Homemade Honey Mustard Dressing is a versatile, creamy, and tangy sauce that’s perfect for salads, dipping, or as a sandwich spread. Made with just a few simple ingredients, it’s far better than store-bought and can be customized to suit your taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Whips up in under 5 minutes with pantry staples.
- Customizable: Adjust the sweetness, tanginess, or spice to your liking.
- Healthier Option: No preservatives or additives, just fresh ingredients.
- Versatile: Use it as a salad dressing, dipping sauce, or sandwich spread.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Dijon mustard
- Honey
- Mayonnaise
- Apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Black pepper
Directions
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, honey, mayonnaise, and apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice) until smooth.
- Add Olive Oil: Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking to emulsify the dressing.
- Season: Add salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the balance of flavors as needed.
- Serve: Use immediately, or refrigerate in an airtight container for later use. Shake or stir before serving if separation occurs.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Makes about 1 cup (enough for 4-6 servings)
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Honey Mustard: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, a splash of hot sauce, or a dollop of horseradish for heat.
- Lighter Version: Substitute Greek yogurt or light mayo for regular mayonnaise.
- Extra Tangy: Increase the apple cider vinegar or lemon juice for a more acidic kick.
- Whole Grain Mustard: Use whole-grain mustard for added texture and a rustic look.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
- Freezing: Freezing is not recommended, as the dressing may separate upon thawing.
- Reheating: This dressing is best served cold or at room temperature and does not require reheating.
FAQs
1. Can I use yellow mustard instead of Dijon mustard?
Yes, but the flavor will be milder and less tangy than Dijon.
2. Is there a vegan option for this recipe?
Replace mayonnaise with vegan mayo and ensure the honey is substituted with maple syrup or agave nectar.
3. Can I make this dressing thicker?
Reduce the amount of vinegar or lemon juice, or add more mayonnaise to achieve a thicker consistency.
4. What can I use this dressing for?
It’s perfect for salads, dipping chicken tenders, drizzling over roasted vegetables, or spreading on sandwiches.
5. How do I adjust the sweetness?
Add more or less honey to suit your taste. For a sweeter version, you can also use maple syrup.
6. Can I use olive oil mayonnaise?
Yes, olive oil mayonnaise works well and may add a subtle richness.
7. What type of honey is best?
Any honey will work, but raw or local honey can enhance the flavor.
8. How can I make it sugar-free?
Replace honey with a sugar-free syrup alternative like monk fruit syrup.
9. How do I prevent the dressing from separating?
Emulsify the dressing well by slowly whisking in the olive oil. Stir before serving if separation occurs.
10. Can I double or triple this recipe?
Absolutely! Scale the ingredients proportionally to make a larger batch.
Conclusion
Homemade Honey Mustard Dressing is a quick, flavorful, and versatile addition to your recipe repertoire. With its perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess, it elevates any dish it’s paired with. Ditch the store-bought versions and whip up this delicious dressing today!
PrintHomemade Honey Mustard Dressing Recipe
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: About 1 cup 1x
- Category: Dressing
- Method: Whisking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This easy homemade honey mustard dressing is tangy, creamy, and slightly sweet. Perfect for salads, sandwiches, or as a dipping sauce for chicken and veggies, it’s made with simple ingredients and ready in minutes.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup (60ml) Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup (60ml) honey
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) mayonnaise (optional, for creaminess)
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- 1/4 cup (60ml) olive oil or neutral oil (like canola)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, honey, mayonnaise (if using), and apple cider vinegar or lemon juice until smooth.
- Add the Oil:
- While whisking continuously, slowly drizzle in the olive oil to create a creamy, emulsified dressing.
- Season:
- Add garlic powder (if desired), salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve:
- Transfer the dressing to a jar or bottle and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, use whole-grain mustard or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- This dressing will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Shake well before using.
- If the dressing thickens too much in the fridge, stir in a teaspoon of water to loosen it.