White Balsamic Maple Dressing
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Looking for a balsamic dressing that hits the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and herby? This White Balsamic Maple Dressing is silky, golden, and way more exciting than anything in a bottle. It pours smooth, clings beautifully to greens, and gives every bite that “oh, wow” factor. Plus, it’s made with real maple syrup for natural sweetness and a touch of elegance without being fussy.

Ingredient Notes + Variations
This balsamic dressing uses simple ingredients, but each one brings real flavor. The maple syrup balances the tangy vinegar, the garlic adds depth, and the tarragon brings a subtle, slightly sweet herbal note.
- Garlic – Fresh garlic mashed into a paste adds richness that raw chunks just don’t deliver.
- Maple Syrup – Real maple syrup (not pancake syrup) gives a natural, smooth sweetness.
- White Balsamic Vinegar – Milder than dark balsamic, it’s light and slightly fruity.
- Tarragon – Adds a soft, anise-like flavor. You can swap in fresh basil, parsley, or thyme if desired.
- Olive Oil – Choose a good-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.

How to Make White Balsamic Maple Dressing
This balsamic dressing couldn’t be easier. You just smash, whisk, and shake… then drizzle away. For full recipe details, including ingredients needed and measurements, see the printable recipe card down below.
Step 1: Prep the Garlic

finely chop garlic

mash garlic with salt into a smooth paste using the side of a knife or spoon
Step 2: Mix the Base

add maple syrup to the garlic paste

add tarragon

add vinegar
Step 3: Emulsify
Step 4: Taste and Adjust

season with more salt and pepper to your liking

Tips for Success
- Mash garlic into a paste so it blends smoothly instead of leaving sharp chunks.
- Use coarse sea salt to give the garlic some texture for easier mashing.
- Use a jar with a tight lid for easy shaking and storing.
- Chill the dressing for 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
- If it separates after sitting, just shake it again.

What to Serve with White Balsamic Maple Dressing
This balsamic dressing is versatile and pairs with so many recipes:
- Kale Salad – Fresh and crunchy, this dressing was made for it.
- Sous Vide Chicken Breasts – Juicy chicken loves a drizzle of this sweet-tangy finish.
- Roasted Root Vegetables – Toss warm veggies in the dressing for extra shine.
- Grain Bowls – Ties everything together with fresh, bright flavor.
- Caprese Salad – I love adding a balsamic dressing to this fresh salad.
This White Balsamic Maple Dressing is quick to make, full of fresh flavor, and guaranteed to make any salad shine. Once you try it, you’ll keep it on repeat. The printable recipe is below. Have a great day, friends!

White Balsamic Maple Dressing
Ingredients
- 2 cloves garlic fresh
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup real maple syrup
- 1/2 cup white balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried tarragon
- 2/3 cup olive oil
- ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Peel and chop garlic very finely. Sprinkle salt on garlic and using the side of your knife or the back of a spoon, mash the garlic into a paste using the salt as an abrasive. Place garlic and salt into the bottom of a salad dressing container or small bowl.
- Stir in maple syrup, tarragon and vinegar. Add oil in a constant stream while whisking, or if you’re using a container with a lid, pour it all in and shake it up.
- You want to emulsify the dressing, or suspend the oil in the other ingredients so it’s evenly mixed. It’ll look sort of creamy when it’s emulsified.
- Taste and add more salt and pepper to your liking.
Video
Notes
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerator – Store in a sealed container for up to 1 week.
- Shake Before Serving – The oil may separate, but a quick shake brings it back together.
- Make Ahead – Great to prep in advance, just keep it chilled.
- Freezer – This balsamic dressing isn’t ideal for freezing since oil and vinegar separate when thawed.
Nutrition
Variations
- Fresh Herbs – Swap dried tarragon for fresh parsley, basil, or thyme.
- Citrus Twist – Add a squeeze of lemon or orange juice for extra brightness.
- Mustard Kick – Whisk in a teaspoon of Dijon for a tangier, creamier dressing.
- Honey Option – Sub in honey if maple syrup isn’t on hand.
More Recipes to Try
- Homemade Ranch Dressing – Creamy and classic.
- Caesar Salad Dressing – Bold and garlicky.
- Greek Salad Dressing – Zesty and versatile.
- Italian Salad Dressing – Fresh, herby, and tangy.
- Caprese Salad Dressing – Sweet and thick for drizzling.
If you make this recipe, I would really appreciate it if you would give it a star rating and leave your review in the comments! If you have a picture of your finished dish, post it on Instagram using the hashtag #laurenslatest and tagging me @laurens_latest.






I would like to try this recipe; however, I am not a fan of tarragon. Is there a substitute for this herb?
Mary Ann, you can substitute any herb you do like or just leave it out completely.