Elevate your salads and marinades with a burst of flavor from this delightful Balsamic Vinaigrette with Herbs! In just 10 minutes, you can whip up a luscious dressing that transforms ordinary greens into a gourmet experience. Imagine the rich, tangy notes of balsamic vinegar harmonizing with the freshness of herbs and the subtle sweetness of honey—your taste buds will be dancing! Whether you're drizzling it over a crisp salad or using it to marinate your favorite proteins, this versatile vinaigrette is a must-have in your culinary repertoire. Ready to impress your family and friends? Let’s dive into this simple yet sophisticated recipe!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 1 cup
Ingredients
- Balsamic vinegar
- Olive oil
- Honey
- Dijon mustard
- Garlic, minced
- Fresh herbs (e.g., basil, oregano)
- Salt
- Pepper
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients and ensure they are at room temperature for optimal blending.
- In a medium-sized glass bowl or a mason jar with a tight-fitting lid, combine the minced garlic, Dijon mustard, and honey. Whisk or shake to blend thoroughly.
- Slowly drizzle the balsamic vinegar into the mixture while continuously whisking or shaking to create a smooth emulsion.
- Gradually add the olive oil in a steady stream, continuing to whisk or shake vigorously to ensure the ingredients are fully incorporated and the vinaigrette becomes thick and well-combined.
- Finely chop the fresh herbs, releasing their aromatic oils. Add the chopped herbs to the vinaigrette.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, adjusting the quantities to enhance the flavor profile.
- Taste the vinaigrette and adjust the balance of flavors by adding more vinegar for tanginess, honey for sweetness, or oil for smoothness as needed.
- Transfer the vinaigrette to a clean glass jar or bottle with a tight-sealing lid. Store in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.
- Before serving, allow the vinaigrette to come to room temperature and give it a good shake or whisk to re-emulsify the ingredients.
Tips
- Ingredient Temperature Matters: For the best results, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature. This helps them blend more smoothly, creating a perfect emulsion.
- Whisking Technique: When combining the balsamic vinegar and olive oil, whisk vigorously or shake the jar continuously. This not only mixes the ingredients but also helps to achieve that thick, creamy consistency.
- Herb Selection: Feel free to experiment with different fresh herbs! While basil and oregano are classic choices, try adding parsley, thyme, or even tarragon for a unique twist.
- Taste as You Go: Don’t hesitate to adjust the flavors! If you prefer a tangier dressing, add more balsamic vinegar. For a sweeter touch, a bit more honey can do wonders.
- Storage Tips: Store your vinaigrette in a clean glass jar with a tight-sealing lid. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to a week—just remember to give it a good shake before serving!
- Perfect Pairings: This vinaigrette is not just for salads! Use it as a marinade for grilled vegetables or meats, or drizzle it over roasted potatoes for an extra flavor boost.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 0g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
