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Maple Balsamic Vinaigrette

A white bowl with maple balsamic vinaigrette. A small green salad sits nearby as does a spoon with some drops of dressing on a marble table.

This classic balsamic vinaigrette is sweetened with real maple syrup and is the perfect addition to your salad!

Like many American households, my family had a collection of prepared salad dressing bottles in our refrigerator. Honestly, I didn’t even realize that making your own dressing was an option until I became an adult! Now, this simple Maple Balsamic Vinaigrette is my go-to for homemade salads.

Once you discover how easy it is to whip up a delicious vinaigrette at home, you’ll never want to go back to the store-bought stuff. I always have the ingredients on hand, and it takes just five minutes to prepare!

This vinaigrette strikes the perfect balance between the tangy acidity of balsamic vinegar and the natural sweetness of maple syrup. I particularly love it drizzled over my Green Salad with Grapes, Gorgonzola, and Pistachios, but honestly, it elevates just about any salad.

If you need more convincing, this vinaigrette is one of the recipes I receive the most compliments on. When I cook for friends or family, I always include a salad dressed with this Maple Balsamic Vinaigrette. Without fail, someone will ask for the recipe or declare it the best dressing they’ve ever tasted.

There’s a reason this vinaigrette has earned a permanent spot in my kitchen. Give it a try – you won’t be disappointed!

Ingredients for vinaigrette. There is dijon mustard, balsamic, maple syrup and olive oil in small dishes on a table.

Ingredients for Maple Balsamic Vinaigrette

This Maple Balsamic Vinaigrette comes together in under 5 minutes and can be made with items commonly found in most home pantries!

  • Maple Syrup: This natural sweetener, derived from the sap of sugar maple trees, adds a rich, caramel-like sweetness to the vinaigrette. It perfectly balances the acidity of the balsamic vinegar. Opt for pure maple syrup for the best quality and taste.

  • Dijon Mustard: A traditional mustard from France, Dijon is known for its smooth texture and distinctive flavor, enhanced by the addition of white wine. In salad dressings, it not only adds a tangy kick but also acts as an emulsifier, helping the oil and vinegar blend into a creamy, cohesive dressing.

  • Olive Oil: A staple in many kitchens, good quality olive oil brings a luscious richness and herbaceous flavor to the vinaigrette. 

  • Balsamic Vinegar: Made from the reduction of grape must, balsamic vinegar offers a complex blend of sweet and tangy flavors. Its dark, syrupy consistency adds richness and depth to the dressing, making it a perfect counterpoint to the sweetness of the maple syrup.

  • Worcestershire Sauce: A secret ingredient that enhances the dressing with its savory umami flavor, Worcestershire sauce is often associated with meats but adds a delightful complexity to salads as well. Just a dash can make your guests wonder, “What’s that delicious flavor?”

  • Salt and Ground Black Pepper: While often overlooked, salt and pepper are essential to bringing out the flavors of the vinaigrette. Freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle spice and warmth, while a pinch of salt enhances all the ingredients, making each bite incredibly satisfying.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use a different vinegar instead of balsamic?

While balsamic vinegar is what gives this vinaigrette its signature flavor, you can certainly experiment with other vinegars. Red wine vinegar works beautifully as an alternative and adds its own unique tang. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change slightly.

Can I use a different sweetener for this recipe?

I love the rich flavor of maple syrup in this vinaigrette, but you can absolutely substitute it with honey if you prefer. Both work well to balance the acidity. I recommend avoiding granulated sugar, as it tends to have difficulty dissolving in the liquids and may leave a grainy texture.

Can I use pancake syrup for this recipe instead of maple syrup?

I wouldn’t recommend using artificial pancake syrup in this vinaigrette. It has a different flavor and texture compared to real maple syrup, which can significantly alter the taste of your dressing. For the best results, stick with pure maple syrup for that authentic sweetness and richness.

A small clear jar with maple balsamic vinaigrette. A spoon sits in the jar and a small green salad is behind it.

Storage Tips

Once prepared, I like to store this Maple Balsamic Vinaigrette in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for up to a week. If you refrigerate it, simply let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving. The ingredients may separate, so give it a good stir to recombine everything for a smooth and delicious dressing!

A white plate with Green Salad with Grapes, Gorgonzola and Pistachio.

Related Recipes

I love using this dressing on my Green Salad with Grapes, Gorgonzola and Pistachios, but it would taste amazing on any green salad!

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A white bowl with maple balsamic vinaigrette. A small green salad sits nearby as does a spoon with some drops of dressing on a marble table.

Maple Balsamic Vinaigrette

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This classic balsamic vinaigrette is sweetened with real maple syrup and is the perfect addition to your salad.

  • Total Time: 5 minutes
  • Yield: 4 tablespoons 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 teaspoons maple syrup
  • 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin Olive Oil
  • ⅛ teaspoon salt
  • ⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. COMBINE INGREDIENTS: Whisk together all ingredients in a bowl until thoroughly combined. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, re-whisking dressing before each use.
  • Author: Christine
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Dressing
  • Method: Handmade
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
  • Calories: 76
  • Sugar: 2.8 g
  • Sodium: 152.9 mg
  • Fat: 7 g
  • Carbohydrates: 3.2 g
  • Protein: 0 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg

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