DIY French Dressing

I once had a high school friend who put French dressing on nearly everything, even pizza. Her love for it always puzzled me. However, seeing how much my mom and oldest son enjoy it, I thought it might be time to find a good homemade recipe.

The Story Behind French Dressing

The French salad dressing known today was only developed relatively recently. Prior to the 1960s, the traditional French vinaigrette consisted mainly of oil and vinegar, something we now simply call vinaigrette. Older cookbooks featured seasonings such as black pepper and lemon juice, gradually incorporating shallots, garlic powder, Dijon mustard, and more.

With time, ingredients like paprika and even ketchup were added, leading to the bright orange version popular now.

Despite not having French origins, French dressing has become a beloved American classic.

Historically, French dressing ingredients were governed by the FDA. In the 1920s, mineral oil (derived from petroleum) became popular as a replacement for olive oil. Being indigestible and functioning as a laxative, it gained traction for weight loss purposes in salad dressings.

Over time, processed food companies introduced variations like Catalina dressing and creamy French versions.

Wholesome French Dressing

Trying this homemade version gave me insight into the appeal of French dressing. Comprising only real food ingredients and excluding vegetable oils and processed sugars, it’s a quick and delicious option. We enjoy it with various dishes (though perhaps not pizza). I aimed to balance the original oil and vinegar base with a subtle sweetness, reminiscent of the newer recipes.

I prefer using white wine vinegar, but red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar will suffice, though with stronger flavors. Tomato paste contributes color and taste without excessive sugar, while honey lends slight sweetness and helps emulsify the oil and vinegar.

My kids relish dipping fresh vegetables in this dressing, probably because it resembles homemade ketchup. If you’re fond of French dressing (or even if you’re not), give this healthier homemade version a try.

Healthy French Dressing Recipe

A quick and tasty homemade substitute for store-bought French dressing, ready in under two minutes.

Nutrition Facts
Healthy French Dressing Recipe

Amount Per Serving (1 TBSP)
Calories 60
Calories from Fat 54

% Daily Value*
Fat 6g 9%
Saturated Fat 1g 6%
Polyunsaturated Fat 1g
Monounsaturated Fat 4g
Sodium 24mg 1%
Potassium 18mg 1%
Carbohydrates 1g 0%
Fiber 0.1g 0%
Sugar 1g 1%
Protein 0.1g 0%
Vitamin A 20IU 0%
Vitamin C 0.3mg 0%
Calcium 2mg 0%
Iron 0.1mg 1%