Gordon Ramsay’s Dijon Salad Dressing Recipe [+Tips & Tricks]

Gordon Ramsay’s Dijon Salad Dressing is a perfect blend of sharpness, creaminess, and tanginess that elevates any salad with a gourmet touch. It’s quick to make, full of flavor, and an ideal way to transform your everyday salads into something extraordinary.

What Is Gordon Ramsay’s Dijon Salad Dressing

Gordon Ramsay’s Dijon Salad Dressing is a flavorful and versatile vinaigrette made using Dijon mustard, fresh lemon juice, olive oil, and a balance of seasonings. This dressing is creamy and tangy with a hint of sweetness, providing a delightful contrast to fresh greens and vegetables. Perfect for light salads, it’s not only delicious but also easy to whip up in a few simple steps.

Gordon Ramsay’s Dijon Salad Dressing Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make Gordon Ramsay’s Dijon Salad Dressing, you will need the following ingredients:

• Dijon Mustard – 2 tablespoons. This provides the tangy and slightly spicy base for the dressing.
• Lemon Juice – 2 tablespoons. Freshly squeezed for a burst of acidity and brightness.
• Olive Oil – ½ cup. Extra virgin olive oil works best, offering richness and smooth texture.
• Honey – 1 teaspoon. A touch of sweetness that balances the sharpness of the mustard.
• Salt – ¼ teaspoon. A pinch of salt to season and enhance the flavors.
• Black Pepper – ¼ teaspoon. Freshly cracked pepper for a bit of spice.
• Garlic (optional) – 1 small clove, minced (for extra depth).

These ingredients combine harmoniously to create a dressing that is creamy, tangy, and just the right amount of savory.

Equipment Needed

For preparing the Dijon Salad Dressing, you will need:

• Small Mixing Bowl – For whisking together the ingredients.
• Whisk – To emulsify the dressing and ensure a smooth texture.
• Measuring Spoons – For accurate measurements of the ingredients.
• Lemon Juicer (optional) – To easily extract juice from the lemon without the seeds.
• Garlic Press (optional) – If you choose to include garlic, this tool makes it easy to mince it.

This equipment list is minimal, and the process of making the dressing is quick and straightforward.

How To Make Gordon Ramsay’s Dijon Salad Dressing?

Step 1: Combine The Ingredients

In a small mixing bowl, add 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard, 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon of honey. This forms the base of your dressing.

Step 2: Whisk And Emulsify

Whisk the ingredients together thoroughly until well combined. As you whisk, slowly drizzle in the olive oil, allowing it to emulsify into the mustard and lemon mixture.

This will give your dressing a creamy texture. Continue whisking until the dressing becomes smooth and velvety.

Step 3: Season And Adjust

Add ¼ teaspoon of salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. If you love garlic, this is the moment to add 1 small clove of finely minced garlic. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning if needed – you can add more honey for sweetness, lemon juice for acidity, or mustard for tang.

Step 4: Store Or Serve

Once your dressing is ready, use it immediately on your favorite salad, or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If the dressing separates over time, just give it a quick whisk to bring it back together.

Expert Tips

1. Use Fresh Lemon Juice – Fresh lemon juice is essential for the best flavor, so avoid pre-squeezed lemon juice, which can taste flat and overly processed.
2. Adjust the Mustard – If you prefer a milder dressing, you can reduce the amount of Dijon mustard. However, if you like a stronger mustard flavor, feel free to increase it.
3. Make It Vegan – To make the dressing vegan, replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.
4. Garlic Variations – For a more subtle garlic flavor, try roasted garlic instead of raw garlic for a sweeter, milder taste.
5. Use It Beyond Salads – This dressing is also excellent as a marinade for chicken, fish, or vegetables. It can even be drizzled over roasted potatoes or used as a dip for bread.

Gordon Ramsay’s Dijon Salad Dressing is the epitome of simple yet sophisticated flavors. Its versatility and balance of tang, sweetness, and richness make it the perfect addition to any meal.

Whether you are topping a crisp green salad or using it as a marinade, this dressing will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. It’s easy to make, uses everyday ingredients, and adds a professional touch to your dishes.

