This Strawberry Balsamic Vinaigrette brings together the sweet taste of strawberries and the tangy zing of balsamic. It’s simple to make and perfect for salads!
I love drizzling this on fresh spinach salads or even grilled veggies for an extra pop! Just promise me you’ll keep a spare bottle in the fridge—it disappears quickly! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Strawberries: Fresh, ripe strawberries are key for this vinaigrette. If they’re out of season, you can use frozen strawberries; just thaw and drain them to lessen the water content.
Balsamic Vinegar: This adds a rich tang to the dressing. If you’re looking for a substitute, red or white wine vinegar can work, though the flavor will change a bit. So keep that in mind!
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil provides a nice flavor balance. If you prefer, avocado oil or a light vegetable oil can be used. Opt for oils with mild flavors to let the strawberries shine.
Honey: Honey adds sweetness, but if you want a vegan version, maple syrup is an excellent choice. Agave syrup works well too if you have it on hand.
Dijon Mustard: This ingredient gives a little kick and helps emulsify the vinaigrette. If you don’t have Dijon, any mustard you enjoy will do, but avoid sweet ones for this recipe.
How Do You Achieve a Smooth Vinaigrette?
Blending your vinaigrette well is key to getting a smooth texture and balanced flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with the strawberries, balsamic vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard in the blender. Blend until smooth.
- While blending, slowly pour in the olive oil. This helps emulsify it, combining the oil and vinegar without separating. It’s all about that steady stream!
- After blending, taste it! Add salt and pepper as needed to enhance that delicious flavor.
Let the vinaigrette sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes—it really helps the flavors come together! Enjoy it over your favorite salad for a refreshing taste!
How to Make Strawberry Balsamic Vinaigrette
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and at least 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. So, you’re looking at around 40 minutes in total. Just blend, season, and let it cool for the best flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Blend the Base Ingredients:
Start by placing the sliced strawberries, balsamic vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), and Dijon mustard into a blender or food processor. Blend everything together until you have a smooth mixture. This will give you a lovely fruity base for your vinaigrette!
2. Emulsify with Olive Oil:
While the blender is still running, slowly pour in the olive oil. This is important because it helps to emulsify the dressing, making it creamy and well-combined. Blend until the vinaigrette is smooth and fully mixed.
3. Season to Taste:
Once blended, take a moment to taste your vinaigrette. Add salt and pepper according to your preference. Feel free to adjust the sweetness with a bit more honey or honey alternative if you like it sweeter!
4. Chill Before Serving:
Transfer the vinaigrette to a jar or a container. Let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This waiting time really allows the flavors to blend beautifully!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Your strawberry balsamic vinaigrette is ready to be enjoyed! Drizzle it over your favorite salad—like spinach, mixed greens, or a strawberry spinach salad. Enjoy the fresh and tangy flavor!
Feel free to make any adjustments to suit your taste!
Can I Use Frozen Strawberries for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw them first to get the best flavor and consistency. Thaw frozen strawberries overnight in the fridge or quickly by placing them in a bowl of warm water for about 10-15 minutes. Pat them dry before blending to avoid extra moisture in your vinaigrette.
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness of the Vinaigrette?
If you prefer a sweeter vinaigrette, simply add an extra tablespoon of honey or maple syrup. For a less sweet version, reduce the honey to taste. Remember to blend and taste as you go to find the perfect balance for your palate!
How Should I Store Leftover Vinaigrette?
Store any leftover strawberry balsamic vinaigrette in a sealed jar or airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. Just give it a good shake or stir before using, as it may separate over time.
Can I Substitute the Balsamic Vinegar?
Absolutely! If you don’t have balsamic vinegar on hand, try using red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar for a different yet delicious flavor profile. Just remember that the taste will vary slightly, so start with a smaller amount and adjust to your liking!
