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California Salad Dressing Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.2 from 76 reviews
  • Author: admin
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 5 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings (about ¾ cup total)
  • Category: Salad Dressing
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: California, American
  • Diet: Vegan, Gluten Free

Description

A light and healthy California Salad Dressing combining extra virgin olive oil, apple cider vinegar, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and a touch of honey. This versatile, no-cook vinaigrette is perfect for drizzling over fresh greens, avocado, and vibrant salad mixes, delivering a fresh and tangy flavor with optional fresh herbs for added aroma.


Ingredients

Scale

California Salad Dressing Ingredients

  • ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 tbsp apple cider vinegar (or white wine vinegar)
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp honey (or maple syrup for vegan option)
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • â…› tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp finely chopped fresh herbs (basil, parsley, or chives – optional)


Instructions

  1. Combine Liquids and Flavorings. In a small bowl or jar with a lid, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until the ingredients are well blended.
  2. Emulsify the Dressing. Slowly drizzle the extra virgin olive oil into the mixture while continuously whisking to create a smooth and emulsified dressing. Alternatively, add all ingredients to a jar, seal tightly, and shake vigorously until combined.
  3. Adjust Flavor and Add Herbs. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Stir in the finely chopped fresh herbs for added freshness and aroma, if using.
  4. Serve. Drizzle the dressing over fresh greens, avocado slices, tomatoes, cucumbers, or any mix of California-style salad ingredients.

Notes

  • Store the salad dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
  • If refrigerated, let the dressing sit at room temperature for 10 minutes and shake well before using to recombine ingredients.
  • For a vegan version, substitute honey with maple syrup.
  • Adjust the amount of garlic or lemon juice to taste for a stronger or milder flavor profile.