Fresh Sage Vinaigrette (Easy Homemade Salad Dressing)
Transform your everyday greens with this Fresh Sage Vinaigrette, a bright and flavorful homemade salad dressing that instantly upgrades any bowl. This easy vinaigrette delivers a clean, vibrant taste that turns ordinary salads into something truly special.
There’s something about fresh herbs that makes a simple salad feel intentional. I first made this Fresh Sage Vinaigrette during the cooler months when sage was thriving, and one drizzle completely transformed my bowl of greens.
Now it’s the kind of dressing I keep on repeat. Add this dressing to this Apple and Endive Salad for the most flavorful salad!
Spotlight on This Fresh Sage Vinaigrette (Easy Homemade Salad Dressing)
- It transforms a salad: This Fresh Sage Vinaigrette turns even the simplest bowl of greens into something vibrant and elevated. The fresh herbs and bright acidity make it the true star of the plate.
- It’s easy to make: Just add the ingredients to a mason jar, shake well, and it’s ready in minutes. No blender, no complicated steps.
- It’s fresh and flavorful: The bold taste of freshly minced sage paired with citrus and vinegar creates a clean, herby dressing that feels restaurant-worthy.
- It’s wholesome: Made without refined sugar, seed oils, or unnecessary additives, this healthy homemade salad dressing is one you can feel good about serving.
- It’s versatile: Drizzle it over roasted vegetables, grain bowls, or even use it as a marinade to add fresh sage flavor beyond just salads.
The Ingredients
Olive oil: Use a high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor. It forms the smooth, rich base of this vinaigrette and helps carry the fresh sage beautifully.
Champagne vinegar: This light, delicate vinegar adds a subtle tang without overpowering the herbs. It keeps the dressing bright and balanced.
Lime juice: Fresh lime juice adds a clean, citrusy lift that enhances the sage and keeps the dressing tasting fresh.
Maple syrup: Just a touch of pure maple syrup balances the acidity and rounds out the flavors naturally, without refined sugar.
Dijon mustard: Dijon adds depth and helps emulsify the dressing, giving it a slightly creamy consistency and a subtle kick.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic brings bold, savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the earthy sage.
Fresh sage: The star ingredient. Finely minced fresh sage gives this vinaigrette its unique, aromatic, and slightly cozy flavor.
Salt and pepper: A simple pinch enhances all the flavors and ties the dressing together perfectly.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, I wouldn’t. Fresh sage is highly recommended for the best flavor. Dried sage is more concentrated.
Sure! I recommend basil, but feel free to add your favorite minced herbs.
Stored in an airtight container, this vinaigrette lasts 5 days in the fridge.
This dressing is delicious on any salad, but it truly was made for this Apple Endive Salad.
The Instructions
Step one: Add all of the ingredients to a mason jar, including olive oil, champagne vinegar, lime juice, maple syrup, Dijon, garlic, sage, salt, and pepper. Add the lid and give it a good shake. Pour immediately onto a salad and toss.
Storage
The dressing can sit on the counter for up to one hour and then must be refrigerated. Secure the lid and store in the fridge for up to five days.
Allow the refrigerated dressing to sit on the counter for at least 30 minutes, and give it a good shake before using. The oil can harden in the fridge.
Tips and Modifications
Use fresh sage, not dried. Fresh sage gives this vinaigrette its signature bright, earthy flavor. Dried sage can taste overpowering and slightly bitter.
Finely mince the sage. Sage leaves are sturdy, so chopping them very finely helps distribute the flavor evenly throughout the dressing.
Let it sit before serving. Allow the vinaigrette to rest for at least 10–15 minutes so the flavors can meld together beautifully.
Feel free to swap out the sage for another fresh herb like basil.
More Vinaigrette Recipes
Chipotle and Roasted Bell Pepper Vinaigrette
Fresh Sage Vinaigrette (Easy Homemade Salad Dressing)
Equipment
- 1 mason jar with lid *or small bowl and whisk
Ingredients
- ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
- ¼ cup champagne vinegar
- juice from ½ a lime
- 1 teaspoon pure maple syrup
- ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh sage, minced
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Add all of the ingredients to a mason jar, including olive oil, champagne vinegar, lime juice, maple syrup, Dijon, garlic, sage, salt, and pepper. Add the lid and give it a good shake. Pour immediately onto a salad and toss.
