This red wine vinaigrette recipe is better than any store-bought salad dressing! Zippy, bright, and balanced, it’s easy to make in 5 minutes.
Red Wine Vinaigrette Recipe
Meet my go-to red wine vinaigrette recipe! Made with basic ingredients like olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, and honey, this 5-minute salad dressing has a deliciously balanced flavor. It’s tangy, savory, and slightly sweet—much better than any store-bought dressing.
I’ve been perfecting this recipe over the years. Initially, I used too much vinegar, resulting in an overly acidic dressing. I’ve gradually adjusted the proportions of oil, honey, and mustard to create a creamy texture with a complex flavor that I absolutely love.
Now, this vinaigrette is a staple in my kitchen. I drizzle it on salads, use it as a marinade, and more. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do!
Red Wine Vinaigrette Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this classic vinaigrette:
| Ingredient | Description |
|---|---|
| Extra-virgin olive oil | Gives the dressing body, richness, and fruity depth of flavor. |
| Red wine vinegar | Adds bold, tangy flavor. A variation can be made with half lemon juice. |
| Honey | Balances the sharpness of vinegar. Substitute with maple syrup for a vegan option. |
| Dijon mustard | Emulsifies the dressing, adding a creamy texture and peppery flavor. |
| Garlic | Provides a sharp, savory flavor. |
| Dried oregano | Adds a lovely herbal note. Substitute with thyme or Italian seasoning if desired. |
| Salt and pepper | Makes all the flavors pop! |
Find the complete recipe with measurements below.
How to Make a Red Wine Vinaigrette
This dressing comes together in less than 5 minutes!
Combine all the ingredients in a medium bowl and whisk until blended. Alternatively, use a Mason jar with a tight-fitting lid and shake until well combined. It’s that easy!
Before serving, taste and adjust the ingredients to your liking. Add more vinegar for tang or more oil or honey if it’s too sharp.
- Tip: Test it on a lettuce leaf or other salad ingredient for a better idea of how it will taste on your salad.
How to Use This Red Wine Vinaigrette
With its bold, sweet, tangy flavor, this vinaigrette is perfect for various salads! Try it on:
- Mixed greens
- Caprese salad
- Cucumber salad
It’s also great on fillings for sandwiches and wraps. Use it instead of Caesar dressing on Caesar salad wraps!
I love it drizzled over grilled and roasted veggies. For a tasty summer side, spoon it over grilled tomatoes and top with shaved Parmesan or crumbled feta and some fresh herbs.
How to Store
Keep this vinaigrette in an airtight container or jar in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
The olive oil may solidify in the fridge, which is normal. Let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes to liquefy again. Shake or whisk before using.
More Homemade Salad Dressings to Try
If you love this easy red wine vinaigrette, try one of these homemade recipes next:
FAQ
- How long can I store red wine vinaigrette?
- You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- Can I customize the vinaigrette?
- Absolutely! Adjust the vinegar and oil ratios to your taste or try different herbs for unique flavors.
- Is this recipe vegan?
- Yes, simply substitute honey with maple syrup or a sugar alternative for a vegan version.