Is there anything more delightful than a homemade dressing that effortlessly elevates your salad game? This white balsamic vinaigrette recipe is like a culinary magic trick—simple ingredients transforming into a symphony of flavors. Last weekend, while juggling a dozen other things, I whipped up a batch and was reminded why it’s my go-to. The tangy-sweet notes, reminiscent of an autumn afternoon, make every bite a little celebration.
Steps
- In a mixing bowl, combine white balsamic vinegar and extra virgin olive oil. Stir them together to start the base of your vinaigrette.
- Add honey and Dijon mustard to the mixture for sweetness and flavor. Stir these ingredients until they begin to blend smoothly.
- Sprinkle in Italian seasoning and dried garlic powder to enhance the dressing’s taste. Mix until all components are well combined.
- Season the vinaigrette with salt and pepper to your preference. Whisk everything together until the dressing is smooth and fully emulsified.
- Transfer the vinaigrette into a clean jar with a tight seal. Store it in the refrigerator for up to five days, using it as needed for salads or marinades.
Ingredients
- ? cup white balsamic vinegar
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons mild, runny honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Nutritional Values
Calories: 1152 kcal | Carbohydrates: 48 g | Fat: 96 g | Sodium: 80 mg | Potassium: 80 mg | Sugar: 32 g | Calcium: 32 mg | Iron: 1.6 mg
FAQ
- How long can I store White Balsamic Vinaigrette in the fridge?
- You can store the White Balsamic Vinaigrette in a clean, tightly sealed jar in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It’s great for meal prep and usually lasts for an entire work week.
- Can I use a different type of mustard in this recipe?
- Yes, you can use a different type of mustard. While smooth Dijon mustard is preferred, whole grain mustard or yellow mustard can also be used; however, they may slightly alter the flavor.
- Why do you recommend using garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
- Garlic powder is recommended because it provides a consistent flavor that doesn’t intensify over time like fresh garlic does. If you prefer using fresh garlic, you can do so, but be aware that its intensity can increase as it sits in the vinaigrette.
- What type of honey works best in this vinaigrette?
- A mild, runny honey is ideal for this dressing, as it mixes smoothly with the other ingredients. A firm or crystallized honey can be difficult to incorporate evenly.
- What kind of salads pair well with this vinaigrette?
- This versatile vinaigrette complements a variety of salads, including spinach salads with fresh berries, tomato cucumber salads, and spinach avocado salads with berries.
Tips
- Choose the Right Honey: Opt for a mild, liquid honey to ensure it mixes smoothly into the vinaigrette. Thick or crystallized honey can be difficult to blend evenly with the other ingredients.
- Customize Your Mustard Choice: While Dijon mustard is recommended for its smooth texture, feel free to experiment with whole grain or yellow mustard for a different flavor profile. Just be aware that each type will slightly alter the taste of the dressing.
- Storage Tip: Store your vinaigrette in a clean, tightly sealed jar in the fridge, where it can last up to five days. Consider using Weck jars with glass lids, as they do not corrode like metal lids when exposed to acidic dressings.
- Versatile Salad Pairing: This vinaigrette complements a variety of salads, from a simple cucumber and tomato mix to a more elaborate spinach and berry salad. Experiment with different combinations to keep your meals interesting.
Equipment
- Whisk – While many people have a whisk at home, for those who don’t, it’s an essential tool for making dressings and could be purchased.
- Small Weck Jars – Specifically mentioned in the recipe for storing the vinaigrette, these might not be common in all households and can be bought online.
- Ball Jars – Used for storing dry ingredients as mentioned, though they are common, some might need to purchase them.
