Apple Cider Vinegar Dressing: 5-Minute Recipe
Apple cider vinegar dressing is a tangy oil-and-vinegar salad dressing that takes 5 minutes to make and yields 6 servings of 1 tablespoon (15 ml) each.
Use it to add acidity and richness to leafy greens, chopped vegetables or these detox salad recipes. The recipe makes approximately 90 ml, or 3/8 cup, in total.
What ingredients do you need?
- Apple cider vinegar: 30 ml (1/8 cup or 2 tablespoons; approximately 30 g)
- Olive oil: 60 ml (1/4 cup or 4 tablespoons; approximately 54 g)
Choose an apple cider vinegar with a flavor you enjoy. Filtered and unfiltered versions both work; the cloudy material called the “mother” is not necessary for the recipe.
Extra-virgin olive oil gives the dressing a more pronounced flavor, while a milder olive oil lets the vinegar stand out. Measure both ingredients rather than guessing if you want to keep the proportions and nutrition estimate consistent.
How do you make apple cider vinegar dressing?
- Measure the apple cider vinegar and olive oil into a small bowl or clean jar.
- Whisk the ingredients together, or close the jar tightly and shake until combined.
- Taste a little on a piece of salad to check the flavor.
- Serve immediately, using about 1 tablespoon (15 ml) per portion, and refrigerate the remainder.
For another customized idea after making this recipe, try the ai detox recipe generator.
The oil and vinegar will separate as the dressing stands. That is normal: whisk or shake it again just before serving. There is no steeping time, so you can make it while preparing the rest of the meal.
For a milder dressing, use less vinegar next time; for a sharper one, use a little more. Changing the ratio will change the yield and the nutrition per serving.
Why does it fit a detox-style meal?
Apple cider vinegar dressing can make vegetables more appealing, but it does not remove toxins from the body. The liver and kidneys do most of the body's detoxification, while the lungs and gut help eliminate waste; sweat removes only trace amounts.
A salad with this dressing can be part of a balanced meal, and drinking enough water supports normal hydration. There is no need to drink apple cider vinegar dressing or take vinegar straight for a supposed detox benefit.
If acidic foods aggravate your reflux or irritate your mouth, use a small amount with food or skip the dressing. Straight vinegar is especially acidic and can damage tooth enamel.
What is the nutrition per serving?
The following estimates are for the two-ingredient recipe, divided into 6 equal portions. Most of the calories and fat come from the olive oil; the vinegar contributes relatively little.
| Amount | Per serving | Whole recipe |
|---|---|---|
| Dressing | 1 tablespoon (15 ml) | 6 tablespoons (90 ml) |
| Calories | Approximately 80 kcal | Approximately 480 kcal |
| Fat | Approximately 9 g | Approximately 54 g |
These are estimates, not a laboratory analysis. The amount on your plate can vary if the dressing has separated or if you use more or less than 1 tablespoon. Any additions, as well as the foods you dress, will also change the meal's nutrition.
How should you store and prep it?
Put leftover apple cider vinegar dressing in a clean, covered container and refrigerate it promptly. Use it within 2 days; discard it sooner if it develops an unusual smell or appearance.
Olive oil may thicken or solidify in the refrigerator. Let the dressing stand briefly until it can be shaken, mix it again and return any unused portion to the refrigerator promptly. Separation alone is normal and does not mean the dressing has spoiled.
For meal prep, keep the dressing separate from the salad until serving so the greens stay crisp. Use a clean spoon to portion it rather than dipping used utensils into the storage jar.
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Ai Detox Recipe Generator →Frequently asked questions
Does the apple cider vinegar need to contain the mother?
No. Filtered and unfiltered apple cider vinegar both work in the dressing.
Can I use apple cider vinegar dressing as a marinade?
Yes. If it touches raw meat, poultry or seafood, discard the used marinade rather than serving it as dressing.
Is this apple cider vinegar dressing gluten-free?
The recipe uses only apple cider vinegar and olive oil. If you need to avoid gluten, check the labels for any ingredients or cross-contact warnings relevant to you.