Description
The perfect balance of tangy and sweet, this homemade balsamic vinaigrette transforms ordinary greens into culinary masterpieces with just a few simple ingredients and minutes of your time.
Ingredients
Scale
- ½ cup high-quality balsamic vinegar (aged at least 3 years for optimal flavor depth)
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil (preferably cold-pressed)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (acts as an emulsifier)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (for natural sweetness)
- 1 small shallot, finely minced (about 2 tablespoons)
- 1 clove garlic, minced or pressed
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Optional: 1 teaspoon fresh herbs (thyme, oregano, or basil work beautifully)
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine the balsamic vinegar and minced shallots. Allow this mixture to sit for 2-3 minutes to mellow the sharpness of the shallots.
- Add the Dijon mustard and honey (or chosen sweetener) to the vinegar mixture. Whisk thoroughly until completely smooth.
- Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously to create a proper emulsion.
- Add the minced garlic, salt, pepper, and optional fresh herbs. Whisk thoroughly to combine.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- For best results, allow the dressing to rest for 30 minutes before serving to develop flavors.
Notes
- For a vegan version, replace honey with maple syrup
- Substitute shallot with 1 tablespoon finely minced red onion if needed
- For a smoother result, combine all ingredients except oil in a blender, then stream in oil while blending
- Allow the dressing to return to room temperature before serving if refrigerated
- Store in a glass container with an airtight seal for up to 2 weeks
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dressing
- Method: Whisking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 85
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Protein: 0.2g
Keywords: balsamic vinaigrette, homemade salad dressing, balsamic dressing, healthy dressing