Cooking & Kitchen
Salad Dressing Ratio Calculator
A classic vinaigrette is 3 parts oil to 1 part vinegar. Scale it by servings, using about 30 ml of oil per serving as a starting point.
These are the total amounts of oil and vinegar for all servings combined, keeping the 3 parts oil to 1 part vinegar ratio.
Formula
Oil = servings x oil per serving. Vinegar = oil / 3.
How it works
The 3:1 ratio is a starting point, not a law. Sharper vinegar needs more oil; mellow vinegar needs less. Taste and adjust.
A teaspoon of mustard helps the dressing stay mixed instead of separating in seconds. Whisk the vinegar and mustard first, then drizzle in the oil.
Worked example
For example, for 4 servings at 30 ml of oil per serving, the oil is 4 × 30 = 120 ml, and the vinegar is 120 ÷ 3 = 40 ml.
FAQs
What oil works best?
A mild olive oil or neutral oil for everyday salads; a peppery extra-virgin oil when the dressing is the star.
How long does homemade dressing keep?
About a week in the fridge in a sealed jar. Shake well before using, since it separates.
Can I change the ratio?
Absolutely. 2:1 is tangier and lighter; 4:1 is mellow and rich. Adjust to your vinegar and taste.
Related calculators
Baking Time Adjustment Calculator
Butter to Oil Conversion Calculator
Instant result, no sign-up.
All tools are free.
Each page shows the formula it uses, so you can check the result yourself.
Built for phone browsers.
Start with a free calculator
Search, pick a calculator, and get an instant result. No sign-up, no download.