Homemade Apple Cider Vinaigrette (Easy & Flavorful Salad Dressing)
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If you’re looking for a salad dressing that’s equal parts sweet, tangy, and ridiculously easy, this Apple Cider Vinaigrette is about to become your go-to recipe. With fresh apple cider (or apple juice), extra-virgin olive oil, a little Dijon mustard, and a few simple spices, you get a homemade salad dressing that’s full of bright, balanced flavor. No preservatives, thickeners, or strange ingredients needed!
I love to keep a jar of this vinaigrette in the fridge for tossing with kale, farro, or roasted vegetables, but it’s also perfect for drizzling over chicken, chickpeas, or even as a quick marinade. The combo of sweet apples and a touch of cinnamon makes it a natural match for fall recipes, but it works year-round. You only need a small bowl or a mason jar and about five minutes, so skip the store-bought stuff and shake up your own.
Why You’ll Love This Apple Cider Vinaigrette
- Fresh, natural flavors – Sweet apple cider, zesty Dijon, and extra-virgin olive oil bring real taste to every bite.
- Quick to make – Whisk or shake everything together in under five minutes.
- No preservatives – Just simple ingredients you can pronounce.
- Super versatile – Works for salads, grain bowls, veggies, chicken, or as a marinade.
- Keeps well in the fridge – Make ahead and use all week long.
Ingredients Needed To Make This Apple Cider Vinaigrette
Make sure you scroll down to the recipe card to see the full list of ingredients needed for this recipe.
- Apple cider or apple juice
- Olive oil (preferably extra-virgin)
- Dijon mustard
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Onion powder
- Garlic powder
- Ground cinnamon
Variations, Tips, and Substitutions
- Add a splash of apple cider vinegar – For more tang, use half apple cider and half apple cider vinegar.
- Make it vegan – This recipe is already vegan, just double-check your Dijon.
- Sweeten naturally – Add a little honey or maple syrup if you prefer a sweeter dressing.
- Brighten it up – A squeeze of lemon juice adds a fresh zing.
- Try different herbs – Whisk in chopped fresh parsley, chives, or thyme for extra flavor.
- Use as a marinade – Pour over chicken, tofu, or chickpeas before roasting or grilling.
How To Make This Apple Cider Vinaigrette
- Pour all ingredients into a small bowl or a mason jar with a tight-fitting lid.
- Whisk well (or give the jar a good shake) until fully blended and creamy.
- Taste and add more salt or a little sweetener, like honey or maple syrup, if you want.
- Store in the fridge for up to five days. Shake before each use.
Commonly Asked Questions
Can I use apple cider vinegar instead of apple cider?
Yes, but it’s best to combine it with a little apple juice or add extra sweetener to balance the acidity.
How long does apple cider vinaigrette last in the fridge?
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to five days. Always give it a good shake before using.
What salads pair well with this dressing?
This vinaigrette is perfect for salads with kale, quinoa, roasted beets, farro, spinach, apples, and nuts.
Is this dressing suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Make a batch ahead and keep it in a mason jar for easy salad dressing or veggie drizzle all week.
Can I use this as a marinade?
Yes, it makes a flavorful marinade for chicken, tofu, or roasted vegetables.
Apple Cider Vinaigrette
Equipment
- Small mixing bowl or jar with lid
- Whisk or tight-fitting jar lid
Ingredients
- ¾ cup apple cider or apple juice
- ⅓ cup olive oil
- 2 tsp Dijon mustard
- Good pinch of salt
- Good pinch of pepper
- ¼ tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- 1/16 tsp ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to a bowl or jar and whisk or shake until smooth and fully emulsified. Taste and adjust salt or sweetness if desired. Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days — shake before using.
Nutrition
There’s nothing like a homemade salad dressing to make your salads taste restaurant-worthy. This apple cider vinaigrette is simple, versatile, and absolutely packed with flavor. Mix up a jar, keep it in the fridge, and you’ll always have a fresh, tangy dressing ready to go! No weird additives required.