Vegan Spicy Mustard Dressing Recipe (2024)

Posted onDecember 6, 2018July 27, 2023Updated onJuly 27, 2023

This hot and spicy vegan mustard dressing is the perfect way to dress up a salad. Made with maple syrup instead of honey, it’s completely vegan but still filled with creamy, zesty flavor.

This recipe is also very versatile. It’s great for tofu, salad greens, or even a dipping sauce for a snack platter. It brings flavor to every dish I use it for!

The blend of spiciness and sweet enhances bland food. I consider it a must-have in my fridge. I usually put this dressing on rotation and make it pretty frequently in the summer months.

Reasons you’ll love this vegan spicy mustard dressing

• It’s vegan but still full of flavor. Your non-vegan friends will want the recipe as well!
• The dressing is great for salads, tofu and even a dipping sauce.
• You can adjust the sweetness of the dressing by changing how much maple syrup you use.
• You don’t need any special equipment to make this dresssing – just mix all your ingredients in a bowl.
• This dressing is much healthier than store bought dressings. You know exactly what you’re getting into when you make it yourself.
• The combination of spicy and sweet makes for an amazing flavor – perfect for summer salads.
• With the addition of maple syrup, this vegan dressing is even better than the traditional honey mustards out there.
• It only takes 5-minutes to throw together.

About the ingredients for this dressing

• Vegan mayonnaise – Thickens the dressing and adds a creamy consistency.
• Dijon mustard – A slight kick of spiciness and an earthy flavor to the dressing.
• Yellow mustard – Adds a little extra tang to the dressing.
• Maple syrup – Sweetens the dressing and adds a hint of caramelized flavor.
• Apple cider vinegar – Balances out the sweetness with an extra punch of tartness.
• Garlic powder – Adds a depth of flavor to the dressing.
• Cayenne pepper – Gives the dressing a subtle kick of spiciness without being overwhelming.
• Salt – Enhances all the other flavors in the dressing.
• Fresh black pepper – Finishes the flavor of the dressing and adds a bit of sharpness.

Tip: for a smoky variation, add 1/4 tsp of smoked paprika. This makes an excellent sauce for vegan nuggets.

Once you have all the ingredients, all you need to do is mix all of your ingredients together in a bowl until they are well combined. Yes, it is that simple!

Ideas for what to use this spicy hot vegan dressing on

1. Summer Salad – Toss your favorite mix of summer greens with this hot and spicy vegan dressing for a flavorful kick.
2. Vegan Wrap – Use the dressing as a spread on a wrap filled with veggies, tofu, or tempeh for an extra punch.
3. Grilled Vegetables – Drizzle over freshly grilled veggies for a sweet, tangy, and spicy finish.
4. Buddha Bowl – Add a spoonful to a Buddha bowl packed with whole grains, veggies, and plant-based protein.
5. Pasta Salad – Mix into a pasta salad for a unique spin on a classic dish.
6. Marinated Tofu – Use as a marinade for tofu before grilling or baking for a touch of heat and sweetness.
7. Roasted Potato Salad – Fold into a roasted potato salad for a spicy update to a picnic staple.
8. Dipping Sauce – Serve as a dipping sauce with a veggie platter or breadsticks. Or, use it to dip French fries in!
9. Stir-Fry Sauce – Pour into a veggie stir-fry for an easy, flavorful sauce.
10. Sandwich Spread – Smear on bread for an elevated vegan sandwich experience.

Here are some great recipes to try this dressing on:

• Any of the sandwiches in these picnic recipes
• Portobello mushroom burgers
• Drizzled on breakfast hash

FAQs about this vegan dressing recipe

Can I make this dressing less spicy?

Yes, you can adjust the spiciness of this dressing to your preference. You can either reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or omit it entirely if you prefer a milder dressing.

Can I substitute maple syrup with something else?

While maple syrup gives this dressing its distinct sweet and caramelized flavor, you can substitute it with agave nectar or brown sugar. However, the flavor will be slightly different.

Can I store this dressing in the fridge? How long will it last?

Yes, you can store this vegan mustard dressing in the fridge. It should last for about a week in a sealed container.

Is there a specific brand of vegan mayonnaise you recommend?

There are many great brands of vegan mayonnaise out there, but some of the favorites include Vegenaise and Hellmann’s Vegan.

What can I use instead of apple cider vinegar?

If you don’t have apple cider vinegar, you can substitute it with white vinegar or lemon juice. However, apple cider vinegar adds a distinct tartness that balances the sweetness of the dressing.

Can I use this dressing immediately after making it?

Yes, you can use it immediately. However, letting the dressing sit for a few hours or overnight allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste.

Can I use Dijon mustard instead of yellow mustard?

Yes, you can, but it will change the flavor profile slightly. Dijon is a bit spicier and more complex than yellow mustard.

If you try this recipe, let me know what dishes you used it for! Leave a comment with any variations you may have made as well. I love implementing new ideas in the kitchen.