Ready in: 5 minutes · Serves: About 1 cup · Technique: Whisking · Storage: 1 week in the fridge.
Quick Answer
This 5-minute honey mustard sauce elevates any dish with its sweet and tangy flavor.
As the crispness of fall settles in New York City and the festive scents of Thanksgiving and Christmas begin to waft through our homes, I find myself craving quick and delicious ways to elevate my meals. That’s why I couldn’t wait to share this easy and scrumptious 5-Minute Honey Mustard Sauce. It’s one of those magical recipes that can turn a simple salad or roasted vegetable dish into something spectacular. Plus, it’s the perfect addition to your holiday table, adding a touch of sweetness and tang that complements so many dishes.
A Versatile Holiday Condiment
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare—ready in just 5 minutes!
- Versatile sauce that enhances a variety of dishes.
- Adds a delightful balance of sweetness and tang to your meals.
- Perfect for holiday gatherings and everyday meals alike.
- Utilizes high-quality ingredients for maximum flavor impact.
Ingredients
This simple recipe requires just a few staple ingredients:
Dressing Components
- ½ cup Dijon mustard
- ⅓ cup honey
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make 5-Minute Honey Mustard Sauce (Step-by-Step)
Indulge in the simplicity of this recipe that comes together in just a few easy steps.
Step 1: Combine Mustard and Honey
In a medium bowl, combine the Dijon mustard and honey. As I mix these two together, I always love watching that gorgeous golden swirl happen; it’s like autumn in a bowl.
Step 2: Add Apple Cider Vinegar
Next, whisk in the apple cider vinegar. The sharpness of the vinegar cuts through the sweetness of the honey, creating a delightful balance. You’ll notice it becoming glossy and smooth—just the way I like it.
Step 3: Drizzle in Olive Oil
Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously. This is where the magic happens; the sauce begins to emulsify, transforming into a velvety blend. Trust me, you’ll want to take a moment just to admire this glossy mixture.
Step 4: Season to Taste
Finally, season with a touch of salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste. I often play around with this part, sometimes adding a pinch of smoked salt for a subtle complexity that’s perfect for the upcoming holiday feasts.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using yellow mustard: Trust me, the complexity of Dijon is key here. Yellow mustard lacks the depth!
- Forgetting to whisk: It’s essential to whisk continuously when adding the olive oil to achieve the perfect emulsification. A rogue oily layer is not what we’re going for.
- Skipping the salt and pepper: Just a pinch can elevate the sauce so much. Don’t skip this step!
Tips and Tricks for Success
- This recipe can be easily doubled or halved, making it perfect for large gatherings or intimate dinners.
- Consider adding herbs like dill or tarragon to create a unique flavor twist, especially if you want to impress your holiday guests!
- Store the sauce in an airtight container in the fridge, and it will keep for about a week. Just give it a good stir before using, as the ingredients will naturally separate.
Variations
- Substitute maple syrup for honey for a different sweetness.
- Add a splash of lemon juice for extra tang.
- Use different types of vinegar, like balsamic or red wine vinegar, for a unique flavor profile.
- Incorporate a touch of garlic for a savory kick.
How to Serve
- Drizzle over roasted Brussels sprouts.
- Toss with greens in a salad.
- Use as a dipping sauce for chicken tenders.
- Spread over slices of holiday ham.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: This sauce can be prepared a few days in advance, making it convenient for holiday meals.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week.
- Reheating: There’s no need to reheat; simply stir before using.
- Freezing: Freezing is not recommended, as it may affect the texture.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
The simplicity of this sauce highlights the beauty of high-quality ingredients. Using a good Dijon mustard makes all the difference; it’s a little reminder that sometimes, less is truly more. I’m excited to share it with family and friends this holiday season!
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 1 cup · Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~80 calories · 1g protein · 18g carbs · 0g fat
Quick and Easy 5-Minute Honey Mustard Sauce
Ingredients
Method
- In a medium bowl, combine the Dijon mustard and honey.
- Whisk in the apple cider vinegar until smooth.
- Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking to emulsify.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Notes
FAQs
Can I use a different type of mustard?
While Dijon mustard is recommended for its complexity, you can experiment with other mustards. However, keep in mind that the flavor will vary significantly—yellow mustard, for example, lacks depth and might not yield the same deliciousness.
How long can I store the honey mustard sauce?
The sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for about a week. Be sure to give it a good stir before using, as the ingredients will naturally separate over time.
Can I adjust the sweetness of the sauce?
Absolutely! You can add more honey if you prefer a sweeter sauce or reduce the amount for a tangier flavor. Just remember to taste and adjust as you go for the best results.
