Growing up, one of the first “cooking” tasks my mom gave me was making the vinaigrette for the salad, French salad dressing. It was such a simple task, but one that felt meaningful and that I genuinely enjoyed doing.

To this day, I still make the very same French salad dressing I grew up making for my family, and honestly, I can’t imagine doing it any other way. It’s fresh, tangy, customizable, and enhances the flavor of any salad without overpowering it.

French salad dressing is absolutely delicious and ridiculously easy to make, requiring, at a minimum, vinegar, olive oil, mustard, chopped shallots, and salt and pepper—all ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.

It’s also a healthier and more cost-effective alternative to store-bought dressings, which often contain additives, artificial flavors, seed oils, sweeteners, or thickeners. Plus, if you make a large batch and properly store it in an airtight container, your dressing can last up to 10 days.

Recipe Notes

Traditional Vinaigrette Ratio:

Traditional French vinaigrette calls for a 1:3 ratio of vinegar to oil (1 tbsp vinegar: 3 tbsp olive oil). I like to add a bit more vinegar because I truly believe that extra kick elevates the flavor. If you prefer a more mellow taste, start with the classic ratio—you can always adjust as you go. I personally love my dressing on the tangier side, but if it’s too sharp for you, just add a little more olive oil to balance it out!

Mix Vinegar and Salt First

To evenly distribute the seasoning, whisk the salt into the vinegar before adding the oil and other ingredients. Since salt dissolves better in vinegar than in oil, this simple step ensures a smooth, well-balanced vinaigrette with no undissolved salt crystals!

Mustard Variations:

I love using traditional Dijon mustard for its signature kick (my go-to is Maille), but if you prefer a milder flavor, whole-grain mustard works great, too. It adds a little texture and a more subtle mustard taste. For even more depth, you can also mix the two mustards, which is what I usually do.

Customize It:

You can also omit the mustard entirely and add just stick to Herbes de Provence for a more Provençal twist—or use both for an extra layer of depth. And of course, adding fresh herbs is always a win! My favorites are chopped chives, parsley, and even dill for a burst of freshness.

Storing French Dressing:

I often store my French vinaigrette in a reusable glass container—an old jam jar (as pictured) or even an empty mustard jar works perfectly. Not only does it reduce waste, but shaking the dressing in the jar helps emulsify it beautifully before serving. Plus, if there’s a little mustard left in the jar, it blends right into the dressing for extra flavor! 😉

French Salad Dressing (Vinaigrette)

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This classic French vinaigrette is tangy, flavorful, and effortlessly enhances any salad. Made with vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, and shallots, it’s a simple yet flavorful dressing you can whip up in minutes!

• Author: The Wise Consumer

Ingredients

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• 3 tablespoons vinegar (red wine, white wine, or champagne vinegar all work well)
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 shallot, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the vinegar and salt first. This helps dissolve the salt for even seasoning.
   
2. Add the Dijon mustard and finely chopped shallot, stirring to combine.
3. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously to create an emulsion. (Or, if using a jar, add all the ingredients and shake vigorously.)
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If it’s too tangy, add a little more olive oil.
5. Use immediately or store in the fridge for up to 10 days. Shake well before using. Tip: When storing your vinaigrette in the fridge, the olive oil may solidify. Simply take it out a few minutes before using it to let it soften, then give it a good shake or whisk to bring it back to its smooth consistency.

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The Wise Consumer

Madeleine is a Franco-American podcaster and blogger on a mission to inspire and empower women to live healthier, more eco-friendly, and conscious lifestyles. On her blog/podcast, The Wise Consumer, she covers topics ranging from nutrition and recipes to ethical fashion and eco living tips. When not working Madeleine is either spending time with family, developing new recipes, or trail running.

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