Honey Mustard Dressing: Perfect for Every Dish

A bowl of honey dijon mustard dressing

Honey mustard dressing is a popular salad dressing known for its sweet and tangy flavor, combining the richness of honey with the sharpness of mustard. This golden elixir captivates taste buds with its perfect balance of flavors, making it a staple in kitchens worldwide.

Honey mustard dressing recipe

Honey mustard dressing requires a careful balance of ingredients to achieve its signature flavor. Here is how to make the honey mustard dressing:

A bowl of honey dijon mustard dressing

Honey mustard dressing

A creamy, sweet-tangy condiment that combines the sweetness of honey with the pungent kick of mustard. It's versatile and popular for salads, as a dipping sauce, or as a spread.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Course Condiment
Cuisine American
Servings 8
Calories 120 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • In a bowl, whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar until smooth.
  • Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously until the dressing is well combined and emulsified.
  • Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Serve or store it in the fridge

Nutrition

Calories: 120kcal
Keyword healthy salad dressing, homemade condiment, homemade salad dressing, honey mustard dressing, olive oil dressing
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Variations

1. Creamy Version

For a richer, more indulgent option, creamy honey mustard incorporates additional emulsifiers. I’ve found success with:

  • Adding Greek yogurt or sour cream
  • Incorporating 1 egg yolk ensures it’s pasteurized for safety
  • Using mayonnaise as a base instead of oil

The resulting dressing boasts a velvety texture perfect for dipping or coating heartier salads.

Homemade honey mustard dressing

2. Spicy Honey Mustard Dressing

To add a kick to your dressing, consider these additions:

  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 minced chipotle pepper in adobo sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sriracha sauce

Spicy variations complement grilled meats and robust salads beautifully.

3. Sweet and Tangy Variations

For those with a sweet tooth, consider these modifications:

  • Add a tablespoon of orange marmalade for citrusy notes
  • Incorporate finely grated apple for natural sweetness and texture

These sweeter versions shine when paired with fruit-based salads or as a glaze for poultry.

4. Dietary Variations

a. Vegan Honey Mustard Options

– Replace honey with:

  • Agave nectar
  • Maple syrup
  • Date syrup

– For creamy version, use plant-based milk or aquafaba for creaminess in lieu of dairy

b. Low-Sugar Variations

For those monitoring their sugar intake, low-sugar honey mustard can be achieved through creative substitutions:

  • Use sugar-free honey alternatives like:
    1. Monk fruit sweetener
    2. Stevia-based honey substitutes
    3. Erythritol-based syrups
  • Increase the mustard and vinegar ratios slightly to maintain flavor intensity
  • Add a pinch of salt to enhance perceived sweetness

How to use

1. As a Salad Dressing

Honey mustard dressing elevates a wide array of salads. The dressing’s versatility allows it to complement both light and hearty salads with equal finesse. Some of my favorite combinations include:

  • Mixed greens with grilled chicken, apples, and walnuts
  • Spinach salad with strawberries, goat cheese, and pecans
  • Kale and quinoa salad with roasted sweet potatoes and cranberries

2. As a Dipping Sauce

As a dipping sauce, honey mustard shines alongside various appetizers and snacks:

  • Crispy chicken tenders or nuggets
  • Fresh vegetable crudités
  • Soft pretzels or breadsticks
  • Fried zucchini or eggplant strips

3. As a Marinade

Honey mustard marinade tenderizes and flavors meats effectively. For best results:

  1. Increase the vinegar content for better penetration
  2. Add minced garlic and herbs for depth
  3. Marinate proteins for 2-8 hours, depending on their size

This application works wonders on chicken, pork, and even firm fish like salmon.

4. In Sandwiches and Wraps

Honey mustard serves as an excellent spread in sandwiches and wraps. My go-to combinations include:

  • Turkey, bacon, and avocado wrap
  • Grilled vegetable and hummus sandwich
  • Chicken, apple, and brie panini

The dressing adds moisture and a flavor boost to any handheld creation.

5. Glazes for Meats and Vegetables

As a glaze, honey mustard dressing creates a caramelized, flavorful exterior on:

  • Roasted chicken or turkey
  • Grilled pork chops
  • Baked salmon fillets
  • Roasted root vegetables

To use as a glaze, apply the dressing during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking, allowing it to caramelize without burning.

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