If there’s one superpower you can add to your salad arsenal, it has to be this Fat-Free Dijon Salad Dressing. Tangy, beautifully balanced, and guilt-free, it’s my absolute go-to for making any bowl of greens sing with flavor. With its zesty mustard kick, touch of natural sweetness, and impressive creaminess (with not a drop of oil in sight), this recipe brings bold taste and luscious texture to the table. Whether you’re watching your calories or simply on the lookout for something lighter yet full of character, this dressing delivers every time.

Fat-Free Dijon Salad Dressing Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes this Fat-Free Dijon Salad Dressing truly special is its short and sweet ingredient list. Every component here packs big flavor — and each one plays a crucial role, from the zip of mustard to the mellow sweetness and touch of spice. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need (and why it all matters):

Dijon Mustard: This is the star of the show, lending that signature tang, creaminess, and depth.
Apple Cider Vinegar: For brightness and acidity, apple cider vinegar balances out the sweetness and truly wakes up your tastebuds.
Water: A splash goes a long way to thin out the dressing, making it pourable without any oil.
Honey or Maple Syrup: Offers natural sweetness and rounds out the sharpness of the vinegar and mustard; choose maple syrup to keep it vegan.
Garlic Powder: Provides a savory backbone you’ll appreciate in every drizzle.
Onion Powder: Adds subtle, aromatic complexity to the overall flavor.
Salt: Just a touch is enough to make all the other flavors pop.
Black Pepper: A finishing sprinkle adds gentle heat without overpowering the rest.

How to Make Fat-Free Dijon Salad Dressing

Step 1: Gather and Measure Ingredients

Start by collecting all your ingredients and measuring them out so you’re ready to roll. There’s something so satisfying about seeing all those little bowls lined up and knowing in five minutes you’ll have a vibrant dressing at the ready.

Step 2: Whisk Everything Together

In a small bowl or jar, combine the Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, water, honey or maple syrup, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk until the mixture is completely smooth and everything is well incorporated. If you prefer using a jar, just pop the lid on and give it a good shake — it’s practically effortless, and there’s no extra cleanup.

Step 3: Taste and Adjust

This quick taste-test step is where you make the dressing your own. Give it a little taste and decide if you’d like it sweeter, tangier, or need an extra pinch of salt. Need it a bit creamier? Blend in a spoonful of plain fat-free Greek yogurt for lusciousness without fat.

Step 4: Store Properly

Pour your Fat-Free Dijon Salad Dressing into an airtight container and tuck it into your refrigerator. Remember to shake or stir it before each use, just to make sure everything’s beautifully blended again.

How to Serve Fat-Free Dijon Salad Dressing

Garnishes

Nothing beats the visual and flavor boost of a nice garnish. Try scattering a handful of chopped fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or dill over your dressed salad. Want a little crunch? Sprinkle on toasted seeds or crispy chickpeas for a lovely contrast.

Side Dishes

This dressing is a natural fit for all your leafy favorites, but it does wonders in grain bowls, over steamed veggies, or even as a marinade for tofu or chicken. Pair your Fat-Free Dijon Salad Dressing with roasted sweet potatoes or a crisp, tangy slaw for a full plate that’s every bit as satisfying as it is nutritious.

Creative Ways to Present

Fat-Free Dijon Salad Dressing isn’t just for leafy salads! Drizzle it over a platter of colorful heirloom tomatoes, spoon it onto grilled corn, or serve as a dipping sauce for crudité. For a fun twist, fill tiny mason jars for individual servings at your next outdoor picnic.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep your dressing fresh and tasty, store it in a glass jar or airtight container in the refrigerator. It’ll stay vibrant for about a week. Always give it a quick shake or stir before serving, as natural separation may occur.

Freezing

Freezing isn’t the best option for this Fat-Free Dijon Salad Dressing, as the texture and flavor can change once thawed. Since it only takes five minutes to whip up, it’s best enjoyed freshly made or from the fridge within the week.

Reheating

No need to reheat this dressing — it’s meant to be served cold or at room temperature. If it thickens too much in the fridge, just let it sit out for a few minutes or add a splash of water and stir until you reach your desired consistency.

FAQs

Can I make Fat-Free Dijon Salad Dressing spicy?

Absolutely! If you love a little heat, stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to bring a gentle, spicy kick to your dressing.

What’s the best substitute for honey or maple syrup?

If neither honey nor maple syrup are on hand, agave nectar works beautifully, or use a little date syrup if you want to keep it refined sugar-free and vegan-friendly.

Can I use regular yellow mustard instead of Dijon?

You can, but Dijon mustard offers a richer depth and a smoother, more complex flavor. Yellow mustard will result in a slightly sharper, less creamy profile, but it’ll still work in a pinch!

How do I thicken the dressing without adding fat?

If you’d like a thicker dressing, try blending in a tablespoon of fat-free Greek yogurt or even a small spoonful of silken tofu. Either option will add creamy body without upping the fat content.

Is Fat-Free Dijon Salad Dressing gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to double-check your Dijon mustard and vinegar to confirm there are no hidden gluten-containing ingredients.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a way to add serious zesty, creamy flavor to your salads without adding fat, this Fat-Free Dijon Salad Dressing is sure to win you over. Give it a try this week and see how it transforms everything from simple greens to vibrant veggie bowls — you might just find it becomes your go-to, too!

Fat-Free Dijon Salad Dressing Recipe

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4.6 from 30 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 5 minutes
Yield: 4 servings (about 2 tablespoons each) 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Fat-Free Dijon Salad Dressing is a delicious and healthy alternative to store-bought dressings. Made with simple ingredients, it’s quick to prepare and perfect for drizzling over your favorite salads.

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients:

1/4 cup Dijon mustard
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons water
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon black pepper

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Instructions

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, water, honey, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Store in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to one week.
Shake or stir before each use.

Notes

For a slightly creamier texture, blend with 1 tablespoon plain fat-free Greek yogurt.
Adjust sweetness to taste by adding more or less honey or maple syrup.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Dressing
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: American