Garlic and Dijon Salad Dressing

Garlic and Dijon Salad Dressing Recipe - Authentic French Cuisine

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

Introduction

Garlic and Dijon Salad Dressing is a flavorful and versatile dressing that can elevate any salad or dish. The combination of garlic, Dijon mustard, and white wine vinegar creates a tangy and savory flavor profile that is sure to impress your taste buds.

History

This recipe has its roots in French cuisine, where Dijon mustard is a staple ingredient in many dishes. The addition of garlic adds a bold and aromatic twist to the classic vinaigrette dressing.

Ingredients

100 ml extra virgin olive oil
2 tsp dijon mustard
3 cloves of fresh garlic
20 ml white wine vinegar
1 tsp sugar

How to prepare

Combine all the ingredients in a blender or food processor.
Pour the mixture over any green salad or use it as a substitute for mayonnaise.

Variations

Add a tablespoon of chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, for a pop of freshness.
For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Substitute balsamic vinegar for a sweeter and more robust flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to mince the garlic finely to ensure that it blends well with the other ingredients.

- Adjust the amount of sugar to your taste preference. You can also substitute honey or maple syrup for a different flavor profile.

- For a creamier dressing, you can add a tablespoon of Greek yogurt or mayonnaise.

Serving Suggestions

This dressing pairs well with a variety of salads, including mixed greens, Caesar salad, or a simple cucumber and tomato salad. It can also be used as a marinade for grilled vegetables or meats.

Cooking Techniques

Blending the ingredients in a food processor or blender helps emulsify the dressing and create a smooth consistency.

Ingredient Substitutions

Substitute apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar for the white wine vinegar.

- Use minced shallots or onion instead of garlic for a milder flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

This dressing can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a good shake before using.

Presentation Ideas

Drizzle the dressing over a salad in a decorative pattern or serve it on the side for guests to dress their own salads.

Pairing Recommendations

This dressing pairs well with a variety of dishes, including grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or a charcuterie board.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover dressing in the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature before serving. Give it a good shake or stir before using.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 100 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 1g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 11g per serving

Saturated Fat: 1.5g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 0g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin C: 0.2mg per serving

Iron: 0.1mg per serving

Alergens

Contains: Mustard

Summary

This dressing is low in carbohydrates and protein, but high in healthy fats from the olive oil. It also provides a small amount of vitamin C and iron.

Summary

Garlic and Dijon Salad Dressing is a simple yet flavorful dressing that can elevate any salad or dish. With a few basic ingredients, you can create a versatile dressing that is sure to impress your guests. Enjoy the tangy and savory flavors of this classic vinaigrette on your next salad creation.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is still fresh in my mind. It was a warm summer day, and I had just finished helping my neighbor, Mrs. Jenkins, with her garden. As a token of her gratitude, she invited me inside for a glass of iced tea and a slice of lemon pound cake.

As we sat at her kitchen table, sipping our tea and chatting about the latest neighborhood gossip, Mrs. Jenkins suddenly exclaimed, "Oh, I almost forgot! I have a new recipe that I think you'll absolutely love. It's for a garlic and Dijon salad dressing that is simply divine."

Intrigued, I leaned in closer as she rummaged through a stack of cookbooks on her shelf. Finally, she pulled out a worn, dog-eared index card with faded ink and handed it to me. "Here it is," she said with a smile. "I've been making this dressing for years, and it's always a hit at potlucks and family gatherings."

I carefully examined the recipe, taking note of the simple ingredients and easy instructions. Garlic, Dijon mustard, olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper. It seemed like a perfect balance of flavors that would complement any salad.

Over the next few days, I couldn't stop thinking about Mrs. Jenkins' garlic and Dijon salad dressing. I decided to give it a try and invited a few friends over for a summer barbecue. As they oohed and aahed over the delicious dressing, I knew I had stumbled upon a new favorite recipe.

From then on, I made it a point to always have a jar of garlic and Dijon salad dressing in my refrigerator. It became a staple at family gatherings, holiday dinners, and impromptu picnics in the park. I even started experimenting with different variations, adding a touch of honey for sweetness or some fresh herbs for a burst of flavor.

As the years went by, I shared the recipe with friends and family, passing it down through generations. Each time I made a batch of garlic and Dijon salad dressing, I would think back to that sunny afternoon in Mrs. Jenkins' kitchen, grateful for her generosity and culinary wisdom.

One day, my granddaughter came to me with a sparkle in her eye. "Grandma," she said excitedly, "I have a new recipe that I think you'll love. It's for a garlic and Dijon salad dressing that I found online."

I chuckled at the irony of the situation. Here I was, a seasoned cook with decades of experience, being introduced to a recipe by my own granddaughter. But I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and nostalgia as I read through the ingredients and instructions.

Together, we gathered the necessary ingredients and set to work in the kitchen. As we whisked together the garlic, Dijon mustard, olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper, I couldn't help but smile at the sight of my granddaughter's eager expression.

When we finally tasted the finished dressing, it was as if time had stood still. The flavors were perfect – tangy, savory, and just a hint of sweetness. My granddaughter beamed with pride, knowing that she had introduced me to a recipe that would surely become a new family favorite.

As I watched her pack up a jar of garlic and Dijon salad dressing to take home, I couldn't help but feel a sense of fulfillment. The recipe had come full circle, passing from one generation to the next, just as Mrs. Jenkins had passed it down to me so many years ago.

And as I sat in my kitchen, savoring a simple salad dressed with garlic and Dijon dressing, I knew that some recipes are more than just a list of ingredients – they are a testament to the memories, traditions, and love that we share with those around us.