Easy Recipe Variations For Gordon Ramsay’s Dijon Salad Dressing

Gordon Ramsay’s Dijon Salad Dressing is a delicious and versatile condiment that can elevate any salad. While the basic recipe itself is simple and flavorful, there are plenty of ways to tweak it depending on your taste preferences or dietary restrictions. Here are a few easy variations you can try:

1. Honey Dijon Dressing: For those who like a touch of sweetness to balance the sharpness of the Dijon mustard, add a tablespoon of honey to the dressing. The sweetness complements the mustard perfectly, creating a deliciously balanced flavor. If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can also blend in a little bit of Greek yogurt or sour cream.
2. Creamy Dijon Dressing: If you love creamy dressings, try adding mayonnaise or sour cream to the mix. Start with a few tablespoons, then whisk until the dressing is creamy but still pourable. For a healthier option, you could swap the mayo for a small amount of avocado or plain yogurt.
3. Garlic Dijon Dressing: Add a little extra punch to your dressing with minced garlic. A clove or two should do the trick, adding depth and flavor. If you want the garlic flavor to be milder, you can roast the garlic before adding it to the dressing, which will provide a sweeter, more mellow taste.
4. Herb Dijon Dressing: Fresh herbs can add layers of complexity to your Dijon dressing. Try adding finely chopped basil, parsley, or chives. You could also experiment with thyme or tarragon for a more aromatic flavor profile. The herbs not only add flavor but also enhance the visual appeal of the dressing.
5. Spicy Dijon Dressing: If you’re looking for a spicy kick, mix in some chili flakes, sriracha, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper. This variation is perfect for those who like their salads with a little heat.
6. Lemon Dijon Dressing: For a fresh, zesty variation, add the juice and zest of a lemon. The acidity from the lemon complements the tang of the Dijon mustard and makes for an extra refreshing dressing-perfect for spring or summer salads.
7. Vegan Dijon Dressing: If you follow a plant-based diet, you can easily make this dressing vegan. Simply replace any dairy ingredients like honey or yogurt with maple syrup or agave nectar for sweetness, and opt for a plant-based mayonnaise or tahini to keep it creamy.

These variations can easily be made without needing to deviate too far from the original, ensuring you get a salad dressing that caters to your preferences every time!

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Storing leftover salad dressing is a great way to avoid waste and ensure you have a flavorful dressing on hand for future meals. Here are some best practices to keep in mind:

1. Airtight Container: Always store salad dressing in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. Mason jars, glass jars with tight-fitting lids, or even plastic bottles with screw-on caps work well. Glass containers are particularly good at preserving the flavor, as they are less likely to retain odors.
2. Refrigerate Immediately: Most homemade dressings, especially those with dairy or fresh ingredients like garlic and herbs, should be refrigerated immediately after use. This helps prevent bacterial growth and keeps the dressing safe to consume for longer periods. Dijon-based dressings typically last 4-7 days in the fridge.
3. Separation: It’s common for the oil and vinegar in salad dressings to separate when stored. This doesn’t mean the dressing is bad-it’s just natural. Simply give it a good shake or stir before using it again. For best results, store the dressing in a container that’s easy to shake up.
4. Labeling: To keep track of how long your dressing has been stored, label your container with the date it was made. This will help you ensure that it’s used within a reasonable time frame and reduce the risk of using it past its prime.
5. Freezing: While it’s not the most ideal option, you can freeze salad dressing if you have a large batch and won’t be able to use it within a week. Pour the dressing into ice cube trays, freeze, and then transfer the cubes into a zip-top bag. When ready to use, simply thaw the cubes overnight in the fridge. Keep in mind that creamy dressings may separate or change texture after freezing, but vinaigrettes tend to fare better.

What Goes Well With Dijon Salad Dressing?

Dijon Salad Dressing is wonderfully versatile and can complement a wide variety of dishes beyond just salads. Here’s a list of foods and ingredients that pair beautifully with it:

