Apple cider vinegar dressing is a simple, wholesome, and incredibly versatile vinaigrette that can elevate everything from salads to roasted vegetables and grain bowls. Made with pantry staples, this tangy, zesty dressing offers a bright acidity balanced by a touch of sweetness and smooth oil, making it a go-to condiment in healthy and flavor-packed cooking.
Whether you’re following a clean eating plan, want to skip store-bought bottled dressings, or are simply craving something fresh, this homemade apple cider vinegar dressing is a must-try.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
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Simple Ingredients: Made with just a handful of pantry staples.
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Quick to Make: Whips up in 5 minutes or less.
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Healthy and Fresh: No preservatives, artificial flavors, or added sugars.
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Customizable: Adjust the flavor, sweetness, and spices to suit your taste.
Ingredients List
Basic Apple Cider Vinegar Dressing
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¼ cup apple cider vinegar (raw, unfiltered preferred)
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½ cup extra virgin olive oil
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1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
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1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
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1 clove garlic, minced or grated
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Optional Add-Ins
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1 teaspoon lemon juice (for added brightness)
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½ teaspoon dried oregano or thyme
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1 tablespoon finely chopped shallots
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A pinch of red pepper flakes for heat
Timing & Servings
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Prep Time: 5 minutes
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Cook Time: None
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Total Time: 5 minutes
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Servings: Makes about ¾ cup (6–8 servings)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Apple Cider Vinegar Dressing
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
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Mince the garlic finely or grate it for best flavor distribution.
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Measure the oil, vinegar, mustard, and sweetener.
Step 2: Combine and Whisk
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In a medium bowl, add vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey or maple syrup, garlic, salt, and pepper.
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Whisk to combine.
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Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously to emulsify.
Step 3: Taste and Adjust
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Taste the dressing and adjust salt, sweetener, or acidity if needed.
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Add herbs or lemon juice if desired.
Step 4: Store or Use
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Pour the dressing into a jar or bottle with a tight-fitting lid.
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Use immediately or store in the refrigerator.
Tips for the Best Apple Cider Vinegar Dressing
Use Quality Vinegar
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Choose raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar with the “mother” for the best flavor and health benefits.
Balance Flavors
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The acidity of the vinegar needs sweetness and fat (oil) to balance it out—don’t skip the sweetener.
Emulsify Well
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Whisking or blending thoroughly helps the oil and vinegar stay mixed longer.
Adjust to Taste
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Everyone’s palate is different. Feel free to use more or less sweetener, garlic, or mustard.
Flavor Variations
Creamy Apple Cider Vinegar Dressing
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Add 1–2 tablespoons of Greek yogurt or mayonnaise for a creamy texture.
Spicy Apple Cider Dressing
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Include a pinch of cayenne or ½ teaspoon Dijon for a zesty, spicy version.
Herb Vinaigrette
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Mix in fresh chopped parsley, dill, or basil for a garden-fresh flavor.
Maple Mustard Dressing
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Replace honey with maple syrup and increase the Dijon for a bold, tangy profile.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
Make-Ahead
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This dressing is perfect for prepping ahead and storing in the fridge.
Storage Instructions
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Store in a sealed glass jar or container for up to 1 week.
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Shake or stir well before each use as natural separation will occur.
Nutritional Overview (Per Serving – Approx. 1 Tablespoon)
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Calories: 100–120
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Fat: 10–12g
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Carbohydrates: 1–2g
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Sugar: 1g (varies with sweetener)
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Protein: 0g
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Sodium: ~50mg
Note: Using maple syrup or other sweeteners will slightly alter the nutritional profile.
Serving Suggestions
Salads
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Drizzle over leafy greens, spinach, kale, or arugula.
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Great with chopped veggies, fruits, nuts, and cheese combinations.
Roasted Vegetables
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Toss roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes with this dressing before serving.
Grain Bowls
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Pour over rice, quinoa, or farro bowls with proteins and veggies.
Marinade
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Use as a marinade for chicken, tofu, pork, or shrimp for tangy flavor and tender texture.
Sandwiches and Wraps
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Add a little to wraps or sandwiches in place of mayonnaise for brightness.
FAQs
Can I make this dressing without mustard?
Yes. The mustard helps emulsify the dressing, but you can skip it or use a small amount of mayo or Greek yogurt instead.
Is this dressing vegan?
Yes, if you use maple syrup instead of honey and ensure your mustard is vegan-friendly.
What’s the best oil to use?
Extra virgin olive oil is classic, but avocado oil or grapeseed oil also work well for a milder flavor.
Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
Yes, use ¼ teaspoon garlic powder in place of one clove.
How do I thicken the dressing?
Blend it with a bit of yogurt, tahini, or avocado for a thicker consistency.
Health Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is not just a flavor powerhouse—it’s also known for its potential health benefits, especially when consumed raw and unfiltered.
Aids Digestion
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ACV is acidic and may support stomach acid levels for better digestion.
Balances Blood Sugar
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Some studies show that it may help reduce blood sugar spikes after meals.
Rich in Acetic Acid
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Acetic acid helps promote antimicrobial properties and gut health.
Antioxidant Properties
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Contains antioxidants that may help fight oxidative stress.
Note: Always consult your healthcare provider before using ACV as a health supplement.
Homemade vs. Store-Bought
Why Make It Yourself?
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No Preservatives: Homemade dressing is clean and fresh.
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Better Flavor: Customize it to your preferences.
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More Affordable: Store-bought dressings can be pricey and full of fillers.
Store-Bought Pitfalls
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Often loaded with sugar, unhealthy fats, and additives.
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Flavor can be overly sweet or artificial.
How to Bottle and Gift Homemade Dressing
This apple cider vinaigrette also makes a fantastic edible gift!
Gifting Tips
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Pour into small mason jars or decorative bottles.
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Label with ingredients and best-by date.
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Tie with ribbon and pair with a handwritten salad recipe.
Conclusion
Apple cider vinegar dressing is more than just a tangy addition to your salad—it’s a kitchen staple that brings brightness, depth, and nutrition to many dishes. With only a few ingredients and five minutes of prep, you can transform your meals with this flavorful, homemade vinaigrette.
From leafy greens to roasted veggies and grain bowls, this dressing is a reliable companion in any clean-eating or flavor-focused kitchen. Once you taste the fresh, bold flavor of homemade apple cider vinegar dressing, you may never go back to the bottled kind again.