Citrus Manuka Honey & Wholegrain Mustard Dressing
A zesty, trending dressing that uses Manuka honey for depth and balance
Bright lemon and tangy wholegrain mustard meet New Zealand Manuka honey in this versatile salad dressing — perfect for leafy salads, roasted veg, or as a glaze. Quick to make and great to prepare ahead so the flavours meld.
Timing
Cook Time: PT0M
Prep Time: PT10M
Rest Time: PT30M
Total Time: PT40M
Active Time: PT10M
Ingredients
2
tbsp
Manuka honey
(Notes: use UMF 12+ for flavour; room temperature so it pours easily)
2
tbsp
wholegrain mustard
(Notes: adds texture and tang)
120
ml
extra virgin olive oil
(Notes: use a mild-flavour oil for balance)
45
ml
apple cider vinegar
(Notes: or white wine vinegar)
1
tbsp
fresh lemon juice
(Notes: about half a lemon)
1
tsp
lemon zest
(Notes: finely grated for brightness)
1
clove
garlic
(Notes: minced, optional)
1/4
tsp
sea salt
(Notes: adjust to taste)
1/4
tsp
freshly ground black pepper
2
tbsp
fresh parsley
(Notes: finely chopped; optional)
Instructions
Step 1
In a medium bowl combine the Manuka honey, wholegrain mustard, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice and lemon zest. Add the minced garlic, salt and pepper.
Tip: Warm the honey slightly if it’s very thick so it mixes smoothly (place jar in warm water for a few minutes).
Timing: PT0S
Step 2
Whisk steadily and slowly pour in the olive oil in a thin stream to create an emulsion, or place all ingredients in a jar and shake vigorously until well combined.
Tip: If using a jar, leave about 1 cm headspace so it shakes easily; shaking gives a lighter texture.
Timing: PT02M
Step 3
Taste and adjust seasoning — add more lemon for brightness, a little extra honey for sweetness, or a pinch more salt if needed.
Tip: Balance is key: Manuka honey is intense, so small adjustments go a long way.
Timing: PT01M
Step 4
Transfer the dressing to a covered container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavours to marry. Shake or whisk again before serving.
Tip: Making the dressing a few hours ahead (or the night before) improves depth of flavour — bring to room temperature and re-emulsify before use.
Timing: PT30M
Step 5
Serve over mixed baby greens, roasted root vegetables, or use as a glaze for chicken or salmon. Store in the fridge for up to 7 days.
Tip: If it solidifies in the fridge, set the jar in warm water and shake to loosen. Always re-emulsify before drizzling.
Timing: PT0S