Zesty Apple Cider Vinaigrette

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Dress up your salads with this easy-to-make Zesty Apple Cider Vinaigrette. Ready in minutes, it is a simple way to add a delicious, refreshing twist to salads that can sometimes get a little boring!

This recipe is: Low Carb, Keto, Gluten Free, Dairy Free, Paleo, Vegetarian and Vegan

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Table of Contents

7 Reasons to love this recipe

Thinking why this vinaigrette recipe is worth the shot? Let me convince you! This recipe is:

  1. Low carb & keto-friendly.
  2. Versatile as a dressing or marinade.
  3. Easy to customize to taste.
  4. Quick to prepare.
  5. No added sugars or sweeteners.
  6. Long-lasting in the fridge.
  7. Uses simple, inexpensive ingredients.

Is Zesty Apple Cider Vinaigrette low carb?

Yes, apple cider vinaigrette is low carb and even keto-friendly addition to your salads. It has olive oil in it that oil contains no carbohydrates. Each tablespoon of mustard contains approximately .5g of carbs, so the net carbs for the entire recipe is just over 1g. You can enjoy it without worrying about the carb content because it is quite low.
Ingredients to make apple cider vinaigrette salad dressing

🥗 Ingredient List for Apple Cider Vinaigrette Recipe

Here is a basic list of the ingredients needed for this zesty apple cider vinaigrette recipe:

Ingredient Substitutions:

See anything that you want to skip? Here are some keto-friendly and low carb substitutes:

  • Olive oil: Use avocado oil for a lighter taste or MCT oil if you choose.
  • Apple cider vinegar: Stick with organic for a milder taste, but non-organic works in a pinch.
  • Dijon mustard: Whole grain mustard for texture or Stadium mustard is a good backup if Dijon is unavailable. Avoid yellow mustard, as it significantly changes the flavor profile.

Ingredient Additions

Are you someone like me with a higher taste palate? Let's try these optional additions:

  • Garlic (1 clove, minced): For those who love garlic, adding a clove of minced garlic can introduce a robust flavor to the vinaigrette. PLEASE NOTE: Refrigeration is necessary after adding fresh garlic.
  • Sweetener: If you prefer a touch of sweetness in your dressing, honey can balance the tanginess of the vinegar. If you are low carb or keto, adding monk fruit, stevia or erythritol are good alternatives. Adjust the amount based on your sweetness preference.
  • Herbs: Fresh or dried herbs such as thyme, oregano, or basil can be added to create a herbed vinaigrette. Start with ½ teaspoon of dried herbs or one tablespoon of fresh, chopped herbs and adjust to taste. Refrigeration is necessary after adding fresh herbs.
  • Shallots (1 tablespoon, finely chopped): Shallots can be a wonderful addition to any dish. They provide a milder oniony bite than raw onions. However, they must be refrigerated after being added.
  • Red pepper flakes: A pinch can add a spicy element for those who like their dressing with a bit of heat. A great substitute is a touch of cayenne to retain the creamy texture of the dressing.

Cooking Tools (Suggestions)

To make this easy salad dressing, you will need the following kitchen tools:

How to make Zesty Apple Cider Vinaigrette: A Complete Guide

Cooking Method

No Cook Recipe

Preparation Steps

Making this recipe at home is very easy. Let’s work together and start by adding all the ingredients with the exception of the oil to a small bowl.

Mix the mustard and vinegar well with a whisk. This sets stage for emulsification. Slowly add the olive oil, starting with a couple of tablespoons, whisking constantly. You will see the dressing thicken and the oil disappear before adding more oil.

Continue adding oil and mixing until the oil is fully incorporated into the dressing.

This methodical addition of oil, paired with consistent stirring, guarantees a creamy vinaigrette that will not separate.

Cooking Steps

Step 1: add all the ingredients but the oil to a bowl. Mix well with a whisk to emulsify.

Step 2: continue adding oil and whisking until the oil is completely incorporated. 

💡 My Pro Tip

If you make this in a blender or pour all the oil in at once, it will separate. It is important to emulsify the oil a little bit at a time, which will allow the dressing to sit for long periods of time without separating. Start by making a small emulsification and simply adding a little oil at a time.

⏲️ Time Saving Tips

  1. Make ahead: This zesty apple cider vinaigrette keeps incredibly well in the refrigerator. Whip up a large batch to have it ready for any occasion that calls for a salad dressing.

  2. Versatility: Not just for salads, this dressing tastes fantastic on oven-baked or grilled chicken breasts. Simply pour it over the top for a delectable meal that is ready on the fly.

  3. Old school: Believe it or not, it actually takes longer to get the blender or food processor out for this recipe—especially when you consider the cleanup! Stick to the old school method and mix by hand for an easy and efficient experience.

Storage 

Storing this zesty apple cider vinaigrette is straightforward and convenient. When prepared according to the instructions, without any additions, it can be stored at room temperature, thanks to the preserving nature of vinegar and oil. 

