If you’re seeking a special touch for your salad, why not try a Sherry Vinaigrette? This dressing combines the rich, nutty flavor of sherry vinegar, which is derived from sherry wine.
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Sherry vinaigrette recipe
Sherry vinaigrette epitomizes the essence of Spanish culinary finesse in a bottle. This exquisite dressing combines the complex flavors of sherry vinegar with the smoothness of olive oil.
The sherry vinegar is made from fermented wine and is known for its sweet and complex flavors, making it a popular choice in various Mediterranean dishes.

When compared to other vinaigrettes, sherry wine vinaigrette stands out for its depth and complexity. Here’s how it measures up:
- Balsamic vinaigrette offers sweetness and acidity, but lacks the nutty complexity of sherry
- Red wine vinaigrette provides a robust flavor, but misses the subtle oxidative notes characteristic of sherry
- Champagne vinaigrette delivers lightness and brightness, but falls short in terms of depth
The distinction lies not only in the flavor profile but also in the mouthfeel. Sherry vinaigrette coats the palate with a silky texture, leaving a lingering complexity that invites the diner to savor each bite.
This versatile sherry vinaigrette is a perfect match for numerous salads. It beautifully complements arugula with Manchego, spinach with almonds, mixed greens with prosciutto, and roasted pepper salad.
Beyond salads, it excels as a marinade. It tenderizes and flavors grilled chicken, helps roasted vegetables caramelize, and enhances the natural taste of seafood and fish dishes. It’s also excellent drizzled over roasted or grilled vegetables and green asparagus.
The vinaigrette also functions as a superb sauce or finishing touch. You can drizzle it over grilled meats, fish, or avocado, or use it as a dip for bread. In Spanish cuisine, it brightens up tapas like boquerones (marinated anchovies), an ensalada mixta, or pan con tomate.
Here’s how to make the sherry vinaigrette:

Best sherry vinaigrette
Nutrition
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup sherry vinegar
- 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey or simple syrup optional
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the sherry vinegar, Dijon mustard, and honey (if using).
- Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously until the dressing is well combined and emulsified.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Use immediately or store in the refrigerator for up to a week. Shake or stir before using.
Variations
From this recipe, you can make other versions of this sherry vinaigrette. Here’re some suggestions:
- Garlic Sherry Vinaigrette whisks in a minced clove of garlic.
- Herb Infusion adds chopped fresh thyme, parsley, or tarragon.
- Citrus Addition replaces part of the vinegar with orange or lemon juice.

- Sherry Maple Vinaigrette swaps honey/simple syrup for maple syrup.
- Spicy Version adds a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Creamy Sherry Vinaigrette blends in a spoonful of Greek yogurt or mayo.
- Cheesy Version incorporates a small amount of aged cheese, such as Manchego, for richness.