This homemade maple balsamic dressing is one of those simple recipes that instantly upgrades a salad. It comes together in minutes and works beautifully on everything from everyday greens to more seasonal salads with fruit, nuts, or roasted vegetables.
Once upon a time my fridge was full of every kind of store bought dressing. And then one day when I was on a health kick I started taking a look at some of the labels of these dressings only to be horrified by the amount of preservatives and un-pronounceable ingredients were packed into each bottle. I set out on a mission recreate my beloved condiments using fresh, simple ingredients and I have never looked back.
This delightful Maple Balsamic Dressing is one of my absolute favorite vinaigrettes. Not only is it incredibly easy to make, but it goes with a variety of salads and can be enjoyed in any season. I hope you love this salad as much as we do!
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What is the difference between a salad dressing and a vinaigrette?
While all vinaigrettes can be considered dressings, not all dressings are vinaigrettes. Basically a salad dressing is any sauce that you would put on a salad. And a vinaigrette is a particular type of sauce consisting of a combination of oil and vinegar, often with a bit of sweetness and seasonings add in.
More salad and dressing recipes for you to enjoy.
Equipment
My favorite way to make salad dressings and vinaigrettes is simply to combine all of the ingredients in a mason jar with a lid and then shake it up.
However, if you prefer you can always whisk this dressing up in a mixing bowl or I also like this Oxo Good Grips Salad Dressing Shaker for easy measuring and pouring.
Ingredients
- Olive oil: Use good quality, pure extra virgin olive oil for the best results.
- Balsamic vinegar: This is a key flavor in this dressing so use a good quality balsamic for the best results.
- Maple syrup: I highly recommend using 100% pure maple syrup for this recipe. Pancake syrup and other artificial maple syrups won't give you the same delicious results.
- Garlic clove: I highly recommend crushing a fresh clove of garlic for this recipe, rather than jarred, minced garlic.
- Dried thyme: You can substitute with fresh if desired.
- Salt & pepper
How should I store this dressing?
Store in an air tight container in the fridge for up to one week.
This vinaigrette separates easily so you will need to shake or stir for 10-15 seconds before serving.
More recipes you will love.
Melon, Cucumber and Watermelon Salad with Honey, Mint and Lime Vinaigrette
Made this Maple Balsamic Dressing recipe? Let me know what you think in the comments!
Recipe
Maple Balsamic Dressing
Equipment
- mason jar with lid or salad dressing shaker
Ingredients
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
- ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 garlic clove, crushed
- 2 tablespoon pure maple syrup
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- salt & pepper
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a mason jar with a lid (or small mixing bowl with a whisk). Screw the lid on tight and shake vigorously for about 30 seconds until well combined.*Alternatively you can whisk the ingredients together until emulsified.*Serve and enjoy!
Lindsay
OMG I served this over a grilled chicken salad and it was incredible. Great recipe!
Mary
I had not thought of combining maple syrup and balsamic vinegar in a dressing but it was great! I am thinking this will be the sauce I use next time I made Brussels sprouts and butternut squash.
swathi
Maple balsamic dressing looks delicious and perfect sounds like we can use it along with various dishes. I am trying this.
Helen The Lazy Gastronome
The balsamic vinegar, and the maple in this recipe go together so amazingly good. This dressing can be used not only on salads, but on vegetables, even chicken.
Julia
Ooh, we've been eating so many chicken salad lately and I really needed to shake it up. The sweetness of the maple syrup was a nice touch in the balsamic!