This sherry-shallot dressing is bright, fresh, and unbelievably simple. Packed with flavor, this vinaigrette will make you rethink buying store-bought dressings.
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Why you’ll love it
Sherry vinegar is a Spanish vinegar made from sherry wine. It’s similar to red wine vinegar but with a touch more sweetness and milder acidity, which makes it ideal for flavorful dressings.
This sherry-shallot vinaigrette combines sherry vinegar with delicate shallots and fresh garlic for a bright, balanced dressing. It’s simple to make with everyday ingredients and tastes far better than most bottled options.
Use it to finish a simple green salad, elevate a weeknight dinner, or drizzle over a composed salad like arugula with pear, toasted pecans, and feta.
Ingredients you’ll need
- Sherry vinegar: The star of this dressing. If needed, red wine or white wine vinegar are fine substitutes.
- Extra virgin olive oil: Adds body and flavor; it’s my preferred oil for vinaigrettes.
- Shallots: Provide a mild, sweet onion flavor. If you’re not blending, mince them very finely.
- Fresh garlic: One small clove gives fresh bite. Mince finely if you’re whisking by hand.
- Honey: A touch of sweetener to balance the acidity. Maple or agave also work.
- Dijon mustard: Adds flavor and helps emulsify the dressing.
- Salt and black pepper to taste.
How to make this dressing
- Blender or food processor: Add all ingredients and blend on high until smooth and emulsified.
- Small bowl or jar: Finely mince shallot and garlic, add the remaining ingredients, then whisk vigorously until emulsified. Alternatively, place everything in a mason jar, secure the lid, and shake until combined.
Shake or whisk again before serving, as the dressing can separate when stored.
Recipe FAQ
How long does this dressing last?
Store the dressing in the refrigerator for up to one week. Give it a good shake before serving since ingredients can separate.
What can I substitute for sherry vinegar?
Red wine vinegar or white wine vinegar are the closest substitutes. Other vinegars such as apple cider, balsamic, champagne, or white balsamic will also work but will change the flavor profile slightly.
Which salads go best with this sherry-shallot dressing?
This vinaigrette complements most green salads. It’s especially good with hearty greens like kale, peppery arugula, or shaved Brussels sprouts, and also pairs nicely with butter lettuce. It’s a great match for salads featuring fruit and tangy cheeses like feta, gorgonzola, or goat cheese.
Variation ideas
- Squeeze in fresh citrus like lemon or orange for brightness.
- Add chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or chives.
- Make it creamy by stirring in 1–2 tablespoons mayonnaise or Greek yogurt.
- Mix in grated Parmesan for a salty, savory boost.
More homemade dressings:
2-Minute Honey Lime Vinaigrette
Easy Citrus Balsamic Vinaigrette Dressing
Sweet Onion Dijon Vinaigrette Dressing
The Best Italian Sub Dressing (Quick and Easy!)
Sherry Shallot Dressing (Easy Salad Vinaigrette)
Jamie N, Registered Dietitian
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Ingredients
- 1 small shallot, finely minced if not using a blender
- 1 small garlic clove, finely minced if not using a blender
- 2 tbsp sherry vinegar
- 1 tsp honey
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard
- salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
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In a blender or food processor: Add all ingredients and blend on high until smooth and emulsified.
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In a small bowl or jar: Finely mince the shallot and garlic, combine all ingredients, and whisk until emulsified. Or place ingredients in a mason jar, tighten the lid, and shake until combined.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should only be used as an estimate.