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Basic French Vinaigrette

Every home cook should have a reliable French vinaigrette in their repertoire. This classic vegan dressing relies on the sharp punch of Dijon mustard and the mellow sweetness of macerated shallots to create a balanced, vibrant flavour. It is far superior to any shop-bought alternative, offering a silky texture that coats salad leaves beautifully without being overly greasy.

This versatile dressing is a staple of French home cooking and works wonderfully drizzled over crisp butterhead lettuce, roasted beetroot, or even steamed green beans. Because the vinegar softens the shallots, the result is sophisticated rather than harsh. It is a healthy, homemade addition to your weekly meal prep that keeps perfectly in the fridge for several days.

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Ingredients for Basic French Vinaigrette

  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped shallots

  • 2 tablespoons red- or white-wine vinegar

  • 1/4 teaspoons fine sea salt, or to taste

  • 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard

  • 4 to 90ml extra-virgin olive oil

  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste

How to make Basic French Vinaigrette

In a small bowl, whisk together the shallots, vinegar, and 1/4 teaspoons fine sea salt; let the mixture stand 10 minutes. Whisk in the mustard, then add the oil in a very slow, thin, steady stream, whisking constantly until the dressing is emulsified. Season with fine sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. DO AHEAD: The vinaigrette can be prepared ahead and refrigerated, in an airtight container, up to 1 week.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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