Olive Oil Substitute for Salad Dressing

Walnut Oil

Use the same amount as the olive oil you are replacing

Best for gourmet vinaigrettes

The best olive oil substitutes for salad dressings are walnut oil, avocado oil, and grapeseed oil. Walnut oil adds rich, nutty flavor perfect for gourmet dressings, while avocado oil provides a mild, buttery taste. Grapeseed oil offers a neutral base for flavored dressings.

Compare all 9 olive oil substitutes

Discover the best olive oil substitutes for salad dressings and vinaigrettes. Learn which oils provide the best flavor and texture for different types of dressings.

Other olive oil substitutes

Ranked, with the exact amount to use

2Avocado Oil
Use the same amount
Mild, buttery oil that provides a smooth, rich mouthfeel to dressings.
What changes
Works well in both simple vinaigrettes and complex dressings, adding subtle richness without overpowering other flavors.
Best for
creamy dressings, citrus vinaigrettes, Mediterranean dressings, general use
Taste
mild, buttery
Texture
similar
Mild, buttery flavor that works well in most dressings. High smoke point makes it versatile
3Grapeseed Oil
Different taste
Use the same amount
Light, neutral oil that won't interfere with other flavors in your dressing.
What changes
Perfect when you want herbs, spices, or other ingredients to be the star of the show.
Best for
herb dressings, spicy dressings, Asian-inspired dressings, neutral base
Neutral flavor that lets other ingredients shine. Perfect base for flavored dressings
4Canola Oil
Different taste
Use the same amount
Affordable, neutral oil that works well in most dressings.
What changes
Won't add any unwanted flavors and provides the same texture and mouthfeel as olive oil.
Best for
everyday dressings, simple vinaigrettes, budget-friendly options, neutral base
Neutral flavor and affordable option for everyday dressings
5Sesame Oil
Use the same amount
Distinctive nutty oil that's perfect for Asian-inspired dressings.
What changes
Use sparingly as it has a strong flavor, or mix with neutral oils for a more subtle effect.
Best for
Asian dressings, ginger dressings, soy-based dressings, nutty vinaigrettes
Taste
nutty, strong
Texture
similar
Strong, nutty flavor perfect for Asian-inspired dressings. Use sparingly
6Hemp Oil
Use the same amount
Nutty, earthy oil rich in omega-3 fatty acids.
What changes
Perfect for health-conscious dressings and adds a unique flavor profile to green salads and grain bowls.
Best for
health-focused dressings, nutty vinaigrettes, green salads, omega-3 rich dressings
Taste
nutty, earthy
Texture
similar
Nutty, earthy flavor with omega-3 benefits. Don't heat above 300°F

How it behaves in this recipe

Salad dressings require oils that can either enhance or stay neutral to other flavors. The best substitutes provide the right mouthfeel and flavor profile for the type of dressing you're making. Rich oils like walnut work for gourmet dressings, while neutral oils like grapeseed are perfect for herb-based dressings.

Cooking tips

For gourmet dressings, walnut oil provides the most sophisticated flavor profile
When making citrus vinaigrettes, avocado oil's buttery flavor complements the acidity beautifully
For herb-based dressings, use grapeseed oil as a neutral base to let the herbs shine
Sesame oil works best when mixed with neutral oils (try 1 part sesame to 3 parts neutral oil)
Always taste your dressing and adjust the oil-to-acid ratio based on your preference
For creamy dressings, avocado oil provides the best mouthfeel and richness
Store homemade dressings in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before serving
For Asian-inspired dressings, sesame oil adds authentic flavor but use sparingly

Notes on olive oil

Tahini can replace some of the oil in creamy dressings for a nutty, Middle Eastern flavor
Greek yogurt can be used to create creamy dressings with less oil
Nut butters like almond or cashew butter can add richness and flavor to dressings
For low-fat options, use more vinegar or citrus juice and less oil overall
Aquafaba (chickpea liquid) can be whipped to create creamy, oil-free dressings

Frequently asked questions

What's the best substitute for olive oil in salad dressing?

Walnut oil is the best substitute for olive oil in salad dressings, especially for gourmet vinaigrettes. It provides a rich, nutty flavor that adds depth and complexity. For neutral dressings, grapeseed oil or canola oil work well.

Can I use avocado oil for salad dressing?

Yes, avocado oil is excellent for salad dressings. It has a mild, buttery flavor that adds richness without being overpowering, and it works well in both simple vinaigrettes and complex dressings.

What oil should I use for vinaigrettes instead of olive oil?

For vinaigrettes, walnut oil provides the most sophisticated flavor, while grapeseed oil offers a neutral base that lets other ingredients shine. Avocado oil works well for creamy vinaigrettes.

Can I substitute canola oil for olive oil in dressing?

Yes, canola oil can substitute for olive oil in dressings. It has a neutral flavor and similar texture, making it perfect for everyday dressings where you don't want the oil flavor to interfere with other ingredients.

What's a good substitute for extra virgin olive oil in salad dressing?

Walnut oil is the best substitute for extra virgin olive oil in salad dressings. It provides similar richness and complexity, though with a nutty rather than fruity flavor profile.

Can I use sesame oil instead of olive oil in Asian dressings?

Yes, sesame oil is perfect for Asian-inspired dressings. It has a strong, nutty flavor that's authentic to Asian cuisine. Use it sparingly or mix with neutral oils for a more balanced flavor.

Olive Oil Substitute for Salad Dressing

Other olive oil substitutes

2Avocado Oil

3Grapeseed Oil

4Canola Oil

5Sesame Oil

6Hemp Oil