Easy Balsamic Vinaigrette
- PREP 10min
- TOTAL 10min
Homemade balsamic vinaigrette is a staple recipe in our house. We like vinegary dressings and use twice as much olive oil as vinegar. To make a less vinegary dressing, add more olive oil to taste. I like to add a little sweetener to the dressing. Maple syrup or honey is lovely, or add a little fruitiness with your favorite jam (strawberry jam is especially good). If you are using a thicker balsamic vinegar or one that is aged, it may already taste more sweet, so you may not need to add sweetener.
You Will Need
1/4 cup (60ml) balsamic vinegar
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon maple syrup, honey, or strawberry jam
1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
1/4 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
1/2 cup (120ml) extra-virgin olive oil, or more to taste
1 tablespoon mayonnaise, sour cream, or crème fraîche, optional to make creamy
Directions
Whisk vinegar, mustard, sweetener, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl until well blended.
While whisking, slowly stream in the olive oil until completely incorporated and the dressing has thickened.
Taste and then adjust with salt, pepper, olive oil, or sweetener as needed. To turn it into a creamy dressing, whisk in mayo (sour cream or crème fraîche).
Adam and Joanne's Tips
- Storing: Keep in an airtight container or jar for up to 1 week.
- How to make in jar or blender: Instead of whisking ingredients together, place all the ingredients in a screw-top jar and shake to combine. Or, use a blender. Add all ingredients to blender then blend until thick.
- Note about the vinegar: If you have really good quality balsamic vinegar, you might only need to add olive oil, salt, and pepper to make a delicious vinaigrette. It will naturally be thick and have a bit of sweetness. But most of us don’t use super pricey balsamic for everyday salads! So, for a more budget-friendly option, we use regular balsamic vinegar (around $15) and add a few things to boost the flavor. A touch of Dijon mustard adds complexity and a little brown sugar brings in some of that sweetness you find in those expensive bottles. This way, you get a delicious, well-rounded vinaigrette without breaking the bank.
- Nutritional information are estimates.