Name: Herbes de Provence Salad Dressing
Prep time: 2 min
Cook time: 1 min
Total time: 3 min
Ingredients: 2 tbsp dijon mustard; 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed); 1 tsp maple syrup; 1/2 teaspoon sea salt; 1 tbsp herbes de Provence; 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

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Whenever I think of bright and flavorful dishes, the first thing that comes to mind is my homemade Herbes de Provence Salad Dressing. This dressing has been a staple in my kitchen for years, and it never fails to elevate a simple salad to something extraordinary. I remember the first time I made it; I was looking for a way to bring a taste of the Mediterranean to my dinner table. The vibrant herbs and tangy ingredients created a symphony of flavors that perfectly complemented the fresh greens and vegetables. Now, every time I drizzle this delicious dressing over my salads, I feel transported to a sun-drenched garden in the south of France.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
3 mins

Prep Time:
2 mins

Cook Time:
1 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
120 kcal

Protein:
0 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
12 g

Tools Used:
Oven

Why This Herbes de Provence Salad Dressing Is a Winner

It’s Simplicity at Its Best

One of the reasons I adore this Herbes de Provence Salad Dressing is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dressing that tastes like it came from a gourmet kitchen. It’s the kind of recipe that allows you to enjoy the process without feeling overwhelmed. You just mix everything together and voilà!

Fresh, Flavorful Ingredients

The beauty of this dressing lies in its fresh ingredients. Each element, from the dijon mustard to the extra virgin olive oil, plays a crucial role in creating a balanced flavor profile. The herbes de Provence bring an aromatic quality that is simply irresistible.

Versatile for Any Salad

This dressing isn’t just for one specific type of salad; it works wonders on any greens you have on hand. Whether you’re tossing together a classic garden salad or something more elaborate, this dressing enhances every bite.

Quick and Easy to Make

Another great aspect of this Herbes de Provence Salad Dressing is how quick and easy it is to whip up. With just a few minutes of your time, you can have a delicious dressing ready to go. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something fresh and wholesome.

A Touch of Mediterranean Magic

Lastly, I love that this dressing brings a touch of Mediterranean magic to my meals. It’s a reminder of leisurely dinners spent outdoors, surrounded by friends and laughter. Every time I serve it, I know I’m sharing a bit of that joy with my family.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Herbes de Provence Salad Dressing

The ingredients for this dressing are not only simple but also work together beautifully to create a harmonious flavor. Each component contributes to the overall balance, from the tangy notes of the lemon juice to the rich depth of the extra virgin olive oil. Here’s what you’ll need:

2 tbsp dijon mustard: This adds a wonderful tang and helps emulsify the dressing.
1 tbsp lemon juice, freshly squeezed: The acidity of the lemon brightens the flavors.
1 tsp maple syrup: A hint of sweetness balances the acidity.
1/2 teaspoon sea salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
1 tbsp herbes de Provence: This blend of herbs brings an aromatic quality to the dressing.
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil: The base of the dressing that adds richness.

Cooking Instructions for Herbes de Provence Salad Dressing

The process of making this dressing is as delightful as its taste. You’ll find that it’s incredibly straightforward, allowing you to focus on what really matters: enjoying your meal. Let’s get started!

Begin by gathering all of your ingredients. You’ll need a mixing bowl or a 10-12 oz jar to combine everything.
In the jar or bowl, add 2 tablespoons of dijon mustard. This is the star ingredient, providing a robust flavor.
Next, squeeze in 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice. The lemon juice adds a zesty brightness that is simply irresistible.
Now, measure out 1 teaspoon of maple syrup and add it to the mix. This will offer a lovely touch of sweetness.
Add 1/2 teaspoon of sea salt. It’s important to season your dressing to enhance all the flavors.
Sprinkle in 1 tablespoon of herbes de Provence. This fragrant herb blend will take your dressing to the next level.
Finally, pour in 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil. This ingredient is key for a rich and velvety texture.
Once all the ingredients are in the jar, screw the lid on tightly. If you’re using a bowl, grab a whisk.
Shake the jar vigorously for about 30 seconds to emulsify the vinaigrette. If whisking, make sure to whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
After shaking, taste your dressing. If necessary, adjust seasonings to your liking. Maybe a tad more salt or a squeeze more lemon?
Your Herbes de Provence Salad Dressing is now ready! Serve it generously over your favorite salad and enjoy!

Things Worth Knowing

Emulsification: When creating dressings, emulsifying is key. This means combining oil and vinegar or other liquids to prevent separation. Shake or whisk well!
Storage: Store any leftover dressing in the refrigerator. It should last for about a week.
Flavor development: Allowing the dressing to sit for a bit before using can enhance its flavors as the ingredients meld together.
Adjusting flavors: Don’t hesitate to tweak the flavors. If you prefer it sweeter, add more maple syrup. If you like it tangier, add more lemon juice.

How to Switch It Up

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are countless ways to customize this Herbes de Provence Salad Dressing. Here are some ideas to inspire you:

Fresh herbs: Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a different flavor profile.
Garlic: Incorporate minced garlic for an extra kick of flavor.
Mustard variations: Experiment with different types of mustard, such as whole grain, to add a unique texture and taste.
Vinegars: Try using balsamic or red wine vinegar instead of lemon juice for a different acidity.
Seasoning blends: Swap in different seasoning blends, like Italian seasoning, for a twist on the original.

What to Serve With Herbes de Provence Salad Dressing

Serving your Herbes de Provence Salad Dressing opens a world of delicious possibilities. Let’s explore some ideas:

Mixed greens: This dressing pairs wonderfully with any mixed greens salad, enhancing the freshness of the leaves.
Grilled vegetables: Drizzle it over grilled vegetables for a delightful side dish. The flavors of the dressing complement the smoky char perfectly.
Pasta salads: Add this dressing to pasta salads for an extra layer of flavor. It works beautifully with roasted vegetables and fresh herbs.
Sandwiches: Use it as a spread or drizzle on sandwiches for added zest.
Seafood dishes: Pair this dressing with seafood salads for a light and refreshing meal.
Meal prep: Prepare a large batch to use throughout the week. It’s perfect for topping off quick lunch salads or grain bowls.
Seasonal dishes: Incorporate seasonal ingredients to your salads to make the most of what’s fresh and available.

FAQ

Herbes de Provence is a fragrant blend of dried herbs typically used in French cooking. It often includes thyme, basil, oregano, and rosemary, providing a delightful Mediterranean flavor. This blend is perfect for seasoning meats, vegetables, and, of course, salad dressings like the Herbes de Provence Salad Dressing. It adds depth and freshness to your dishes.

Absolutely! The Herbes de Provence Salad Dressing can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. In fact, allowing it to sit for a few hours or overnight can enhance the flavors as the ingredients meld together. Just remember to shake or stir it well before serving to recombine any separation that occurs.

This dressing is incredibly versatile. It works wonderfully with classic mixed green salads, but it can also elevate grain salads, pasta salads, or even simple vegetable salads. Just drench your favorite ingredients in this Herbes de Provence Salad Dressing, and you’ll enjoy a burst of flavor in every bite!

Store any leftover Herbes de Provence Salad Dressing in an airtight container or jar in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for up to a week. Just give it a good shake before each use, as the oil and vinegar may separate over time. Enjoy it over salads, grilled vegetables, or even as a marinade!

Conclusion

The Herbes de Provence Salad Dressing is more than just a condiment; it’s a gateway to a world of flavors that can transform your meals. It’s quick, easy, and brings a fresh burst of taste to any dish. I encourage you to try making it and see how much it can elevate your salads and side dishes. You won’t be disappointed!