Salad dressing is a great thing to start making yourself. Not only will you save money, but the fresh ingredients will make it taste much better. Even better, store-bought dressings can be free of vegetable oils and other additives.
This balsamic vinaigrette is one of my favorite homemade salad dressings. It’s really easy to make at home and tastes great!
High quality homemade balsamic vinaigrette
Balsamic vinegar was a familiar taste and a love story for me. I didn’t like it when I was younger, but now it’s one of my favorite foods. It also has an incredibly unique history.
True balsamic vinegar is aged for at least 12 years. It is a thick grape juice made from unfermented grape juice. Balsamic vinaigrette is aged in up to five different types of casks, most of which are more than half a century old. It is produced only in the Modena and Reggio regions of Italy.
Balsamic vinegar made under these strict guidelines is “Aceto Balsamic Tradicionale” It is an Italian label and is considered a top vinegar.
Most balsamic vinegars on store shelves are made by a similar process but aged for a shorter time. It is also made from reduced grape juice, but is only aged for at least three years. This type of balsamic vinegar can be easily found in most places.
Some products labeled “balsamic vinegar” in stores are actually cider vinegar or other inexpensive vinegars that are colored to look like real balsamic vinegar. Some products may contain artificial colors and flavors, so check labels and look for high-quality brands.
Balsamic Dressing Ingredients
Turn over a bottle of store-bought salad dressing and you’ll find ingredients like soybean oil, corn syrup, and even food coloring. This recipe is simple and much tastier than many store brands! We start with balsamic vinegar (of course!) for acidity to balance out the honey. Some recipes use sugar or maple syrup as a sweetener instead.
Other common ingredients include herbs such as oregano and shallots for flavor. I use basil and minced garlic cloves. Dijon mustard adds flavor and a hint of spiciness, while heart-healthy olive oil makes up the dressing base.
How to use Balsamic Vinaigrette Dressing
There’s an old standby in green salads, but balsamic vinaigrette isn’t just for lettuce! The taste of Spinach Salad with Goat Cheese, Strawberries, and Pecans is truly amazing. It also makes a great marinade for meat. Sprinkle it on grilled or stir-fried vegetables to add flavor. It can also be used as a pasta salad sauce. For a delicious gluten-free option, use rice pasta.
However you use it, balsamic vinaigrette is an easy and delicious way to dress up any meal!
Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe
This simple balsamic vinaigrette can be made in minutes to add flavor to salads or vegetables.
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Place all ingredients in a small jar, cover, and shake until well mixed.
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Use it on salads, vegetables, or as a marinade for meat, as desired.
Nutrition Facts
Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe
Serving Size (1 TBSP)
calorie 74
calories from fat 63
% Daily Value*
province 7g11%
1g saturated fat6%
1g polyunsaturated fat
5g monounsaturated fat
sodium 83mg4%
potassium 11mg0%
carbohydrate 2g1%
0.1 g fiber0%
2g sugar2%
protein 0.1g0%
Vitamin A 1IU0%
Vitamin C 0.1mg0%
calcium 4mg0%
steel 0.2mg1%
*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Not just salads! Drizzle this vinaigrette over grilled vegetables.
More Salad Dressing Recipes
Looking for a new recipe to try for your next salad? Here are a few!
What is your favorite way to make balsamic vinaigrette? Let us know by leaving a comment!
