This homemade French dressing is tangy, sweet, and perfect for salads or as a marinade.
In a small saucepan, combine the sugar and vinegar, and gently heat while stirring until the sugar dissolves.
Heating helps the sugar dissolve faster, creating a smooth base for the dressing.
Add the mustard, paprika, and finely grated onion to the mixture and stir well.
Grating the onion ensures it blends seamlessly into the dressing.
Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously to emulsify the dressing.
Whisking vigorously ensures the oil and vinegar combine into a creamy consistency.
Squeeze in the juice of the lemon and give the dressing a final whisk.
Adding lemon juice at the end preserves its fresh, tangy flavor.
Transfer the dressing to a jar, seal tightly, and refrigerate until ready to use.
Shake the jar before each use to re-emulsify the dressing.