe that had been passed down through generations, and now she was sharing it with me.

I knew right away that I had to learn how to make this vinaigrette for myself. Sophie graciously offered to teach me, and we spent the rest of the afternoon in her kitchen, chopping, mixing, and tasting until we had perfected the recipe.

The key to the vinaigrette, Sophie explained, was the perfect balance of tangy Dijon mustard, sweet honey, and acidic vinegar. She showed me how to slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking vigorously to create a smooth and creamy emulsion.

After a few tries, I finally got the hang of it. The vinaigrette was light, flavorful, and incredibly versatile. It was the perfect accompaniment to any salad, adding a burst of flavor that elevated even the simplest greens.

From that day on, I made Sophie's Dijon Vinaigrette every chance I got. It became a staple in my kitchen, a go-to dressing that never failed to impress. I served it at family gatherings, dinner parties, and picnics in the park. Everyone raved about it, and I was proud to share the recipe with anyone who asked.

Over the years, I added my own twist to the vinaigrette, experimenting with different types of vinegar, herbs, and spices. I discovered that a touch of fresh garlic or a sprinkle of dried herbs could take the vinaigrette to a whole new level of deliciousness.

I even started making batches of the vinaigrette to give as gifts to friends and family. They always appreciated the homemade touch, and many of them asked for the recipe so they could make it themselves.

As time went on, I continued to refine and perfect the recipe for Dijon Vinaigrette. It became a labor of love, a way for me to connect with my family's culinary heritage and share a taste of my own kitchen with others.

Now, whenever I make a fresh batch of Dijon Vinaigrette, I think back to that sunny day at Sophie's cottage by the lake. I remember the joy and excitement I felt as I learned to make this simple yet extraordinary dressing, and I am grateful for the memories and friendships that have been nourished by this delicious recipe.

So here it is, my beloved recipe for Dijon Vinaigrette, passed down through generations and shared with love. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do, and that it brings a little taste of happiness to your kitchen and your table. Bon appétit!