This light and tangy white balsamic vinaigrette is perfect for brightening up your salads. It mixes sweet balsamic vinegar with a bit of oil and seasoning for a refreshing taste!
I love how easy it is to whip up this dressing at home. Just shake it in a jar! It pairs wonderfully with greens, and you might end up drizzling it on everything! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
White Balsamic Vinegar: This gives a milder, sweeter flavor compared to regular balsamic vinegar. If you don’t have it, you can use apple cider vinegar as a substitute. It offers a nice tang without overwhelming the dressing.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil: This is the base of your vinaigrette, providing richness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using avocado oil. It has a similar texture but a milder flavor.
Dijon Mustard: This adds depth and helps emulsify the dressing. If you’re out, yellow mustard works too, but it will change the flavor slightly. Another option is to use tahini for a unique twist.
Honey or Maple Syrup: This adds a touch of sweetness that balances the acidity. If you’re avoiding sweeteners, you can skip this or use a dash of stevia or agave for a low-calorie option.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the dressing a punch. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can substitute, but use less since it’s more concentrated.
How Do I Make Sure the Dressing Emulsifies Properly?
Emulsifying oil and vinegar can be tricky, but here are some tips to get it right. The goal is to create a smooth mixture that doesn’t separate.
- Start with a medium bowl or jar. Add vinegar, mustard, honey, garlic, and oregano first – whisk these ingredients together well.
- When you start pouring in the olive oil, do it slowly! Drizzle it in while whisking continuously. This helps the oil mix with the vinegar.
- Keep whisking until the mixture is thick and creamy. If you see any separation, give it another quick whisk.
- Finally, season it with salt and pepper. Taste and adjust these as necessary before storing in the fridge.
How to Make White Balsamic Vinaigrette?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- ½ cup white balsamic vinegar
- 1 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional for sweetness)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and then you’ll want to refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend. So, plan for a total of about 40 minutes before you can enjoy your homemade vinaigrette!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base Ingredients:
Start by taking a medium bowl or a jar. Combine the white balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey (if you want a touch of sweetness), minced garlic, and dried oregano. If you’re using a jar, you can just seal it up and shake it later!
2. Whisk It Up:
Using a whisk, mix everything together until well combined. It should be smooth and creamy—this is the base of your vinaigrette!
3. Add the Olive Oil:
Now, it’s time to add the extra virgin olive oil. While you slowly drizzle the olive oil into the mixture, keep whisking continuously. This will help emulsify the dressing, making it nice and thick.
4. Season to Your Liking:
Once everything is combined, taste it! Add some salt and pepper to your personal preference. If you’d like it sweeter, you can also add more honey or maple syrup at this stage.
5. Chill Out & Store:
Transfer the vinaigrette into a jar or an airtight container if you haven’t already. Place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time is important as it helps the flavors meld beautifully.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Before serving, give the jar a good shake to mix everything up again. Your delicious white balsamic vinaigrette is now ready to dress your salads or drizzle over your favorite dishes! It can be stored in the fridge for up to a week, so enjoy it all week long!
Can I Substitute White Balsamic Vinegar with Another Vinegar?
Yes, you can substitute white balsamic vinegar with other vinegars like apple cider vinegar or champagne vinegar. However, keep in mind that the flavor will be slightly different. If using apple cider vinegar, you might want to add a bit more sweetness to balance its tanginess.
How to Adjust the Sweetness of the Vinaigrette?
If you prefer a sweeter vinaigrette, simply increase the amount of honey or maple syrup, adding it in small increments and tasting as you go. If you accidentally make it too sweet, adding a bit more vinegar can help balance it out.
Can I Make This Dressing Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! This vinaigrette can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just remember to give it a good shake or stir before using, as the ingredients may separate over time.
How to Store Leftover Vinaigrette?
Store any leftover vinaigrette in an airtight container or jar in the refrigerator. Make sure to label it with the date you made it, and try to use it within a week for the best flavor and freshness!
