Homemade Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe
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Homemade Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe
Description
The Homemade Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe combines finely diced shallots and fresh basil with Dijon mustard, sugar, and balsamic vinegar to provide a rich base of flavor. Gradually whisking in neutral oil maintains an emulsified and smooth texture. The mixture is seasoned with salt and black pepper according to taste. The fresh basil adds an herbaceous note which can be adjusted with thyme or rosemary. The vinaigrette offers a balance of tangy acidity from balsamic vinegar with subtle sweetness.
The preparation is straightforward, requiring whisking to emulsify and incorporates aromatic herbs and shallots for depth. Its texture is smooth and pourable, making it convenient for salads or as a marinade. The vinegar provides brightness while the sugar tempers acidity with a mild sweetness.
This vinaigrette can be made up to three days in advance to let the flavors meld. Storing it in a covered container refrigerated preserves freshness for up to seven days but it is not suitable for freezing. Variations include substituting whole grain mustard or sweeteners like honey or agave, and experimenting with different mild oils to tailor the flavor. Fresh basil can be swapped for dried herbs as desired, and a stand mixer with a whisk attachment can aid emulsification for larger batches.
Ingredients
- ½ shallot peeled and small diced
- 8-10 basil finely minced fresh leaves
- 1 ½ teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- ¾ cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 cups neutral cooking oil generic cooking oil
- salt to taste
- black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Add the shallots, basil, mustard, sugar, and balsamic vinegar to a medium-size bowl.
- Using a whisk, whisk the ingredients together while slowly drizzling in the oil to make sure it stays emulsified.
- Finish by seasoning it with salt and pepper and serve.
Notes
- Prepare the vinaigrette up to three days in advance to enhance flavor melding.
- Store covered in the refrigerator for up to seven days; do not freeze.
- Substitute Dijon mustard with whole grain mustard if preferred.
- You may replace sugar with honey or agave for sweetness.
- Use a mild virgin olive oil or a neutral oil like sunflower oil for best results, or blend oils.
- Fresh basil can be replaced with thyme or rosemary, or dried basil at 1.5 teaspoons if fresh is unavailable.
- A stand mixer with a whisk attachment can be used for easier emulsification.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 12Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 56 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 56kcal | 3% |
| Carbohydrates | 5g | 2% |
| Protein | 1g | 2% |
| Fat | 4g | 6% |
| Saturated Fat | 1g | 5% |
| Sodium | 11mg | 0% |
| Potassium | 21mg | 0% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sugar | 4g | 8% |
| Vitamin A | 14IU | 0% |
| Vitamin C | 1mg | 1% |
| Calcium | 4mg | 0% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.