The ultimate back-pocket salad dressing – five ingredients, no blender, and ready in 60 seconds.
This is the salad dressing I make on autopilot – it’s foolproof, quick, and instantly makes a bowl of greens feel like a proper dish. It’s tangy, sweet and balanced, and it clings to every leaf in the best possible way. I keep a jar of this in the fridge at all times, especially when we’re heading into salad-for-dinner season. It’s a total go-to for lunchboxes and barbecues too – no mayo, no fuss, just flavour.
What kind of olive oil should I use?
Use a good-quality extra-virgin olive oil – it really makes a difference here since it’s the base of the dressing. Look for one with a smooth, peppery finish.
Can I make it without honey?
Yes – you can substitute maple syrup or leave the honey out entirely if you prefer a sharper vinaigrette.
Does the dressing need to be shaken or whisked?
Either works. Shake it in a jar for convenience, or whisk it in a small bowl – whatever gets it combined and emulsified.
What else can I use this dressing on?
It’s perfect on Easy Rocket (Arugula) and Parmesan Salad, Tomato and Burrata Salad, roasted veggie bowls, grilled chicken salads, or even drizzled over cooked green beans or lentils.
What else can I add to the dressing?
For an extra punch, add ½ teaspoon of freshly grated garlic. For a creamy twist, add 1 tablespoon of Greek yoghurt (but it will no longer be dairy-free) or whole-egg mayonnaise.
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Balsamic Salad Dressing
A five-ingredient Balsamic Salad Dressing that takes 1 minute and zero effort. It’s balanced, punchy and works with just about anything – a true fridge staple.
- Total Time: 2 minutes
- Yield: ½ cup dressing
Ingredients
- 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tsp honey
- 1 tsp dijon mustard (see note 1 about gluten)
- ½ tsp sea salt flakes
- ¼ tsp freshly cracked black pepper
Instructions
- Add all the ingredients to a small jar or bowl.
- Shake or whisk until well combined.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Notes
Note 1 – Although most mustard is gluten-free, always check the label to be 100% sure.
MAKE AHEAD
This dressing keeps well in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Shake before using as it may separate slightly. Bring to room temperature before serving (it will solidify in the fridge).
LEFTOVERS
Fridge – Store in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
Freezer – Not suitable for freezing – it will split.
Reheating – Not needed – just bring to room temperature and shake well before using.
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Sauces and Dressings
- Method: Whisk or shake
- Cuisine: Universal
