Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe
Introduction
This simple balsamic vinaigrette is a versatile dressing that brightens any salad with its perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and savory flavors. Made with pantry staples, it’s quick to whip up and easy to customize to your taste.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (whole grain or seeded preferred)
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 4 tablespoons honey
- Kosher salt, to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, Dijon mustard, balsamic vinegar, and honey. Add a pinch of kosher salt.
- Step 2: Whisk everything together vigorously until the vinaigrette is fully emulsified and smooth.
- Step 3: Taste the dressing and adjust the flavors as needed. Add a tablespoon of boiled water if it’s too thick, more Dijon mustard for pepperiness, extra honey for sweetness, or another splash of balsamic for tang. Whisk in more salt if it tastes flat.
- Step 4: Use the vinaigrette immediately or transfer it to a jar with a lid and refrigerate for up to two weeks. Shake well before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For a sharper flavor, substitute apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar for balsamic.
- Add a minced garlic clove or fresh herbs like thyme or basil for extra aroma.
- Use maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan-friendly option.
- Let the dressing sit for 10 minutes before use to allow flavors to meld.
Storage
Store the dressing in a sealed jar in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Always shake well before each use as ingredients may separate over time. Serve chilled or at room temperature for best flavor.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this vinaigrette ahead of time?
Yes, it keeps well for up to two weeks refrigerated. Just give it a good shake or whisk before using.
What salads pair best with balsamic vinaigrette?
This dressing complements mixed greens, spinach salads, roasted vegetable salads, and even grain bowls. It’s especially delicious with ingredients like goat cheese, nuts, and fresh berries.
PrintBalsamic Vinaigrette Recipe
A simple and versatile balsamic vinaigrette made with extra virgin olive oil, Dijon mustard, balsamic vinegar, and honey, balanced with a touch of kosher salt. This dressing can be quickly whisked together, adjusted to your taste preferences, and stored for up to two weeks, perfect for salads or as a flavorful marinade.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: About 3/4 cup (6 servings) 1x
- Category: Dressing
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (whole grain or seeded recommended)
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 4 tablespoons honey
- Kosher salt, to taste
Instructions
- Whisk ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the extra virgin olive oil, Dijon mustard, balsamic vinegar, and honey. Add a pinch of kosher salt and whisk thoroughly until the vinaigrette is fully emulsified and smooth.
- Taste and adjust: Sample the dressing and adjust flavors as desired. If the vinaigrette is too thick, add one tablespoon of boiled water to loosen the consistency. For more peppery notes, add additional Dijon mustard. Increase honey for sweetness or balsamic vinegar for a more tart flavor. Add a little more salt if the dressing tastes flat.
- Use or store: Use the vinaigrette immediately on your salad or store it in a sealed jar in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Shake well before each use to recombine the ingredients.
Notes
- If the vinaigrette separates in the fridge, shaking or stirring vigorously will re-emulsify it.
- Whole grain or seeded Dijon mustard adds a nice texture and depth of flavor but smooth Dijon works as well.
- Adjust honey and vinegar quantities to suit your preferred balance between sweetness and acidity.
- This dressing doubles well if making larger batches for meal prep.
- Use boiled water to safely dilute without affecting taste.
Keywords: balsamic vinaigrette, salad dressing, homemade vinaigrette, easy dressing, balsamic vinegar, honey mustard dressing
