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Umami Dijon Salad Dressing

  • josianebou
  • May 4
  • 3 min read

A bold and flavorful Dijon salad dressing with a perfect balance of tangy-sweet notes and rich umami from nutritional yeast. Vegan, easy to make, and delicious on any salad.



Apple and cinnamon scones

Tangy-Sweet Dijon Salad Dressing (Vegan, Easy & Flavorful)

Looking for a bold, homemade salad dressing that delivers flavor and nutrition? This Dijon salad dressing hits all the right notes—tangy, sweet, and packed with umami thanks to nutritional yeast. It’s an easy, vegan salad dressing recipe you can whip up in minutes, using simple pantry staples.


Whether you're dressing a crisp kale salad, drizzling it over roasted veggies, or using it as a marinade, this healthy Dijon vinaigrette is incredibly versatile and absolutely delicious. Keep reading to learn how to make it, why it works, and how to customize it to your taste.



summer dijon salad dressing

Why You'll Love This Dijon Salad Dressing

There are hundreds of salad dressing recipes out there, but this one stands out for its bold flavor and simplicity. Here’s why this Dijon dressing recipe deserves a spot in your regular rotation:

  • Tangy-sweet balance from balsamic vinegar and maple syrup

  • Umami depth from nutritional yeast

  • Creamy texture without dairy

  • Quick and easy – takes just 5 minutes

  • Vegan, gluten-free, and customizable

If you're trying to eat more greens or level up your salad game, a great dressing can make all the difference. This one doesn’t just coat your salad—it elevates it.


What Is Dijon Salad Dressing?

Dijon salad dressing is a vinaigrette-style dressing made with Dijon mustard, which adds a sharp, slightly spicy tang. Unlike traditional dressings that rely on eggs or dairy for richness, this version uses nutritional yeast to add a creamy, cheesy, umami kick—100% vegan-friendly.

The result is a silky, flavorful dressing that clings to leaves, adds depth to simple veggies, and even doubles as a dip or sauce for bowls and grains.

fresh spring greens with radish

Tips for Success

  • Use high-quality olive oil and balsamic vinegar – These are your flavor base.

  • Add garlic – A crushed clove or a pinch of garlic powder can add even more depth.

  • Shake in a jar – Makes mixing easier and stores well in the fridge.


Ways to Use Dijon Salad Dressing

Don’t limit yourself to leafy greens—this dressing is super versatile. Here are a few creative uses:

  • Salads: Perfect on spinach, kale, arugula, or a mixed green salad.

  • Grain bowls: Drizzle over quinoa, farro, or couscous with roasted veggies.

  • Roasted veggies: Try it on roasted Brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, or carrots.

  • Marinade: Use it to marinate tofu, tempeh, or even grilled veggies.

  • Dip: Thick enough to use as a dip for raw veggies or crackers.


Customize It Your Way

Want to tweak the recipe to suit your preferences or diet? Here are some easy modifications:

Swap This

For This

Effect

Maple syrup

Agave or honey

Different sweetness profiles

Balsamic vinegar

Apple cider vinegar

Brighter, sharper flavor

Nutritional yeast

Omit (or sub vegan parm)

Less umami, lighter flavor

Olive oil

Avocado oil or grapeseed oil

Neutral flavor, still creamy

the best dijon dressing

How to Store Homemade Salad Dressing

This Dijon dressing stores beautifully in the fridge.

  • Refrigerate in an airtight jar or container for up to 5 days.

  • Shake before serving – Natural separation may occur, but a quick shake or stir brings it right back.

Avoid freezing—it will change the texture of the olive oil and nutritional yeast.


Nutritional Benefits

Not only is this dressing delicious, but it’s also packed with health benefits:

  • Nutritional yeast provides B-vitamins and protein

  • Olive oil is rich in healthy monounsaturated fats

  • Dijon mustard is low in calories but adds bold flavor

  • Maple syrup offers natural sweetness without refined sugar

All of this adds up to a healthy homemade salad dressing that tastes better and is better for you than store-bought.

dijon and olive oil dressing

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Dijon salad dressing vegan?

Yes! This recipe is 100% vegan, using nutritional yeast for umami and maple syrup for sweetness.

Can I make it oil-free?

You can try swapping the olive oil for tahini or aquafaba for an oil-free version, but it will change the texture.

What’s the best mustard to use?

Dijon mustard is key here—don’t substitute with yellow mustard, as it’s much milder and less flavorful.

How long does it last in the fridge?

Up to 5 days in an airtight container. Shake or stir before each use.


Conclusion: The Best Tangy-Sweet Dijon Salad Dressing

This tangy-sweet Dijon salad dressing with nutritional yeast is a small-batch powerhouse—rich, creamy, and layered with bold, balanced flavor. Whether you're dressing a fresh salad, powering up a grain bowl, or jazzing up roasted vegetables, it delivers every time.

Skip the store-bought bottles full of preservatives and make this easy, homemade version instead. It’s fast, fresh, and guaranteed to bring your meals to life.


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