1. Leafy Greens: This dressing is perfect for fresh greens like arugula, spinach, or mixed baby greens. The tangy mustard flavor complements the peppery taste of arugula or the mildness of spinach.
2. Grilled Vegetables: Roasted or grilled vegetables, especially root vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, and beets, work wonderfully with Dijon dressing. The mustard-based dressing adds an extra layer of flavor that contrasts nicely with the natural sweetness of roasted vegetables.
3. Potato Salad: Dijon dressing can be used as a lighter, healthier alternative to mayonnaise in potato salads. It adds brightness and a bit of zing that elevates the flavor of boiled potatoes.
4. Chicken: Whether it’s grilled, roasted, or baked, chicken is an excellent protein to pair with Dijon dressing. It’s especially good on chicken salads, or as a drizzle over grilled chicken breasts or thighs.
5. Tuna Salad: For a twist on the classic tuna salad, use Dijon dressing instead of traditional mayo. It gives the tuna a flavorful zing and enhances the freshness of the salad.
6. Sandwiches & Wraps: Spread Dijon salad dressing onto sandwiches or wraps to add extra flavor without the heaviness of mayonnaise. It’s especially good with turkey, chicken, or veggie wraps.
7. Seafood: The tangy and slightly sharp flavor of Dijon works beautifully with seafood, particularly salmon or shrimp. You could use it as a dressing for a seafood salad or drizzle it over grilled shrimp skewers.
8. Cheese Platters: Dijon dressing can also serve as a unique dip for cheese platters. It pairs particularly well with sharp cheeses like brie, goat cheese, or blue cheese, cutting through their richness and adding balance.
9. Roasted Meats: Dijon dressing can be served alongside roasted meats such as beef, lamb, or pork. The acidity and sharpness help to cut through the richness of the meat and complement its flavor.

Conclusion

Gordon Ramsay’s Dijon Salad Dressing is an easy yet sophisticated way to bring vibrant flavors to your meals. Whether you’re using the basic recipe or exploring variations like honey Dijon, creamy Dijon, or spicy Dijon, there are countless ways to customize this dressing to suit your taste.

Storing leftovers is simple, and with the right practices, your dressing can stay fresh for several days. Finally, don’t hesitate to experiment with different pairings, as this dressing works wonderfully with everything from leafy greens to roasted meats and seafood. Whether you’re drizzling it over a salad or using it as a dip, the versatility of Dijon dressing will never disappoint.

FAQs

What Ingredients Are In Gordon Ramsay’s Dijon Salad Dressing?

Gordon Ramsay’s Dijon salad dressing typically includes Dijon mustard, white wine vinegar or red wine vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Some variations may include a touch of honey or lemon juice for added balance.

How Do You Make Gordon Ramsay’s Dijon Salad Dressing Step-by-step?

To make it: (1) Whisk together 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard with 1 tablespoon of vinegar in a bowl. (2) Add 1 finely minced garlic clove.

(3) Slowly drizzle in about 3-4 tablespoons of olive oil while whisking vigorously to emulsify. (4) Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Can I Substitute Another Mustard For Dijon In This Dressing?

While Dijon mustard provides a distinct tangy and smooth flavor, you can substitute it with whole grain mustard for more texture or yellow mustard for a milder taste. However, these will alter the overall flavor profile.

Is Gordon Ramsay’s Dijon Salad Dressing Vegan?

Yes, the standard recipe is vegan as it includes no animal products. However, always check for optional ingredients like honey, which some vegans avoid. Maple syrup is a good alternative if added.

What Type Of Vinegar Does Gordon Ramsay Recommend For This Dressing?

Gordon Ramsay usually recommends red wine vinegar or white wine vinegar for a bright, sharp flavor that complements the Dijon mustard. Balsamic vinegar can be used for a sweeter, deeper twist.

How Long Can You Store Gordon Ramsay’s Dijon Salad Dressing?

When stored in an airtight container or jar in the refrigerator, this dressing can last for up to 5-7 days. Shake well before each use, as separation may occur.

Can This Dressing Be Used As A Marinade?

Yes, this dressing works well as a marinade for chicken, fish, or vegetables due to its acidity and mustard content, which help tenderize and flavor the ingredients.

What Salads Pair Best With This Dijon Dressing?

It pairs beautifully with mixed greens, arugula, roasted beet salads, or Nicoise salads. The dressing complements bold greens and ingredients like goat cheese, walnuts, or grilled proteins.

How Can I Make The Dressing Creamier?

For a creamier version, you can whisk in a spoonful of Greek yogurt or mayonnaise. This will mellow the tanginess and give the dressing a smooth texture ideal for heartier salads.

What’s The Ideal Oil-to-vinegar Ratio In Gordon Ramsay’s Dressing?

The ideal ratio is generally 3 parts oil to 1 part vinegar. Ramsay may slightly adjust this based on taste, but this standard ratio helps create a well-balanced and emulsified dressing.