Red Wine Vinaigrette Recipe: Your New Go-To Dressing for Everything!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4.8 from 2,500 fans)

📸 1100+ photo shares | ☀️ Updated December 2025

Oh, the humble salad dressing! So often overlooked, yet so crucial to transforming a simple bowl of greens into a vibrant, exciting culinary experience. Today, we’re diving into the absolute queen of dressings: the classic Red Wine Vinaigrette. Forget those store-bought bottles filled with who-knows-what; making your own Homemade Vinaigrette is a game-changer, incredibly simple, and infinitely more delicious.

This recipe isn’t just for salads, my friends. It’s a versatile flavor bomb that can elevate roasted vegetables, marinate chicken, or even add a bright zing to a pasta salad. With just a few pantry staples, you’ll whip up a batch of this zesty, perfectly balanced dressing that will become a staple in your kitchen. Get ready to impress yourself!

Why You’ll Love This Red Wine Vinaigrette

Quick & Easy

Seriously, 5 minutes is all you need. No cooking required, just a whisk and a bowl (or a jar!).

Fresh & Flavorful

The bright tang of red wine vinegar perfectly complements the rich olive oil, with a hint of garlic and Dijon mustard adding depth. It’s so much better than anything from a bottle!

Incredibly Versatile

Beyond salads, this Red Wine Vinaigrette is fantastic as a marinade, drizzled over grilled vegetables, or even tossed with grains. The possibilities are endless!

Pantry Staples

You likely have all the ingredients on hand already, making it an ideal last-minute addition to any meal.

What You’ll Need

This is where the magic happens with minimal effort!

• 1/2 cup good quality extra virgin olive oil: The backbone of any great vinaigrette.
• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar: Look for one with good acidity and flavor.
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: This is key for emulsification and adds a subtle tang.
• 1 clove garlic, minced: Fresh is best, but 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder works in a pinch.
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt: To enhance all the flavors.
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: For a little kick.
• Optional: 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup: For a touch of sweetness to balance the acidity.
• Optional: 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh herbs: Parsley, oregano, or thyme work beautifully.

How to Make Red Wine Vinaigrette Recipe

 

 

Prepare to be amazed by the simplicity and speed of creating your own delicious dressing!

1. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a small bowl or a jar with a tight-fitting lid, combine the red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. If using, add the honey or maple syrup.
2. Whisk or Shake: Slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil while whisking constantly. If using a jar, cover tightly and shake vigorously until the mixture is fully emulsified (this means the oil and vinegar are completely blended and no longer separated). The Homemade Vinaigrette should look thick and creamy.
3. Taste & Adjust: Give your Red Wine Vinaigrette a taste. Adjust seasoning as needed – you might want a little more salt, pepper, or a touch more vinegar for extra zing. If adding fresh herbs, stir them in now.
4. Serve & Store: Use immediately, or transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to a week. Give it a good shake or whisk before each use as it may separate slightly.

Fun Twists & Serving Ideas

This classic dressing is just the beginning! Get creative with these ideas:

• Herby Freshness: Stir in a tablespoon of finely chopped fresh oregano, basil, chives, or a mix of Italian herbs for an aromatic boost.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for those who love a bit of heat.
• Citrus Zest: A teaspoon of lemon or orange zest can add another layer of bright flavor.
• Sweet & Tangy: Experiment with different sweeteners like agave nectar or brown sugar to find your perfect balance.
• Serving Suggestions:
  • Toss with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and feta cheese.
  • Drizzle over roasted asparagus, broccoli, or bell peppers.
  • Use as a marinade for chicken, fish, or firm tofu before grilling or baking.
  • Toss with warm pasta, chickpeas, and chopped vegetables for a light lunch.
  • Serve alongside a charcuterie board with crusty bread for dipping.

What Our Fans Are Saying!

We absolutely love hearing from you! Here’s what some of our amazing community members have to say about this Red Wine Vinaigrette:

• Maya S. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “This recipe is a lifesaver! I used to buy bottled dressing, but this is so much fresher and tastes incredible. It takes literally 5 minutes and makes my salads gourmet. Thank you!”
• David R. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “My wife always raves about my vinaigrette now! The Dijon mustard really makes it emulsify perfectly. I added a little honey and fresh oregano, and it was a hit with our grilled chicken. A true keeper!”
• Chloe P. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Simple, elegant, and packed with flavor. I love that I can control the ingredients and avoid all the junk in store-bought options. This Homemade Vinaigrette is now my go-to for everything from salads to marinating veggies.”

Red Wine Vinaigrette FAQs

How long does red wine vinaigrette last?

Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, it will last for up to 1 week. Give it a good shake before each use as the oil and vinegar may separate.

Can I use different types of vinegar?

Absolutely! While red wine vinegar gives it the classic flavor, you can experiment with white wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar, or even balsamic vinegar for different flavor profiles.

Why is my vinaigrette not emulsifying?

The key to a good emulsion is slowly adding the oil while whisking vigorously, or shaking the jar extremely well. The Dijon mustard acts as an emulsifier, helping the oil and vinegar stay combined. If it separates, just whisk or shake again!

Is this vinaigrette healthy?

Yes, compared to many store-bought options, this homemade version is much healthier as it contains no artificial ingredients, added sugars (unless you choose to add them), or preservatives. It’s primarily healthy fats from olive oil and beneficial acids from vinegar.

Recipe Note:

Embrace the joy of homemade! This Red Wine Vinaigrette is a testament to how simple ingredients can create truly extraordinary flavor. Don’t be afraid to adjust the ratios to your personal taste – more vinegar for tang, more oil for richness, or a touch of sweetness to balance. Enjoy!