Blackberry Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe
This vibrant Blackberry Balsamic Vinaigrette blends fresh blackberries with tangy balsamic vinegar and a hint of lemon to create a flavorful, fruity dressing perfect for salads. The Dijon mustard and spices balance the sweetness and acidity, while extra virgin olive oil adds smoothness and richness. Ideal for enhancing greens, fruits, and nuts in your favorite salads.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 minutes
- Total Time: 8 minutes
- Yield: About 1 3/4 cups vinaigrette 1x
- Category: Dressing
- Method: Stovetop and emulsifying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Vinaigrette Ingredients
- 1¼ cups fresh blackberries, rinsed and dried
- ½ cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2½ teaspoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¾ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 cup extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
- Combine ingredients except oil: In a small saucepan over low heat, add blackberries, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, sugar, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Stir occasionally and cook gently just until the sugar, salt, and mustard dissolve, about 3 minutes, ensuring the mixture is slightly warm.
- Macerate the blackberries: Remove the saucepan from heat. Use the back of a fork to gently mash the blackberries, leaving some pieces intact to add texture and bursts of berry flavor in the dressing.
- Emulsify with olive oil: Gradually whisk in the extra virgin olive oil until the vinaigrette is fully emulsified and smooth. Alternatively, transfer the mixture to a large jar, add the oil, seal tightly, and shake vigorously until blended.
- Cool and store: Let the vinaigrette reach room temperature, or chill it in the refrigerator before serving to allow flavors to meld. Use within a week for best taste.
Notes
- Use fresh blackberries for the best flavor and natural sweetness.
- This vinaigrette pairs well with mixed greens, goat cheese, nuts, and fruits like pears or apples.
- Shake well before each use as separation may occur.
- Store refrigerated in a sealed container; bring to room temperature before serving if chilled.
- Adjust cayenne pepper amount to taste for desired spiciness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons (30 ml)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 1.8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 0.2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: blackberry vinaigrette, balsamic vinaigrette, fruit salad dressing, homemade salad dressing, berry dressing, healthy vinaigrette