STORAGE NOTE: I keep several jars on the counter filled with various homemade salad dressings. When you're using stable ingredients such as oil, vinegar, mustard, and salt, there's no need for refrigeration once they're mixed together.

However, if you choose to personalize your vinaigrette with any additional ingredients such as garlic, refrigeration becomes necessary.

In such cases, ensure your dressing is kept in a sealed container in the fridge, where it will stay fresh for approximately 10 days.

Additional amazing salad dressing recipes

  • Hot Bacon Salad Dressing: If you’ve never tried a Hot Bacon Salad Dressing before, get ready to savor the flavor… because it is simply delightful. You’ll forget you’re even eating a salad.
  • Avocado Lime Salad Dressing: Brighten up your greens with this creamy Avocado Lime Salad Dressing. If you are looking to add more fats to your daily macros, this is a great way to do it!
  • Homemade Blue Cheese Dressing: Indulge in the bold and tangy flavors of this Homemade Blue Cheese Dressing. This is my favorite blue cheese dressing and I am a blue cheese fanatic. Simply delicious.
  • Sundried Tomato Vinaigrette: Transform your salads with the rich, intense flavors of Sundried Tomato Vinaigrette, a perfect blend of tangy tomatoes and smooth olive oil that's as vibrant as it is delicious.
  • Keto Ranch Dressing: Enjoy the classic taste of Ranch Dressing, perfectly adapted for a low carb lifestyle, with this homemade version that's as creamy and herby as any other recipe.

Conclusion: A Flavorful Finale

This recipe for apple cider vinaigrette is a testament to the ease and joy of homemade dressings. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a dressing that's not only better than store-bought versions but also a perfect companion to a variety of dishes.
 
It's an effortless way to elevate your low carb lifestyle and keep things fresh in the kitchen. Now, that’s what I call a win-win.
Please write in the comments any questions or suggestions you may have. You can also find us on Facebook or Instagram.

Other Salad Recipes To Try:

FAQ's

Yes, apple cider vinegar is an excellent choice for salad dressings. Its tangy flavor is a great balance for greens and vegetables, adding a refreshing zing that enhances the overall taste of the salad.

Yes, the homemade version of zesty apple cider vinaigrette is gluten-free. It uses simple ingredients like olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper, to ensure that the dressing is safe for those with gluten sensitivities.

The classic ratio for oil to vinegar in a vinaigrette is 3:1, meaning three parts oil to one part vinegar. This balance offers a nice balance of richness from the oil with the sharpness of the vinegar and prevents the dressing from separating.

Zesty Apple Cider Vinaigrette

This recipe is not only easy to make but also aligns with low carb and keto-friendly lifestyles, bringing a fresh twist to boring salad greens! Ready in minutes, it will really add a punch of flavor to your next salad.
5 from 2 votes
Print Pin Rate
Course: Salad Dressing, Sauce
Cuisine: French
Keyword: apple cider vinaigrette, apple cider vinaigrette recipe, cider vinaigrette, easy vinaigrette recipe, zesty vinaigrette
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 16 Tablespoons
Calories: 92kcal
Author: Scott Groth

Ingredients

  • ¾ cup olive oil
  • ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¼ teaspoon pepper

Instructions

  • In a bowl, add all of the ingredients but the olive oil. Mix well with a whisk or a fork.
  • Add 1-2 tablespoons of oil to the mustard mixture. Mix well. It will start to emulsify.
  • Continue to stir and add in the oil until fully incorporated. Taste and adjust the seasonings to your preference.

Notes

Other Uses:
Here are some great other uses for this zesty apple cider vinaigrette:
  • Marinade: use as a marinade for chicken breasts, pork chops, or pork tenderloin. Add some of the zesty apple cider vinaigrette to a resealing plastic bag along with your protein of choice. Allow to sit for an hour before cooking. Remember to discard any uncooked marinade.
  • Dipping sauce: My family loves to use this sauce to dip grilled lamb chops or even Italian or other sausages. The acid provides a great contrast to the fats found in many proteins. Experiment, and let me know what your favorite combos are, too!
If you have questions or suggestions, please leave them in the comments! I know you're going to love this recipe- give it a shot!

Nutrition

Nutrition Facts
Zesty Apple Cider Vinaigrette
Amount Per Serving (1 Tbsp)
Calories 92 Calories from Fat 90
% Daily Value*
Fat 10g15%
Saturated Fat 1g5%
Polyunsaturated Fat 1g
Monounsaturated Fat 7g
Sodium 130mg5%
Potassium 6mg0%
Carbohydrates 0.2g0%
Fiber 0.1g0%
Sugar 0.04g0%
Protein 0.1g0%
Vitamin A 2IU0%
Vitamin C 0.01mg0%
Calcium 2mg0%
Iron 0.1mg1%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

“This website provides approximate nutrition data and information for convenience and as a courtesy only.”

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Scott Groth image for I'd Rather Be A Chef

I'm Scott, just a regular guy who has experienced amazing benefits from embracing a low carb (occasionally keto) lifestyle. Join me as I share low carb recipes that are family friendly, delicious and fun to eat.

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