Balsamic Vinaigrette Dressing
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
1 min
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Cook Time
1 min
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Total Time
2 mins
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Servings
8 servings (2 tbsp each)
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Calories
130 kcal
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Cuisine
American
Balsamic Vinaigrette Dressing
Description
The Balsamic Vinaigrette Dressing uses high-quality olive or avocado oil combined with balsamic vinegar to form a classic vinaigrette base. Dijon mustard is added for a subtle tang and emulsification, with optional honey to gently sweeten the dressing. Salt and black pepper are adjusted to taste, enhancing the overall flavor.
Mildly thickened by mustard and balanced between acidity and sweetness, the dressing coats greens evenly and complements salads featuring fruits like apples or berries. The combination of flavors provides a nuanced balance rather than overpowering any ingredient in the salad.
Stored refrigerated and shaken or whisked before use, this vinaigrette keeps for up to four days. It yields about 1 cup, enough to dress roughly 10 to 12 cups of salad. The recipe is adaptable, with the option to increase mustard for more bite or use spicy brown mustard for a different flavor profile.
When using this dressing, freshly ground salt and pepper provide the best seasoning. Maple syrup can substitute honey for those preferring a different sweetener. The recipe notes the ideal serving quantity of 2 tablespoons per salad serving to achieve balanced flavor without overdressing.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup olive oil or avocado oil
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard or more to taste (see note 1)
- 1 teaspoon honey optional (see note 2)
- salt to taste, freshly ground
- black pepper to taste, freshly ground
Instructions
- In a mason jar with a tight-fitting lid, or in a bowl, add olive oil, balsamic vinegar, mustard, honey (if using), and salt and pepper to taste (I like 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper). Shake or whisk to combine. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Notes
- Adjust Dijon mustard quantity to enhance flavor and emulsification as desired.
- Add honey or maple syrup for sweetness, especially when salads include fruits like apples or berries.
- Store the vinaigrette covered in the refrigerator and use within 4 days for best freshness.
- Yields about 1 cup, sufficient to dress 10 to 12 cups of salad, using approximately 2 tablespoons per serving.
- Freshly ground salt and pepper improve flavor balance in the dressing.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 8servings (2 tbsp each)
Amount Per Serving
Calories 130 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 2 tbsp | |
| Calories | 130kcal | 7% |
| Carbohydrates | 2g | 1% |
| Protein | 0.1g | 0% |
| Fat | 14g | 22% |
| Saturated Fat | 2g | 10% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1g | 6% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 10g | 50% |
| Sodium | 16mg | 1% |
| Potassium | 11mg | 0% |
| Fiber | 0.1g | 0% |
| Sugar | 2g | 4% |
| Vitamin A | 1IU | 0% |
| Vitamin C | 0.01mg | 0% |
| Calcium | 3mg | 0% |
| Iron | 0.2mg | 1% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.