Looking to elevate your everyday salads with something simple yet flavorful? The Jamie Oliver French Salad Dressing is the answer. It’s zesty, creamy, and comes together in just a few minutes. Made with pantry staples and perfect for green salads, this dressing offers a beautiful balance of acidity and richness that coats leafy greens effortlessly.

This guide walks you through every step to recreate Jamie’s classic vinaigrette at home.

What is Jamie Oliver’s French Salad Dressing?

Jamie Oliver’s French Salad Dressing is a classic vinaigrette made using olive oil, vinegar, mustard, garlic, and seasoning. It’s light but flavorful, with a tangy finish that complements fresh greens. This dressing is known for its simplicity, relying on quality ingredients and a perfect emulsified texture.

Other Popular Recipes

Why You Should Try This Recipe

Quick and easy – Takes less than 5 minutes from start to finish.
No fancy tools required – Shake it in a jar or whisk in a bowl.
Customizable flavor – Adjust the tanginess and sweetness to your preference.
Healthy choice – Made with olive oil and no preservatives.
Works with any salad – Versatile enough for green salads, pasta salads, or grilled veggies.
Keeps well – Stores easily in the fridge for days.

Ingredients Needed to Make Jamie Oliver’s French Salad Dressing

Each ingredient plays a role in creating a well-balanced, vibrant dressing:

6 tbsp extra virgin olive oil – The base that adds smoothness and richness.
2 tbsp red wine vinegar (or white wine vinegar) – Gives the dressing its signature tang.
1 tsp Dijon mustard – Adds a creamy texture and sharp bite.
1 garlic clove, minced – Brings a bold, aromatic kick.
Salt and black pepper, to taste – Essential for seasoning and balance.
Optional: ½ tsp honey – For those who like a slightly sweeter vinaigrette.

Equipment Needed

Small mixing bowl or glass jar with lid
Whisk or spoon (if mixing in bowl)
Measuring spoons
Garlic press or fine grater

Instructions to Make Jamie Oliver’s French Salad Dressing

Step 1: Combine the base ingredients

In a small bowl or jar, add the olive oil, vinegar, and Dijon mustard.

Step 2: Add garlic and seasoning

Stir in the minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. If using honey, add that here as well.

Step 3: Whisk or shake to emulsify

Whisk all ingredients vigorously until smooth and creamy. If using a jar, secure the lid and shake well for 30 seconds.

Step 4: Taste and adjust

Taste your dressing and adjust vinegar, salt, or honey to suit your preference.

Step 5: Use or store

Pour over your salad just before serving or refrigerate for later use.

What Goes Well With Jamie Oliver’s French Salad Dressing

Mixed leafy greens – Baby spinach, arugula, and romaine work beautifully.
Fresh tomato and cucumber salad – Adds zest to fresh, watery veggies.
Grilled vegetables – Balances smoky flavors with tang.
Cold pasta salads – Toss through cooked pasta for an instant upgrade.
Boiled eggs and avocado – Enhances creamy textures.
Roasted chicken – Great drizzle for chicken-based salads.
Cheese platters – A tangy contrast to rich cheeses like feta or goat cheese.

Expert Tips for Making the Best Jamie Oliver French Salad Dressing

Use fresh garlic for bold flavor – Avoid pre-minced garlic to keep the taste fresh.
Emulsify properly – A good whisk or shake ensures the dressing won’t separate quickly.
Balance acidity – Add a pinch of honey if the vinegar is too sharp.
Taste as you go – Small tweaks can greatly improve flavor.
Use quality olive oil – The better the oil, the better the dressing.
Chill before using – A short rest in the fridge helps the flavors meld.
Double the batch – Store extra for the week to save time.

Easy Variations of Jamie Oliver French Salad Dressing

Herb-infused – Add finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or tarragon.
Lemon twist – Replace vinegar with lemon juice for a citrusy note.
Creamy version – Add a spoonful of Greek yogurt or mayo.
Spicy kick – Stir in a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Shallot upgrade – Swap garlic with finely minced shallots for a milder flavor.
Maple Dijon – Replace honey with maple syrup for a more complex sweetness.

Best Practices to Store Jamie Oliver’s French Salad Dressing

Use a sealed jar – Keeps it fresh and prevents odor transfer.
Label with date – Helps track freshness.
Keep it in the fridge – Lasts 5–7 days when refrigerated.
Shake before use – Natural separation is normal; re-emulsify before pouring.
Avoid storing garlic long-term – For food safety, consume within 3–5 days if garlic is used.

Best Practices to Reheat Jamie Oliver’s French Salad Dressing

No reheating is needed as this is a cold, oil-based dressing. However:

If it solidifies in the fridge – Let it sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes.
Stir or shake well – Recombine the oil and vinegar before using.
Avoid microwaving – Direct heat can ruin the texture and flavor.

How Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s French Salad Dressing Healthier?

Reduce oil quantity – Use 4 tbsp instead of 6 for a lighter version.
Skip added sugar – Omit honey or sweeteners.
Add more vinegar – Increases flavor without extra calories.
Use garlic powder – A safer alternative for long-term storage.
Try flaxseed oil – Swap olive oil for a more omega-3-rich option.
Use lemon juice – A fresh alternative to vinegar.

Nutrition Value (per serving, approx. 2 tbsp)

Calories: 130
Fat: 14g
Carbohydrates: 1g
Sugar: 0.5g
Protein: 0g
Sodium: 120mg

FAQs

How do I make Jamie Oliver’s French dressing creamy without using cream?

To achieve a creamy texture without cream, the Dijon mustard acts as a natural emulsifier. When whisked vigorously with vinegar and olive oil, it binds the ingredients into a smooth, thick dressing.

Why is my French salad dressing separating after a few minutes?

Separation happens when the oil and vinegar haven’t fully emulsified. Whisking or shaking thoroughly is key. You can also add a touch of mustard or honey, which helps the mixture stay combined longer.

Can I prepare Jamie Oliver French salad dressing in advance?

Yes, you can make the dressing ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 5–7 days. Just give it a good shake or stir before each use, as natural separation is normal over time.

Do I need to mince the garlic or can I use garlic powder?

Freshly minced garlic offers a stronger, more vibrant flavor. However, if you prefer a milder taste or want a longer shelf life, garlic powder can be used as a substitute. Use about ⅛ tsp per clove.

Final Words

This Jamie Oliver French Salad Dressing proves that simple ingredients can make something extraordinary. With just a few pantry staples and a little whisking, you get a restaurant-style vinaigrette ready in minutes. Perfect for everyday salads or as a base to explore flavor variations, this dressing is a kitchen staple worth mastering.