The Ultimate 3-Ingredient Salad Dressing Recipe (So Easy, Even a 5-Year-Old Can Make It!)
As the sun shines brightly and the days grow longer, there's nothing quite like a fresh salad to celebrate the season. But what elevates a simple salad to a culinary delight? The answer lies in the dressing! Store-bought options often fall flat, lacking the vibrant flavors and freshness that homemade dressings can offer. If you think making your own dressing is complicated, think again! Food writer Myo Quinn has been using the same simple salad dressing for over 20 years, and even her 5-year-old can whip it up effortlessly. This dressing is flavorful, versatile, and comes together in just minutes using only three key ingredients: Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and olive oil.
Why Make Your Own Salad Dressing?
Myo passionately believes that homemade salad dressings win over store-bought ones every time. Here’s why:
- Better Taste – Fresh ingredients enhance flavors.
- More Affordable – No need to keep buying expensive bottled dressings.
- Super Quick – Ready in under five minutes!
Plus, this dressing is so easy that even her young kids make it regularly—just a small bowl, a fork, and a few staple ingredients are all you need.
The Three Ingredients (And Why They Work)
1. Dijon Mustard – The Secret to Creamy Dressings
Many people underestimate Dijon mustard in salad dressings, but it plays a crucial role as an emulsifier. This simply means it helps oil and acid mix together, preventing the dreaded separation. The result? A smooth, creamy dressing. (Don't swap it for yellow mustard… keep that for your hot dogs!)
2. Lemon Juice – The Tangy Brightener
Fresh lemon juice provides vibrant acidity that balances the richness of the olive oil. No lemons? Swap in red wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar, or white wine vinegar.
3. Olive Oil – The Smooth Blender
Olive oil adds richness while rounding out flavors. Depending on your preference, adjust the amount you use to control the dressing’s consistency.
The Easiest Salad Dressing Recipe
Ingredients
- ½ small lemon, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- ¼ to ⅓ cup olive oil
- 1 clove garlic (optional but highly recommended)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and Dijon mustard using a fork.
- Slowly drizzle in olive oil, whisking constantly until the dressing becomes golden and creamy.
- Season with salt and black pepper—start with ¼ teaspoon salt and ⅛ teaspoon black pepper, then adjust to taste.
- (Optional) Add garlic: Lightly crush a garlic clove, peel it, and drop it into the dressing. Let it sit to infuse flavors, then remove before serving. (Pro tip: Save the garlic for cooking later!)
🍋 Too tart? Add more olive oil.
🧄 Want more depth? Include garlic.
👩🍳 Prefer a little sweetness? Add a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup.
Fun Twists & Variations
The beauty of this dressing is its ability to be customized. Try these variations:
- 🥗 Sweeter Dressing – Stir in 1 teaspoon honey, agave, or maple syrup.
- 🌿 Herb-infused – Add ½ teaspoon dried oregano, thyme, or Italian seasoning. Fresh herbs work, too!
- 🔥 Spicy Kick – Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- ✨ Ultra-Creamy Option – Replace half the olive oil with mayo, sour cream, or Greek yogurt.
- 🥣 Buttermilk Ranch-Style – Stir in ¼ cup full-fat buttermilk and 2 tablespoons finely chopped dill.
- 🌰 Nutty Tahini Dressing – Whisk in 2 tablespoons tahini and 1 tablespoon honey.
Final Thoughts
This 3-ingredient salad dressing isn’t just easy—it’s a staple you’ll want to make again and again. It’s a go-to recipe, whether you're making a quick side salad or need a fresh, tangy drizzle for roasted vegetables, grain bowls, or even sandwiches. Forget bottled dressings—this homemade option beats them all!
👩🍳 Ready to give it a try? Experiment with variations and make it your own. Your salads will thank you! 🥗🎉
