Provençal mustard dressing is a bright and flavorful French‑style vinaigrette made with Dijon mustard, lemon juice, olive oil, and a touch of classic Provençal herbs. This dressing offers a vibrant, tangy and aromatic finish that suits salads, vegetables and lighter mains beautifully. It brings a Mediterranean note that lifts the simplest ingredients without overpowering them.
How to Use and Store Provençal Mustard Dressing
This versatile dressing is incredibly easy to use. Toss it with a fresh salad of mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers and red onion for a quick, refreshing side. It also works well with lighter proteins such as steamed fish or chicken, adding a tangy, herby flavor that complements rather than competes.
You can make this dressing ahead of time and store it in a tightly-sealed container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Give it a good shake or whisk before using, as oil and lemon juice naturally separate.
Tips, Variations & My Own Go‑To
I often make different salad dressings depending on the meal, and when I’m serving something French-inspired, this Provençal mustard dressing is my go‑to. It’s simple, flexible and can easily be adapted. For example, I sometimes replace the lemon juice with white wine vinegar for a sharper acidity, or swap the olive oil for cold‑pressed rapeseed oil (rypsiöljy) for a milder, nutty flavor.
There are many ways to enjoy this dressing. Try it with the Easy Side Salad or drizzle it over roasted vegetables. It also works well as a dressing for mixed greens served alongside a heartier main like the Rustic French Chicken Casserole, where its bright, tangy flavor provides a fresh contrast to the rich, savory casserole.
This dressing is ideal for both everyday meals and special occasions. It’s basic in its makeup but elegant in its effect — transforming even the most humble salad into something wonderfully French. Whether you’re tossing it with mixed greens or elevating fresh vegetables or light mains, it brings a touch of Provençal sophistication to your table with minimal effort.
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Simple Provençal Mustard Salad Dressing
Ingredients
- 3 tbsp lemon juice
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp sugar
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 small clove garlic finely chopped (optional)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 6 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Provençal herbs Herbes de Provence
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix the lemon juice, salt, sugar, and black pepper.
- Add the finely chopped garlic, if using.
- Whisk in the Dijon mustard, then gradually add the olive oil while whisking until the dressing emulsifies.
- Stir in the Provençal herbs.
- Toss with salad just before serving.
- The dressing keeps well in a tightly sealed container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Shake or whisk well before using.
