What is French dressing?

Also known as vinaigrette (French for 'little vinegar') this is a fairly thick salad dressing made from a mixture of olive oil, wine vinegar (red, white or balsamic) and salt and pepper to which various flavourings can be added such as herbs, mustard, honey or chilli.

The standard ratio is three parts oil to one part vinegar but it's best to experiment until you find a combination you like.

Drizzle it over raw or warm salads, or salad starters such as avocado halves or pan-fried asparagus. There are plenty of ready-made bottled versions to try, but it's very quick and easy to make - just put all the ingredients in a jar and shake well.