Store bought salad dressings are often too sweet, too tangy, or packed with ingredients that make you lose interest before even tasting them. If you are looking for a simple, balanced, and quick dressing that works just as well on salads as it does on chicken and sandwiches, this easy honey mustard dressing recipe is for you.

The best part about this recipe
Only a few basic ingredients
Ready in just 5 minutes
Sweet, tangy, and creamy with a perfectly balanced flavor

What Is Honey Mustard Dressing

Honey mustard dressing is a sweet and tangy sauce made by mixing honey and mustard with oil and vinegar. The honey adds sweetness while the mustard brings a sharp, tangy flavor. Depending on how you make it, the dressing can be light or creamy.

This dressing is not just for salads. It also tastes great with grilled chicken, wraps, and sandwiches.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You do not need any fancy ingredients for this recipe.

2 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons mustard, Dijon or yellow mustard
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, optional

Tip If you want a creamier texture, you can add 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise. This is optional.

How to Make Honey Mustard Dressing Step by Step

Step 1 Base Mix

Add the honey and mustard to a small bowl and mix well until smooth.

Step 2 Add the Oil Slowly

Slowly whisk in the olive oil a little at a time. This helps the dressing turn smooth and well blended.

Step 3 Balance the Flavor

Add the apple cider vinegar or lemon juice. This helps balance the sweetness of the honey.

Step 4 Season

Add salt and a little black pepper, then adjust the taste as needed.

That is it. The dressing is ready. If it feels too thick, add one or two teaspoons of water to adjust the consistency.

How to Use Honey Mustard Dressing

This dressing is very versatile.

For Salads

It works well with green salads, chicken salads, and even coleslaw.

For Chicken

Drizzle it over grilled, baked, or air fried chicken, or use it as a simple marinade.

For Sandwiches and Wraps

Spread it instead of mayonnaise to instantly upgrade the flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using too much mustard can make the dressing overly sharp.
Adding all the oil at once can prevent proper blending.
Skipping the taste test can throw off the balance since different brands of honey and mustard vary in flavor.

Always taste and adjust at the end.

Variations You Can Try

For a healthier version, skip the mayonnaise and use only olive oil.
For a spicy version, add a pinch of chili flakes or a little hot sauce.
For a creamy version, add Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise.

Storage Tips

Store the dressing in an airtight jar in the refrigerator.
It stays fresh for up to five to seven days.
Shake or stir before using.

Final Thoughts

This easy honey mustard dressing recipe is one of those recipes you end up making again and again. With simple ingredients, quick prep, and multiple uses, it easily becomes a kitchen staple.

If you make salads or quick meals often, keeping this dressing ready in your fridge is honestly very helpful.