Homemade Honey Mustard Dressing

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There’s something incredibly satisfying about making your own salad dressing from scratch. I used to rely on store-bought bottles until I realized how simple and rewarding it is to whip up a batch of my favorite Honey Mustard Dressing at home. Not only is it fresher and more flavorful, but I also get to control the sweetness, tang, and creaminess exactly how I like it.

This dressing is a staple in my kitchen. It takes just minutes to make and instantly transforms even the simplest salad into something crave-worthy. I love drizzling it over a fresh mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers, or using it as a dipping sauce for roasted veggies or chicken tenders. Once you try this, you’ll never go back to the bottle.

Why You’ll Love This Honey Mustard Dressing

It’s creamy, tangy, and just the right amount of sweet. This honey mustard dressing is incredibly versatile, working as a salad topper, sandwich spread, or dipping sauce. Plus, it’s made with simple pantry staples—no preservatives or additives here.

What Type of Mustard Should I Use?

I personally love using Dijon mustard for its smooth texture and bold flavor, but you can experiment with whole grain mustard if you’re looking for a more rustic, hearty twist. Yellow mustard also works in a pinch and gives a more classic, nostalgic taste.

Options for Substitutions

• No Dijon? Use yellow mustard or whole grain.
• Vegan? Swap honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.
• Cutting Calories? Use low-fat Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter version.
• Spicy Kick? Add a pinch of cayenne or a splash of hot sauce.

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Ingredients for this Homemade Honey Mustard Dressing

• Dijon Mustard: This is the base flavor—sharp, slightly spicy, and smooth.
• Honey: Balances the tanginess of the mustard with natural sweetness.
• Mayonnaise: Adds creaminess and richness that rounds out the acidity.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Lends a bit of brightness and tang to balance the sweetness.
• Olive Oil: Helps emulsify the dressing and adds a subtle fruity note.
• Garlic Powder: A small amount goes a long way to add warmth and depth.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning—enhances and balances the overall taste.

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Step 1: Gather All Ingredients

Measure out each ingredient and have them ready on your counter. This dressing comes together quickly, so being prepared makes a big difference.

Step 2: Combine the Base Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl or jar, add 1/4 cup Dijon mustard, 1/4 cup honey, and 1/4 cup mayonnaise. Stir or whisk them together until fully combined.

Step 3: Add Vinegar and Seasoning

Pour in 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar. Add 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, a pinch of salt, and a dash of freshly ground black pepper. Stir to blend evenly.

Step 4: Slowly Mix in the Olive Oil

While whisking, slowly drizzle in 2 tablespoons of olive oil. This step helps emulsify the dressing, giving it a smooth, creamy consistency.

Step 5: Taste and Adjust

Give your dressing a taste. Too tangy? Add a bit more honey. Want more kick? Add a touch more mustard or a splash of vinegar. Season with additional salt or pepper as needed.

Step 6: Store or Serve

Pour the finished dressing into a jar or airtight container. You can use it immediately or refrigerate for up to 1 week. Shake well before each use.

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How Long to Prepare the Homemade Honey Mustard Dressing

Making this dressing is incredibly quick. From start to finish, you’ll only need about 5 to 7 minutes.

• Prep Time: This includes measuring out all ingredients and gathering tools. With a bit of efficiency, this takes just 3 minutes.
• Mixing Time: Whisking everything together, especially if you’re slowly adding the olive oil to emulsify, takes another 2 to 4 minutes.

It’s the kind of recipe that delivers big flavor with minimal effort.

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Tips for Perfect Honey Mustard Dressing

• Use room temperature ingredients to help the oil emulsify more easily.
• Whisk vigorously or use a small blender if you want a super smooth texture.
• Let it chill for 30 minutes after making—it allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
• Adjust to your preference—add more honey for sweetness, or more vinegar for tang.
• Use good-quality Dijon and olive oil—since the recipe is so simple, each ingredient shines.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Skipping the emulsification step can result in a watery or separated dressing.
• Overpowering with vinegar—too much tang can throw off the balance.
• Using cold ingredients—this makes emulsifying harder.
• Not tasting as you go—adjusting seasoning is crucial.
• Storing in a non-sealed container—the dressing can absorb fridge odors or lose freshness.

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What to Serve With Homemade Honey Mustard Dressing?

1. Fresh Garden Salad

The obvious and most popular use—drizzle it over mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and carrots.

2. Chicken Tenders

This dressing doubles as a delicious dipping sauce for crispy or grilled chicken tenders.

3. Roasted Vegetables

Toss roasted Brussels sprouts, carrots, or sweet potatoes with this dressing for a sweet-savory kick.

4. Sandwich Spread

Use it in place of mayo on turkey or grilled chicken sandwiches for a tangy twist.

5. Grilled Salmon or Chicken

Drizzle over warm proteins for a creamy finish that complements the natural flavors.

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Storage Instructions

This dressing keeps well in the fridge for up to 7 days. Store it in a sealed glass jar or airtight container. Shake well before each use, as natural separation may occur. Avoid freezing—due to the mayo and mustard, the texture won’t hold up after thawing. For best results, use a clean spoon each time to avoid contamination.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per 2-tablespoon serving (approximate):

• Calories: 140
• Total Fat: 11g
• Saturated Fat: 1.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 5mg
• Sodium: 170mg
• Carbohydrates: 9g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 8g
• Protein: 0g

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does homemade honey mustard dressing last?

It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to a week if stored in an airtight container.

Can I make this dressing vegan?

Yes! Simply replace the honey with maple syrup or agave nectar and ensure your mayo is plant-based.

Is it gluten-free?

Most Dijon mustards and vinegars are gluten-free, but always check labels to be sure.

Can I use yellow mustard instead?

Yes, yellow mustard will give it a milder, more classic flavor profile.

How can I thicken my dressing if it’s too thin?

Add a bit more mayonnaise or reduce the amount of vinegar and oil to get a thicker consistency.

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Conclusion

Homemade Honey Mustard Dressing is one of those little kitchen wins that makes a big impact. It’s fast, flexible, and full of vibrant flavor—perfect for salads, sandwiches, or anything that needs a boost of sweet and tangy goodness. Once you try it, you’ll wonder why you ever bought the bottled stuff. Make a batch today and keep it on hand for easy meals all week long.

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