Name: Tangy Apple Cider Vinaigrette Dressing
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/3 cup olive oil; 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar; 1 large or 2 small cloves garlic, finely minced or grated; 1 tablespoon maple syrup; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 1/4 teaspoon fine salt (more to taste); Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Why You’ll Love Tangy Apple Cider Vinaigrette Dressing Recipe

This dressing is quick to make and uses simple pantry ingredients.

It has the perfect balance of tangy, slightly sweet, savory, and peppery flavors.

The maple syrup softens the sharpness of the vinegar without making the dressing too sweet.

It stores well in the fridge, making it great for meal prep.

You can use it on salads, roasted vegetables, wraps, bowls, or as a light marinade.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Olive oil
Apple cider vinegar
Garlic, finely minced or grated
Maple syrup
Dijon mustard
Fine salt
Freshly ground black pepper

Directions

Whisk the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, garlic, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper together in a liquid measuring cup until fully combined.

Taste and adjust with more salt or pepper if needed.

Pour the dressing into a jar or airtight container.

Use immediately, or cover and store in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Shake well before each use, as the dressing may separate while stored.

Servings and timing

Servings: 8

Prep time: 10 minutes

Total time: 10 minutes

Variations

For a sweeter dressing, add a little extra maple syrup.

For a sharper vinaigrette, increase the apple cider vinegar slightly.

For a creamier version, whisk in a spoonful of Greek yogurt or tahini.

For an herby flavor, add finely chopped parsley, thyme, basil, or chives.

For extra brightness, add a small squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

For a stronger garlic flavor, let the dressing sit for 15 to 20 minutes before serving.

Storage/Reheating

Store the dressing in a sealed jar or airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Shake well before using, since the oil and vinegar may naturally separate.

If the olive oil firms up in the fridge, let the dressing sit at room temperature for a few minutes, then shake or whisk until smooth again.

This dressing does not need reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this apple cider vinaigrette ahead of time?

Yes. This dressing is great for making ahead and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Why did my vinaigrette separate?

Oil and vinegar naturally separate over time. Just shake the jar well before using.

Can I use honey instead of maple syrup?

Yes. Honey works well and gives the dressing a slightly different sweetness.

Can I make this dressing without Dijon mustard?

Yes, but Dijon helps the dressing emulsify and adds flavor. You can leave it out or use a small amount of whole grain mustard instead.

Is this dressing sweet?

It is lightly sweet, but still tangy. The maple syrup balances the apple cider vinegar.

What salads go well with this vinaigrette?

It pairs well with green salads, spinach salads, apple salads, kale salads, grain salads, and salads with nuts or cheese.

Can I use this as a marinade?

Yes. It works as a light marinade for vegetables, chicken, or tofu.

How do I make the dressing less tangy?

Add a little more olive oil or maple syrup to mellow the vinegar flavor.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes. Simply double all the ingredients and store the extra dressing in a larger jar.

Does this dressing need to be refrigerated?

Yes. Because it contains fresh garlic, it should be stored in the refrigerator.

Conclusion

This tangy apple cider vinaigrette dressing is an easy homemade recipe that adds fresh, bold flavor to everyday meals. With just a few simple ingredients and 10 minutes, you can make a versatile dressing that tastes delicious on salads, bowls, roasted vegetables, and more.