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Shallot Vinaigrette

Writer: Maddie Umali
Maddie Umali
Jul 27
2 min read

This bright, savory vinaigrette is the kind of dressing that makes almost any salad better. Fresh lemon, shallot, garlic, mustard, and a touch of maple syrup come together in a dressing that is tangy, balanced, and easy to make in just a few minutes.


It is especially good on hearty greens like kale and Brussels sprouts, but it also works beautifully on grain bowls, roasted vegetables, or simple mixed greens.

Yield: About ½ cup

Servings: 6-8

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 0 minutes

Total Time: 10 minutes


Ingredients

  • 1 large shallot, finely minced

  • 1 garlic clove, grated

  • Zest and juice of 1 lemon

  • 1 teaspoon Dijon or whole-grain mustard

  • 1 teaspoon maple syrup or honey

  • ⅓ cup extra-virgin olive oil

  • Kosher salt

  • Freshly ground black pepper


Instructions

  1. Add the shallot, garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, mustard, maple syrup, and olive oil to a jar with a tight-fitting lid.

  2. Season with a generous pinch of salt and several grinds of black pepper.

  3. Secure the lid and shake vigorously until the vinaigrette is well combined. You can also whisk everything together in a small bowl.

  4. Taste and adjust as needed with more lemon juice, mustard, salt, or pepper.

  5. Use immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.


Serving Suggestions

Use this vinaigrette with:

  • Kale or Brussels sprout salads

  • Mixed greens

  • Grain bowls

  • Roasted vegetables

  • Grilled chicken

  • Roasted salmon

  • White bean salads

Storage

Store in an airtight jar in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.


The olive oil may solidify slightly when chilled. Let the dressing sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes, then shake well before serving.

Maddie's Tip

Let the minced shallot sit in the lemon juice for about 5 minutes before adding the remaining ingredients. The acid softens the shallot’s sharp bite and gives the vinaigrette a smoother, more balanced flavor.

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