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Preparations and dishes

What Is Vinaigrette?

Vinaigrette: A dressing of oil and an acid, such as lemon juice or vinegar, seasoned with salt and often mustard or herbs.

In the kitchen

A common starting ratio is about three parts oil to one part acid, but lemon juice is gentle enough that many cooks use closer to two to one. A little mustard helps the dressing hold together longer.

Season the acid with salt first so it dissolves, then whisk in the oil in a slow stream. Taste it on a leaf of whatever you are dressing, since a strong vinaigrette tastes milder once it coats food.

See it in our recipes

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