Freda Marie’s Dijon Vinaigrette: A Dressing That Triumphs

There are certain recipes that, once tasted, etch themselves into your culinary memory. They become the benchmark against which all others are measured, the comforting embrace of familiarity that you return to again and again. Freda Marie’s Dijon Vinaigrette is one such treasure. I first encountered this dressing years ago, a vibrant, zesty counterpoint to a simple salad that elevated it from everyday fare to something truly memorable. It was that perfect balance of tang, a whisper of sweetness, and that unmistakable punch of Dijon that made me realize this wasn’t just a vinaigrette; it was the vinaigrette.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 5 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Yield: 1 1/2 cups
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free

Ingredients

This vinaigrette relies on a few fundamental ingredients, each playing a crucial role in its harmonious flavor profile. The key is in the quality of your olive oil and the freshness of your aromatics.

• 1 garlic clove, pressed
• 1 shallot, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
• 1 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon fresh ground pepper
• 1 tablespoon honey

Equipment Needed

For this simple yet impactful dressing, you won’t need any specialized equipment. A few basic kitchen staples will suffice:

• A medium-sized bowl
• A whisk
• A microplane or garlic press for the garlic

Instructions

Crafting Freda Marie’s Dijon Vinaigrette is a testament to the beauty of simplicity. The magic happens in how the ingredients emulsify, creating a dressing that clings beautifully to greens without overwhelming them.

1. Begin by preparing your aromatics. Press the garlic clove to release its potent flavor. Finely chop the shallot, aiming for tiny pieces that will meld seamlessly into the dressing.
2. In your medium-sized bowl, combine the pressed garlic, finely chopped shallot, and Dijon mustard.
3. Add the red wine vinegar to the bowl.
4. Using your whisk, vigorously whisk all these ingredients together until they are thoroughly blended. You’ll notice the mixture will start to become slightly opaque as the ingredients begin to emulsify.
5. Now, for the crucial step in creating a stable vinaigrette. While whisking continuously, slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil in a steady, thin stream. This gradual addition is what allows the oil and vinegar to bind together, creating a smooth, creamy emulsion rather than a separated oil and vinegar mixture. Continue whisking until all the olive oil has been incorporated and the dressing has reached a lovely, emulsified consistency.
6. To finish, add the honey, salt, and fresh ground pepper. Whisk again to ensure these final additions are evenly distributed. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed to suit your preference.

Enjoy this exquisite vinaigrette with your favorite salad.

Expert Tips & Tricks

The beauty of a well-made vinaigrette lies in its adaptability and the subtle nuances that can elevate it from good to extraordinary. Here are a few chef-inspired insights to help you get the most out of Freda Marie’s Dijon Vinaigrette:

• Aromatics are Key: Don’t be tempted to skip the shallot or garlic. Their fresh, pungent notes are vital to the dressing’s depth. If you find raw garlic too assertive, you can very gently sauté the minced shallot in a tiny bit of olive oil until softened and fragrant, then let it cool completely before adding it to the bowl. This mellows its bite while retaining its aromatic character.
• The Emulsion Dance: The success of any vinaigrette hinges on a stable emulsion. The slow, steady stream of olive oil while whisking is non-negotiable. If your vinaigrette breaks (separates), don’t despair! You can often rescue it by adding a tiny bit more Dijon mustard or a teaspoon of water to the separated mixture and whisking vigorously again.
• Quality Olive Oil Matters: Since olive oil is a primary ingredient here, using a high-quality extra virgin olive oil will make a noticeable difference in the final flavor. Look for one with a peppery finish and fruity notes that complement the tang of the vinegar.
• Make it Ahead: Vinaigrettes are fantastic make-ahead condiments. This dressing will keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. The flavors will actually meld and deepen over time. Just be sure to whisk it well before serving, as it may separate slightly.
• Sweetness Adjustment: The honey provides a delicate sweetness to balance the acidity of the vinegar. If you prefer a tarter dressing, reduce the honey slightly. Conversely, if you have a preference for a sweeter profile, you can add a touch more, but be careful not to overpower the other flavors.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Freda Marie’s Dijon Vinaigrette is incredibly versatile, but it truly shines when tossed with fresh, crisp greens. Its bright, tangy character cuts through richness and adds a lively dimension to any salad.

Serve this vinaigrette generously over a bed of your favorite salad greens. Consider adding components that echo its flavors, such as thinly sliced red onions, crisp red bell peppers, shredded carrots, and the delightful burst of dried cranberries. Sliced cherry tomatoes also add a burst of freshness that pairs beautifully.

For optimal freshness and flavor, store any leftover vinaigrette in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to two weeks. When you’re ready to use it again, give it a good whisk to re-emulsify. Since it contains fresh garlic and shallot, it’s best consumed within this timeframe for peak flavor. It does not require reheating.

Nutritional Information

While precise nutritional values can vary based on specific ingredient brands and exact measurements, here is an estimated breakdown per serving (assuming 4 servings from the 1.5 cups yield):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	350 kcal	18%
Total Fat	35g	54%
Saturated Fat	5g	25%
Cholesterol	0mg	0%
Sodium	180mg	8%
Total Carbohydrate	7g	2%
Dietary Fiber	0.5g	2%
Sugars	5g	10%
Protein	0.5g	1%
Vitamin A	0%
Vitamin C	0%
Calcium	1%
Iron	1%

Note: Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Variations & Substitutions

While Freda Marie’s original recipe is perfection in its simplicity, there’s always room for creative interpretation in the kitchen. Here are a few ideas to personalize this stellar vinaigrette:

• Herbaceous Infusion: For an added layer of complexity, consider adding finely chopped fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or tarragon. Whisk them in at the same time you add the honey, salt, and pepper.
• Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes or a tiny dash of your favorite hot sauce can be whisked in with the final seasonings.
• Sweetener Swap: While honey offers a distinct flavor, maple syrup or agave nectar can be used as alternatives for a slightly different sweet note. Adjust the quantity to your taste.
• Vinegar Alternatives: While red wine vinegar is classic, you could experiment with other mild vinegars like champagne vinegar or a white balsamic vinegar for a subtly different profile.

FAQs

Q: Why does my vinaigrette look separated after sitting in the fridge?
A: This is completely normal! The oil and vinegar will naturally separate over time. Simply give it a vigorous whisk to re-emulsify before serving.

Q: Can I make this vinaigrette without shallots?
A: Yes, while shallots add a lovely mild oniony sweetness, you can omit them if necessary. The garlic will provide enough aromatic punch on its own.

Q: How long can I store this vinaigrette?
A: When stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator, Freda Marie’s Dijon Vinaigrette will keep well for up to two weeks.

Q: Is it okay to use bottled garlic or garlic powder?
A: For the best flavor and freshest taste, it’s highly recommended to use fresh garlic. Bottled garlic and garlic powder will alter the flavor profile significantly.

Q: What’s the best way to ensure my vinaigrette is creamy and not oily?
A: The key is to drizzle the olive oil in a slow, steady stream while whisking continuously. This gradual incorporation is essential for a stable emulsion.

Final Thoughts

Freda Marie’s Dijon Vinaigrette is a testament to the power of simple, quality ingredients treated with care. It’s the kind of recipe that proves you don’t need a lengthy ingredient list or complicated techniques to achieve something truly delicious. It’s a workhorse dressing that will quickly become a staple in your kitchen, a reliable companion for countless salads and beyond. I encourage you to give it a try, to experience its vibrant zest and subtle elegance. Share your culinary adventures with this vinaigrette in your favorite green salads, or perhaps experiment with its versatility as a marinade for chicken or fish. Happy whisking!