Red Wine Vinaigrette
This Red Wine Vinaigrette is a light and flavorful addition to salads, roasted veggies, or even as a marinade for grilled chicken or fish.
With just a handful of simple ingredients, it comes together in minutes, and it’s free from unnecessary preservatives or added sugars. Plus, it’s easily customizable—whether you want a touch of sweetness, an herby boost, or a creamy variation, there’s a way to make it your own. Check my notes section below for variation details!
I love making my own salad dressings because it gives me total control over what goes in—and just as importantly, what stays out. No added sugars, no excess sodium, no mystery ingredients, no preservatives… just simple, wholesome pantry staples that taste even better than store-bought. Plus, you can tweak each one to match your mood—zippy and tangy, creamy and herby, or sweet with a hint of citrus.
If you’re into homemade dressings like I am, definitely check out a few of my other favorites: Creamy Tahini Dressing, Greek Yogurt Ranch, Green Goddess, and Honey Mustard Vinaigrette. They’re quick to make and elevate any salad, grain bowl, or roasted veggie plate.
Drizzle it over my Mediterranean-Inspired Grilled Romaine Salad!
Red Wine Vinaigrette
Ingredients
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder, or 1 garlic clove, finely minced
- ¼-½ teaspoon kosher salt, adjust to taste
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine all the ingredients and whisk vigorously until everything is fully blended. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Use immediately or store in the fridge for up to 5 days (see notes on storage).
Notes
• You can store in the fridge for up to 5 days in a sealed container. Because olive oil solidifies when chilled, let the vinaigrette sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before using. If you’re in a hurry, pop the jar in a bowl of warm water for a few minutes or give it a good shake to help loosen it up. Taste Variations:
• Sweet Twist: Add ½ to 1 teaspoon of honey or maple syrup to add a subtle sweetness.
• Herb Boost: Stir in 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, basil, or Italian seasoning for extra depth.
• Mustard Option: Add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to give it a creamy, tangy kick.
• Add Creaminess: Blend in a tablespoon of plain Greek yogurt or light mayo for a creamy version.
