This is the dressing that, without fail, someone asks me about every time we serve salad at a dinner party.
Ditch store-bought dressing and make your own! Simple, bright, and perfectly balanced, this healthy everyday vinaigrette is one of those foundational recipes that makes eating more vegetables feel effortless. Keep a jar in your refrigerator, and suddenly salads, roasted vegetables, grain bowls, and even grilled proteins become far more exciting.
If you want to eat more vegetables, start with a dressing you genuinely love without the inflammatory seed oils.
And remember, although fiber-rich vegetables are essential for gut health, hormone balance, and blood sugar stability, I always encourage clients to pair them with adequate protein to support satiety, muscle health, and more stable energy throughout the day.
Red wine vinegar and apple cider vinegar give this dressing its tangy flavor while offering ingredients that support digestion and healthy blood sugar regulation. Apple cider vinegar contains acetic acid, which has been studied for its potential to slow glucose absorption and improve insulin sensitivity when consumed as part of a balanced meal.
Extra-virgin olive oil is one of the true stars of this recipe. Rich in heart-healthy fats and antioxidant polyphenols, extra-virgin olive oil supports cardiovascular health, reduces inflammation, and enhances the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins such as A, D, E, and K from your vegetables.
A small amount of pure maple syrup balances the acidity naturally, while Dijon mustard adds depth of flavor and helps emulsify the dressing into a smooth, creamy consistency.
The best part? It takes a few minutes to make and keeps beautifully in a mason jar for nearly a week. Having a homemade dressing ready to go is one of the simplest ways to make healthy eating easier and more enjoyable.
