Mustard Red Wine Vinaigrette

One can never go astray with a classic-style vinaigrette to spruce up any salad recipe. This traditional mustard red wine vinaigrette is no exception! It’s simple yet so delicious.

Why You’ll Love Mustard Red Wine Vinaigrette

This Mustard Red Wine Vinegar Salad Dressing is loved for its rich, tangy flavour, creamy texture, and simplicity, making it a go-to option for enhancing a variety of salads with minimal effort.

The tanginess of red wine vinegar combined with the sharp, pungent flavour of Dijon mustard creates a bold and vibrant taste. Love the acidity of the dressing that helps to brighten up any salad recipes and complements a variety of greens and vegetables.

This creamy emulsion is made with wholesome ingredients that are healthy and light. Dairy, gluten, egg and nut free salad dressing to please most dietary preferences.

It’s also quick and easy to whip up and ever so versatile in use. Highly customisable too to suit all palates.

For more super easy salad dressings, try our apple cider vinaigrette with orange juice or yuzu dressing.

What Is Red Wine Vinaigrette Made Of?

Red wine vinaigrette is a simple yet flavourful dressing typically made of olive oil, red wine vinegar and mustard. 

It is usually made up of 3 parts olive oil and 1 part red wine vinegar. A vigorous whisk of the 3 ingredients will yield a creamy, emulsified salad dressing that is so simple and yet perfect for most salads.

Some other variations of a red wine vinaigrette include red wine shallot vinaigrette or citrus red wine vinaigrette. 

What Are Some Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Vinaigrette?

Not emulsifying properly: Adding the oil too quickly can prevent the vinaigrette from emulsifying, resulting in a separated dressing. Slowly drizzle the oil into the vinegar mixture while whisking continuously to create a stable emulsion.

Overmixing: The opposite can also cause poor results. Gently whisk or shake the vinaigrette to emulsify it. Overmixing can cause separation.

Low-quality ingredients: Use good-quality olive oil and vinegar. They significantly impact the flavour.

Imbalanced ratios: Ensure a proper balance between vinegar and oil. A classic ratio is 3 parts oil to 1 part vinegar. Adjust to your taste.

Improper storage: Storing vinaigrette in an open container can cause it to lose flavour and freshness. Store vinaigrette in an airtight container in the refrigerator and shake well before each use, as the ingredients may separate.

Ingredients

These are the ingredients you need for mustard red wine vinaigrette:

• Red wine vinegar: Add a good splash of good quality red wine vinegar for a tart and intense flavour. Never hurts to invest in a well-aged red wine vinegar if you’re a salad lover. It will never go to waste and make a difference to the overall flavour palate of the dressing.

• Dijon mustard: Such a versatile condiment, not just for salad dressings. A good dollop makes all the difference.

• Olive oil: A good dressing deserves a good olive oil or extra virgin olive oil. Good to also invest in one bottle of excellent quality, reserved purely for making dressings and dipping bread.

Variations and Substitutions

Honey mustard dressing: Add 1-2 teaspoons of honey for a touch of sweetness, balancing the acidity and adding depth to the flavour.

Herb-infused dressing: Mix in finely chopped fresh herbs such as parsley, chives, basil, or tarragon to add a burst of freshness and complexity.

Garlic Dijon dressing: Add a minced garlic clove or ½ a teaspoon of garlic powder for a robust garlic flavour.

Creamy mustard dressing: Incorporate a tablespoon of Greek yoghurt or sour cream for a creamier texture and a tangy twist.

Spicy mustard dressing: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, a dash of hot sauce, or a teaspoon of prepared horseradish for a spicy kick.

Lemon mustard dressing: Substitute half of the red wine vinegar with freshly squeezed lemon juice for a citrusy flavour.

Red wine vinegar substitute: Substitute with balsamic vinegar, apple cider vinegar, white wine vinegar, or sherry vinegar for a different flavour profile. Use rice vinegar for a milder taste.

Dijon mustard alternative: Substitute with whole grain mustard for a rustic texture and slightly different flavour. Use spicy brown mustard or yellow mustard for a variation in taste.

Olive oil replacement: Substitute with another type of oil, such as avocado oil, grapeseed oil, or sunflower oil. For a nutty flavour, use walnut oil or sesame oil.

Added sweetness: Add a teaspoon of maple syrup, agave nectar, or brown sugar for additional sweetness.

Added pungency: Add a tablespoon of finely minced shallots for a mild, sweet onion flavour.

Instructions

Step by step instructions for how to make mustard red wine vinaigrette:

Add red wine vinegar into a small mixing bowl.

Add Dijon mustard.

Drizzle olive oil slowly into the mixing bowl and whisk as you go to emulsify the ingredients.

How To Store

Store the dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator if you’re not using it immediately. Give it a good shake or whisk before using, as the ingredients may separate over time.

If the dressing is too thick, thin it out with a bit of water or more vinegar. If it’s too thin, add a bit more olive oil or mustard to thicken it.

Best Salad for This Dressing

Swiss Brown Mushroom Salad with Chickpeas

Sauté some rustic Swiss brown mushrooms in butter and add some wholesome chickpeas, bitter radicchio and fresh snow pea sprouts for a delicious salad to have with any main meal.