This Honey Balsamic Vinaigrette is one I come back to again and again because it's just the right balance of tangy and sweet. There's something about a homemade dressings that makes even a thrown-together salad feel fancy. Plus they taste so much better than a store-bought salad dressing. The best part is you probably already have everything you need since it only uses basic ingredients.
Whether you're tossing it with fresh spinach, spooning it over grilled chicken, or dipping roasted veggies straight into the jar (guilty), this honey balsamic dressing brings a little brightness and a touch of sweetness to the table with barely any effort.
You'll love this recipe because:
- It's only 5 ingredients + 1 jar = magic
- No blender, no mess, just shake and pour
- Budget-friendly and endlessly versatile
- Make it once, use it all week
Ingredients
¼ cup balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons honey, you could sub maple syrup in a pinch too
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
½ cup extra virgin olive oil
½ teaspoon salt, plus black pepper to taste
Instructions
Add balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, garlic (if using), salt, and pepper to a mason jar or small bowl.
Slowly whisk in the olive oil OR screw on the lid and shake until fully combined.
Taste and adjust. Add a touch more honey if it's too sharp, or more vinegar if you like it tangier.
Keep this homemade balsamic dressing in a lidded container in the fridge. It'll last for 10-14 days, just give it a shake before each use. Serve this delicious dressing over a spring mix for some simple side salads.
How to Use this Vinaigrette
- Over a bed of greens with strawberries and almonds for a strawberry spinach salad (add some goat cheese for even more flavor)
- On a grilled chicken wrap or sandwich
- As a marinade for sheet pan veggies or pork tenderloin
- Mixed into a warm quinoa bowl with roasted sweet potatoes
Get the Recipe
Honey Balsamic Vinaigrette
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Description
This vinaigrette is proof that simple ingredients can pack a punch. Keep a jar in the fridge and you'll always have a reason to throw together a salad
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Add balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, garlic (if using), salt, and pepper to a mason jar or small bowl.
- Slowly whisk in the olive oil OR screw on the lid and shake until fully combined.
- Taste and adjust. Add a touch more honey if it's too sharp, or more vinegar if you like it tangier.
- Keep it in a sealed jar in the fridge. It'll last for 10-14 days, just give it a shake before each use.
Notes
Too sharp? Add more honey.
No Dijon? A little mayo or even plain mustard can do in a pinch
Make it creamy by whisking in a spoonful of Greek yogurt or tahini
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dressing
- Method: Mix
- Cuisine: American
Frequently Asked Questions
Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, this vinaigrette will last about 10 to 14 days. Just give it a good shake before using, as separation is totally normal.
Yes! Dijon mustard helps emulsify the dressing (keeps it from separating), but if you're out or not a fan, you can leave it out or substitute with a little mayo, plain mustard, or even a spoonful of Greek yogurt.
Any runny, pourable honey works well. Local raw honey is great for added depth of flavor, but store-brand clover honey will still taste delicious.
Extra virgin olive oil adds great flavor, but you can use any neutral oil (like avocado, canola, or grapeseed) if you prefer a milder taste or are working with what's on hand.
Add a little more honey or a splash of water to mellow the acidity. You can also mix in a tiny bit of mayonnaise or yogurt for creaminess and balance.
Absolutely! This vinaigrette makes a flavorful marinade for chicken, pork, or veggies. Marinate meats for 30 minutes to 2 hours, or toss veggies just before roasting.
Ditch those store-bought dressings and try making your own dressing. This Honey Balsamic Vinaigrette recipe can be used on pretty much any salad recipe. Here's some of my favorite different types of salads and bowls:
Liz says
Such a good salad dressing! Thanks for sharing
Merin says
The directions say garlic (if using) but garlic isn’t listed as an ingredient - how much garlic?
Leanna Myers says
Hi! Yes, garlic is an optional ingredient based on personal preferences. For me, I would only use one clove of minced garlic since it's pretty strong.