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Balsamic Vinaigrette Dressing: 5 Amazing Ways It Will Transform Your Salads Perfectly

Perfect Balsamic Vinaigrette


  • Author: Erin
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 1 cup (16 servings) 1x
  • Diet: Vegan

Description

Master the art of creating silky, restaurant-quality balsamic vinaigrette at home with this foolproof recipe. This versatile dressing combines the perfect balance of tangy balsamic vinegar, fruity olive oil, and aromatic seasonings to create a thick, creamy emulsion that elevates any salad from ordinary to extraordinary. With proper technique, you’ll achieve that coveted creamy consistency that coats greens beautifully and stays perfectly mixed.


Ingredients

Scale
  • Core Components:
  • ¾ cup (180ml) extra virgin olive oil
  • ¼ cup (60ml) high-quality balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ teaspoon sea salt
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Optional Additions:
  • 1 tablespoon fresh herbs (basil, oregano, or thyme)
  • 1 teaspoon shallot, finely minced

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Base: In a medium mixing bowl, combine balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Whisk thoroughly until honey dissolves completely and mixture is uniform.
  2. Create the Perfect Emulsion: Slowly drizzle olive oil while whisking continuously in circular motions. Start very slowly (drop by drop) for the first few tablespoons, then gradually increase to a thin stream.
  3. Achieve Creamy Consistency: Continue whisking for 2-3 minutes until vinaigrette appears thick and creamy. Test consistency – it should coat the back of a spoon lightly and stay mixed for several minutes.
  4. Season and Rest: Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Add fresh herbs or minced shallot if using. Let rest for 10-15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  5. Final Preparation: Whisk again before serving to re-emulsify if needed. Store in an airtight container in refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Notes

Pro Tips for Success: Temperature matters – use room temperature ingredients for better emulsification. If ingredients are cold, let them sit out for 15-20 minutes. Emulsification Technique: Add oil very slowly at first (drop by drop) and maintain constant whisking motion. If separation occurs, start over with a small amount in a clean bowl. Quality Indicators: A good emulsion should be thick, creamy, and stay mixed for several minutes. A poor emulsion will be thin, separate immediately, and have an oily surface. Storage: Refrigerate in airtight container for up to 2 weeks. Bring to room temperature and whisk before using.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Condiment
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 tablespoon (1/16th of recipe)
  • Calories: 95
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 45mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 1g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: balsamic vinaigrette, homemade salad dressing, emulsified vinaigrette, olive oil dressing