Liven up any salad with this delightful oil-free orange vinaigrette.

overhead view of glass bowl containing orange vinaigrette on a marble background

Ask any Floridian and they’ll tell you there’s nothing like fresh-squeezed orange juice straight from the tree. Tangy, bright, and incomparably sweet, with a vibrant, uplifting aroma that puts your mind in instant vacation mode.

Orange juice is so good, it’s a shame it’s typically just thought of as a breakfast drink. Here, with a few simple ingredients, orange juice transforms into the perfect salad dressing. This orange vinaigrette lends a subtle sweetness, freshness, and zippy tang to any salad greens. And it’s oil-free, so you can enjoy it without the added fat that comes with oil-based dressings.

Why you’ll love this recipe

A refreshing change of pace: Why limit your salad dressings to the same old options? This dressing is an easy way to add a unique new flavor to your greens.
Super easy: With only 5 minutes of prep, this is an easy dressing to add into your rotation.
Health benefits: Vitamin C! This vitamin has a host of benefits, including supporting the immune system, protecting cells, and helping maintain skin health.

Ingredients

Orange juice: Use fresh-squeezed if you can (but strain out the pulp). Store-bought also works (look for “not from concentrate” and “100% orange juice” on the label for the best flavor). If it’s available in your area and your budget allows, Natalie’s is the closest I’ve found to fresh-squeezed flavor.
Champagne vinegar: Adds mild acidity. If you don’t have champagne vinegar on hand, any mild vinegars (e.g., rice vinegar, white wine vinegar, or red wine vinegar) would likely work well as a substitute.
Dijon mustard: Enhances the flavor.
Maple syrup: The small amount used here adds a touch of sweetness.
Freshly cracked black pepper: Adds a subtle kick.

See recipe card for quantities.

Instructions

Step 1: Add all the ingredients to a small bowl or mason jar.

Step 2: Stir well to combine or, if using a mason jar, put on the lid and shake well.

Enjoy immediately on any leafy greens or use it to make Kale Citrus Salad.

Equipment

Small bowl or mason jar with lid
Fork or spoon
Liquid measuring cup
Measuring spoons

Storage

Orange vinaigrette will keep well in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 1 week.