I had a friend in high school who loved putting French dressing on everything, including pizza. I couldn’t understand why she loved it so much. Both my mother and my eldest son like it very much, so we decided to find a good homemade version.
French dressing?
French salad dressing as we know it today didn’t exist until recently. Until the 1960s, the classic French vinaigrette was originally a healthy oil and vinegar dressing, now simply called vinaigrette. Vintage cookbooks list seasonings such as black pepper and lemon juice, and later ingredients such as shallots, garlic powder, and Dijon mustard were added as well.
Over the years, ingredients such as paprika (and even ketchup) have been added, and the bright orange version is popular today.
It may not have originated in France at all, but it’s definitely an American favorite.
And until recently, the ingredients in French dressing were regulated by the FDA. That’s because after 1920, mineral oil (yes, petroleum-based) became a popular substitute for olive oil. Mineral oil is not digested and acts as a laxative, making it a popular alternative to salad dressings for weight loss.
Eventually, packaged food brands created spin-off options like Catalina Dressing and Creamy French Dressing.
authentic french dressing
This homemade version shows you why we love French dressing so much. Made with only real ingredients, no vegetable oil or processed sugar, it’s easy and delicious. It goes well with almost any meal (other than pizza?). The original oil and vinegar base is balanced with a hint of sweetness reminiscent of the new version.
I use white wine vinegar, but you can also use red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar (although they have a stronger flavor). Tomato paste adds color and flavor without adding a ton of sugar. The honey adds a little sweetness and acts as an emulsifier for the oil and vinegar.
My kids love dipping their fresh vegetables in this salad dressing (probably because it’s similar to homemade ketchup). If you’re a fan of French dressing (or even if you’re not), try this healthier homemade version instead.
Healthy French Dressing Recipe
A simple and delicious alternative to store-bought French dressing, this homemade dressing can be made in under 2 minutes.
Nutritional information table
Healthy French Dressing Recipe
Amount per serving (1 TBSP)
Calories 60 Calories from fat 54
% daily value*
Fat 6g9%
Saturated fat 1g6%
1g polyunsaturated fat
4g monounsaturated fat
Sodium 24mg1%
Potassium 18mg1%
Carbohydrate 1g0%
Dietary fiber 0.1g0%
Sugar 1g1%
Protein 0.1g0%
Vitamin A 20IU0%
Vitamin C 0.3mg0%
Calcium 2mg0%
Iron 0.1mg1%
*Percent daily intake is based on a 2000 calorie diet.
You can add it to salads or use it as a dipping sauce.
See more salad dressing recipes
I love a good salad, so I try to use a variety of salad dressings to keep it fresh. Here are some of our favorites.
What is your favorite thing to eat with French dressing? Let us know by leaving a comment.
