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This apple cider vinaigrette is sweet, punchy, and well-balanced – I love use it on salads to pair with rich dishes like pork schnitzel, but it’s great on really anything. The apple cider gives it a natural sweetness, while white wine vinegar, dijon, and shallot add just the right amount of bite.


Chef Tips:
- Use a food processor – It breaks down the shallot and fully emulsifies the dressing, making it smoother and more cohesive.
- Storage tip – Store in the fridge for up to 1 week in a sealed container. Let it come to room temperature before using, as the olive oil will solidify when chilled.
Ingredient Notes:
- Apple Cider – Adds natural sweetness and apple flavor. Either apple cider, or apple juice works here.
- White Wine Vinegar – Brightens the dressing and balances the sweetness. You can substitute with apple cider vinegar if you want to double down on apple flavor.
- Olive Oil – Use a smooth, neutral (unflavored) extra virgin olive oil that won’t overpower the other ingredients.
- Brown Sugar – Optional here to balance out the bite from the dijon, vinegar, and shallot. You can also substitute with maple syrup or honey.
- Dijon Mustard – Helps emulsify the dressing and adds sharpness.
- Shallot – Adds mild onion flavor and body to the vinaigrette. I highly recommend using a food processor or blender to break it down and allow the flavor to meld with the other components.
- Kosher Salt – Enhances all the flavors. If using iodized or sea salt, start with less and adjust to taste.
What this apple cider vinaigrette goes well with:
- Side salads to pair with pork dishes
- Autumn Salad
- Fall Harvest Salad
Apple Cider Vinaigrette
Ingredients
- ¼ cup apple cider
- 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar, or apple cider vinegar
- ½ cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ shallot, chopped into chunks
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Make the vinaigrette by combining everything into a food processor. Blend until emulsified.