Instantly elevate your favorite dishes with this mouthwatering Miso Vinaigrette! Made with four simple ingredients, it is a harmonious blend of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors perfect for topping salads, bowls, poultry, seafood, and even pizza!
This post was originally published on August 7, 2019. It was updated with new recipe information on April 18, 2024.
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This miso salad dressing recipe is a delicious combination of rich olive oil, tangy notes of balsamic vinegar, and a delicate maple syrup sweetness. What sets this maple vinaigrette apart is a subtle yet distinctive salty umami flavor from white miso paste. The blend of rich flavors adds depth and dimension to any dish, leaving a memorable impression on your taste buds.
Miso maple vinaigrette is not just a salad dressing! Its thick and luxurious texture makes it ideal for drizzling on everything from grilled meat and grain bowls to sandwiches and roasted veggies. Enjoy the tantalizing flavors of this versatile dressing for everyday meals, to add a gourmet touch to dinner party dishes, or to use as a dipping sauce for picnics or potlucks!
Why You’ll Love Miso Salad Dressing
- Easy to Make. Four simple ingredients and five minutes are all you need to whip up this maple vinaigrette recipe!
- Bold Flavor. This dressing combines savory, tangy, and sweet flavors in perfect harmony to create a full-bodied experience in every bite.
- Versatile. This white miso dressing is not limited to salads! Use it as a condiment to elevate various dishes, from bowls to sushi to seafood.
- Long-Lasting. A batch of prepared dressing will last for 2-3 weeks in the refrigerator, making it an easy condiment to have on hand for multiple meals!
- Customizable. Easily make this recipe your own by adjusting the ingredients to suit your taste. Make it sweeter with more maple or tangier with more balsamic – create your perfect balance!
Ingredients
- Olive Oil: Choose a high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the richest flavor and smoothest texture. Alternatively, you can use light olive oil, avocado oil, or sesame oil for a stronger umami flavor.
- Balsamic Vinegar: Well-aged balsamic vinegar gives this maple dressing vinaigrette recipe a complex flavor profile with delightful tanginess. Alternatively, you can use red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar for a similar tanginess.
- Maple Syrup: Adds a subtle sweetness to the dressing that rounds out the flavors without overpowering them. Alternatively, you can swap for honey or agave nectar.
- White Miso Paste: You can find white miso paste in health food stores like Whole Foods and Sprouts, Asian markets, or easily order from Amazon! Alternatively, you can use yellow miso or chickpea miso paste for a soy-free alternative.
How to Make Miso Salad Dressing
Step 1: Combine all the ingredients in a blender or food processor.
Step 2: Blend on high until smooth and emulsified, combining the ingredients until there is no separation.
Recipe Pro-Tips
- Use high-quality ingredients. Opt for the best quality olive oil, balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, and miso paste for the freshest flavor. It will enhance the quality of the miso dressing for salad and anything else you put it on.
- Emulsify properly. Blend the ingredients until well incorporated to achieve a stable emulsion which is key to creating a creamy and cohesive dressing. You don’t want to see any separation of ingredients.
- Let it sit. Allow the dressing to sit, either in the refrigerator or at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before serving for the best flavor. This will allow the flavors to meld together and thicken in texture.
- Make a big batch. Double or triple the ingredients in this recipe and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks! You’ll have a ready-made condiment to add to dishes as you please.
- Thicken the dressing. Add 1-2 tablespoons of Greek yogurt or tahini for a creamier dressing or thicker condiment. This will add richness while maintaining the tangy flavor profile.
Recipe Mix-Ins
- Garlic: Infuse the dressing with garlic powder or 1-2 minced garlic cloves. If using fresh garlic cloves, allow the dressing to sit for a few hours so the flavors can meld.
- Citrus Zest: Add the zest of one lemon or orange for a bright, refreshing twist that compliments the other savory flavors. The added aroma and tanginess are great for summer dishes!
- Spices: Try adding a pinch of cumin and/or ground ginger or freshly grated ginger for a layer of complexity.
- Herbs: Mix in chopped fresh herbs like basil, cilantro, or parsley for a fresh, herbaceous aroma.
- Nutty Flavor: Mix in 1-2 tablespoons of your favorite nut butter like cashew, almond, or peanut for a creamy, nutty undertone.
- Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha sauce to add some heat.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy this miso salad dressing as a versatile condiment and add a burst of sweet, tangy flavor to your favorite dishes! Dress up a simple spinach salad or drizzle on this roasted cauliflower & cabbage salad for the ultimate summer side.
Toss it in warm grain bowls or add to grilled seafood or meats. Maple salad dressing even makes a tasty topping for pizza, sushi rolls, and soup. The possibilities are endless!
Storage Directions
Leftovers keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 weeks. Bring the dressing to room temperature before serving for the best consistency.
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FAQs
Yes, this dressing is vegan and vegetarian-friendly. It does not contain any animal products, but I recommend double-checking the ingredients you use to ensure they meet your dietary needs.
Yes! If you don’t have a blender or food processor, combine all the miso maple dressing ingredients in a mixing bowl and use a whisk to vigorously blend until smooth.
Yes, if desired, you swap tahini (sesame seed paste) for the miso for a nuttier flavor profile and soy-free option.
Tools Needed to Make This Recipe
More Salad Recipes
- Lemon Tahini Salad Dressing
- Moroccan Chickpea & Roasted Carrot Salad
- Blueberry Avocado Spinach Salad
- Warm Kale Salad
If you made and liked this recipe, don't forget to rate the recipe and let me know how it went for you in the comments! It always makes my day to hear from you!
Sally says
Ohhh, that’s a really nice dressing, I didn’t use all the maple syrup either.lovely. Thanks
Mae's Menu says
So glad you liked it, Sally!
Lindsay says
I love this! I have found so many different uses for this dressing, massaged into kale salad, tossed with roasted brussels sprouts, drizzled over delicata squash, it's amazing! Thank you for posting!
Mae's Menu says
Hi, Lindsay!
Ooh, I love all of your creative uses! I may try some of those out myself. 🙂 Thanks so much for sharing and so glad you like the dressing!
Best,
Chelsea