Imagine a salad dressing that’s both tangy and savory, with a hint of sweetness that balances out the acidity. That’s precisely what you get with the classic French Sauce Marchand De Vin! This versatile dressing elevates any salad from ordinary to extraordinary, making it a perfect choice for special occasions or simply when you want to treat yourself.
Sauce Marchand De Vin, which translates to “wine merchant’s sauce,” is traditionally used to accompany steak. However, its rich, complex flavor profile also works wonders on salads, adding a touch of French elegance to your meal. Intrigued? Let’s dive into the world of flavors and learn how to create this delightful dressing in your own kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 shallot, finely minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Tools of the Trade
- Small mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring spoons and cups
Step-by-Step Guide
- Combine the Base: In your mixing bowl, whisk together the red wine vinegar and Dijon mustard until well combined.
- Slowly Drizzle in Oil: While whisking constantly, slowly drizzle in the olive oil to create an emulsion. This will help the dressing come together and prevent it from separating.
- Add Flavor Enhancers: Stir in the minced shallot, chopped parsley, and fresh thyme leaves.
- Season to Perfection: Season your sauce generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Be sure to taste and adjust the seasonings to your preference.
Sauce Marchand de Vin Dressing Ingredients
Tips and Tricks
- For a milder flavor: If you prefer a milder shallot flavor, soak the minced shallots in cold water for about 10 minutes, then drain well before adding to the dressing.
- Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to experiment with other fresh herbs like chives, tarragon, or chervil for a unique twist.
- Make it Ahead: This dressing can be made ahead of time! Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to give it a good whisk before serving.
Presentation Matters
While this dressing tastes fantastic on any salad, presentation plays a crucial role in elevating your culinary creation. Here are a few ideas to inspire you:
- Classic Elegance: Toss your sauce with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onions, and crumbled feta cheese.
- Hearty Delight: Drizzle it over a bed of romaine lettuce, grilled chicken or steak, hard-boiled eggs, avocado, and crumbled bacon.
Salad Tossed with Sauce Marchand de Vin
Conclusion
Congratulations! You’ve just mastered the art of making a classic Sauce Marchand De Vin dressing. Now, it’s time to unleash your inner chef and impress your family and friends with this delicious and easy-to-make dressing. Don’t forget to experiment with different salad combinations and share your culinary creations with us in the comments below! Happy cooking!
