Mary Berry French Salad Dressing is a simple, classic dressing that adds fresh flavor to almost any salad. It has a smooth texture with a perfect balance of tangy vinegar, mild mustard, and rich olive oil. This easy homemade dressing takes only a few minutes to prepare and requires no cooking. With a preparation time of about 5 minutes, it is an excellent choice for quick lunches, side salads, and everyday meals.
Ingredients
For the French Salad Dressing
- 6 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp caster sugar
- ¼ tsp fine salt
- ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
How to Make Mary Berry French Salad Dressing
- Prepare the ingredients: Measure all ingredients accurately. Having everything ready helps create a smooth and balanced dressing.
- Add the vinegar and mustard: Place the white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, caster sugar, salt, and black pepper into a small bowl or jug.
- Whisk together: Whisk the mixture until the sugar and salt dissolve completely and the ingredients are evenly combined.
- Add the olive oil: Slowly pour in the olive oil while whisking continuously. This helps emulsify the dressing and creates a smooth texture.
- Taste and adjust: Taste the dressing and adjust seasoning if needed. Add a little more vinegar for extra sharpness or a touch more sugar for a milder flavor.
- Serve: Drizzle over fresh salad leaves and toss gently before serving.

Tips for the Best French Salad Dressing
How do I stop the dressing from separating?
Whisk continuously while slowly adding the oil. Dijon mustard also helps keep the dressing emulsified.
Which vinegar works best?
White wine vinegar gives a classic French flavor, but red wine vinegar can also be used.
Can I make the dressing sweeter?
Yes. Add an extra pinch of caster sugar or a small drizzle of honey.
How can I make it more flavorful?
Add finely chopped fresh herbs such as parsley, chives, or tarragon.
Can I use a jar instead of whisking?
Yes. Place all ingredients into a jar with a tight lid and shake vigorously until combined.
Serving Suggestions
- Drizzle over mixed green salads.
- Serve with tomato and cucumber salads.
- Use as a dressing for potato salad.
- Spoon over steamed vegetables.
- Serve alongside grilled chicken or fish.
- Use as a light marinade for vegetables.
Storage
Room Temperature
The dressing can stand at room temperature for up to 2 hours before serving.
Refrigerator
Store in a sealed jar or airtight container for up to 1 week. Shake well before each use.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended, as the texture and emulsion may separate permanently when thawed.
Nutrition
- Calories: 135 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Sodium: 95mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary depending on ingredients used.
FAQs
Can I make French salad dressing ahead of time?
Yes, it can be prepared several days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Shake or whisk before serving.
Why does my dressing separate?
Oil and vinegar naturally separate over time. Simply shake or whisk again before using.
Can I use apple cider vinegar instead?
Yes, apple cider vinegar can be substituted, although it will slightly change the flavor profile.
Is French salad dressing gluten free?
Most homemade versions are naturally gluten free, but always check ingredient labels if required.
Mary Berry French Salad Dressing Recipe
Course: CondimentCuisine: FrenchDifficulty: Easy6
servings5
minutes5
minutes135
kcalA quick and classic French salad dressing made with olive oil, white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, and simple seasonings. Perfect for green salads and everyday meals.
Ingredients
6 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
2 tbsp white wine vinegar
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp caster sugar
1/4 tsp fine salt
1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
Directions
- Measure all ingredients accurately.
- Place vinegar, mustard, sugar, salt, and pepper into a bowl.
- Whisk until fully blended and the sugar dissolves.
- Slowly pour in olive oil while whisking continuously.
- Continue whisking until the dressing becomes smooth and emulsified.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate until required.
Notes
- Use good-quality olive oil for the best flavor.
- Shake well before serving if stored.
- Add fresh herbs for extra flavor variation.
