The Secret Ingredient (Dijon Mustard): Simple Vinaigrette Recipe
You can be as fancy as you like in the kitchen, but if you don't know the basics, you'll never get anywhere. And one basic I have been working on for a long time is the perfect basic vinaigrette. I've written a million and one times about the restaurant Le Relais de l'Entrecôte in Paris, which now has an outpost (as yet untested by me!) in New York. It's a steak frites place, but they bring you this amazing green salad with mustard dressing and walnuts to start, and it was that dressing I was dying to emulate.
You can be as fancy as you like in the kitchen, but if you don't know the basics, you'll never get anywhere. And one basic I have been working on for a long time is the perfect basic vinaigrette. I've written a million and one times about the restaurant Le Relais de l'Entrecôte in Paris, which now has an outpost (as yet untested by me!) in New York. It's a steak frites place, but they bring you this amazing green salad with mustard dressing and walnuts to start, and it was that dressing I was dying to emulate.
- Carbohydrate 0.219057500406793 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 1.76369000030509 g
- Fiber 0.13037499846293 g
- Protein 0.166612500332476 g
- Saturated Fat 0.232199000018868 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (13g)
- Sodium 80.5438000864165 mg
- Sugar 0.0886825019438629 g
- Trans Fat 0.0504890000137706 g
- Calories 18 calories
Step-by-step
- In the bottom of a large salad serving bowl, whisk together the mustard, vinegar, salt, and pepper with a small whisk until the mixture is completely homogenous.
- If you don't have a whisk, use a fork.
- Add the olive oil, and whisk again until completely homogenous and emulsified.
- Tumble enough salad for four people on top, and toss gently to dress.
My Simple Vinaigrette: A Secret Weapon for Everyday Elegance
As a busy professional woman, time is my most precious commodity. I crave delicious, healthy meals but often find myself staring into the refrigerator, overwhelmed by the sheer thought of cooking after a long day. That's where this simple vinaigrette recipe comes in – a lifesaver, a secret weapon, a culinary shortcut to elevating even the simplest salad into a restaurant-worthy experience.
This isn't just any vinaigrette; it’s a testament to the power of a few well-chosen ingredients. The star of the show? Dijon mustard. It's not just about the tang; it's about the depth, the complexity, the way it binds the oil and vinegar together into a creamy, luscious emulsion. Forget those watery, separating vinaigrettes that leave you with a sad, soggy salad. This recipe delivers the rich, flavorful dressing your taste buds (and your busy schedule) deserve.
I stumbled upon this recipe quite by accident, really. I was attempting to recreate the unforgettable salad dressing from Le Relais de l'Entrecôte, a Parisian steakhouse famous for its simple yet incredibly satisfying steak frites. Their secret? A deceptively simple vinaigrette that somehow manages to be both bold and subtle, creamy and light. After many failed attempts, I finally cracked the code – and it all came down to the Dijon mustard.
The magic of Dijon: It’s more than just a condiment; it's an emulsifier, a flavor enhancer, a textural magician. The tiny mustard seeds add a delightful burst of spice, while the creamy texture helps to create that perfect balance between tangy vinegar and smooth olive oil. It’s the secret ingredient that elevates a simple salad dressing into something truly special.
Beyond the salad: While I primarily use this vinaigrette on salads (think crisp greens, juicy tomatoes, and crunchy walnuts – a personal favorite!), its versatility extends far beyond the bowl. I use it as a marinade for chicken or fish, a base for pasta sauces, or even a drizzle for roasted vegetables. The possibilities are endless.
This recipe is a testament to the idea that simplicity doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor. With just a handful of ingredients and a few minutes of your time, you can create a dressing that will transform your meals. It’s a recipe I return to again and again, a constant source of culinary inspiration in my busy life. It's a reminder that even amidst the chaos of daily life, taking a few minutes to create something delicious and nourishing is always worth it.
So, ditch the store-bought dressings and embrace the simplicity of this homemade vinaigrette. You won't be disappointed. And remember, the secret is in the Dijon.
Pro-tip: Experiment with different types of vinegar (balsamic, apple cider) to find your perfect flavor profile. I also love adding a touch of honey or maple syrup for a hint of sweetness.
This simple vinaigrette is more than just a recipe; it's a philosophy. It's a reminder that even in the midst of a hectic schedule, taking the time to create something delicious and wholesome can bring a sense of calm and satisfaction. It’s about savoring the small moments, the simple pleasures, and the magic of transforming everyday ingredients into something truly special.
I hope this recipe brings you as much joy and culinary satisfaction as it has brought me. Enjoy!
