Whether you use a whisk & bowl, mortar & pestle, blender, food processor – or THIS cute little salad dressing shaker – vinaigrettes are simple and versatile. Here is a collection of a few favourites of mine (and friends of mine)…

All Purpose Vinaigrette

• 3/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup vinegar
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp dried mixed herbs
• 1-2 tsp grainy dijon
• fresh ground black pepper

Whisk all ingredients together in a small bowl or shake in a mason jar to emulsify.

Basic Lemon Vinaigrette

• 2/3 cup olive oil
• 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice
• salt & freshly ground pepper

Whisk oil and lemon juice in a small bowl or shake in a resealable jar to emulsify; season with salt and pepper.

Honey Dijon Vinaigrette

• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
• 1 tbsp dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp honey
• salt & pepper to taste

Put all ingredients in a jar and shake until well mixed. For a creamier texture pulse all ingredients except oil in a blender to combine. With the blender running, slowly add the olive oil. Season to taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Spinach Salad Vinaigrette

• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
• 1 tbsp grain dijon mustard
• salt & pepper to taste

Combine all ingredients in a mason jar, and shake vigorously. Drizzle on your favorite spinach salad!