Balsamic Vinaigrette

Balsamic Vinaigrette comes together in minutes with simple pantry staples, to create a delicious homemade salad dressing that is perfectly seasoned, balanced, and adds so much flavor to a variety of dishes. 

Homemade Balsamic Vinaigrette is one of the most versatile salad dressing recipes. From using to dress side salads, Tossed Greek Salad, or Italian Pasta Salad to marinating meat, to using to dip freshly baked Homemade Italian Bread, this Balsamic Dressing will be your go-to salad dressing.

Jump to:

• Homemade is Best
• How To Make Homemade Balsamic Dressing
• How to Store Balsamic Vinaigrette
• How to Serve Balsamic Vinaigrette
• Optional Additions
• More Homemade Salad Dressing Recipes
• Recipe
• Comments

Homemade is Best

I cannot remember the last time I bought Balsamic Dressing. It is so incredibly easy to make at home and tastes so much better, that Homemade Balsamic Vinaigrette has been a staple at my house for decades.

While Balsamic dressing doesn't get a lot of attention, it is one of the most versatile, flavorful salad dressings out there--when prepared correctly!

It is all about the balance of flavor when making salad dressings. Maple syrup brings out balsamic's sweet notes, while the mustard plays up its acidity. Garlic brings a punch of flavor, and the olive oil rounds out the flavors. It is the perfect balance of sweet, savory, tart, and acidic.

How To Make Homemade Balsamic Dressing

Making homemade dressing is as easy as combining all the ingredients in a glass jar and shaking well. But let me give you a few tips.

• First, add the balsamic, mustard, maple syrup, and salt and pepper to a jar. Shake or whisk well to incorporate the mustard and maple syrup throughout the balsamic vinegar.
• Using a Microplane, grate 1 clove of fresh garlic into the dressing. This helps the garlic to dissolve into the dressing. And then give it a good shake again.
• Pour in the oil. Place lid on the jar and shake well (alternatively, you can slowly whisk in the olive oil while pouring into the dressing.)

How to Store Balsamic Vinaigrette

Balsamic vinegar will keep in an airtight glass container in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. Just be sure to shake well before each use.

How to Serve Balsamic Vinaigrette

Think beyond just salads for using this balsamic vinaigrette--it truly is so versatile in how it can be used.

• As a dip for warm Italian Bread.
• Marinate chicken or pork in balsamic dressing for 3-12 hours before grilling or baking.
• Drizzle Antipasto Skewers with Balsamic Dressing.
• Use to dress Caprese Pasta Salad.
• Drizzle over fresh tomatoes and mozzarella.
• As a dressing for salads.
• Add to Mediterranean Couscous Salad or Chickpea Salad to revive or add moisture.

Optional Additions

For a bit more flavor, add in:

• ¼ teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat
• ½ teaspoon of dried oregano for an herby punch of flavor

More Homemade Salad Dressing Recipes

• Easy Homemade Ranch Dressing
• Easy Poppy Seed Dressing
• Homemade Raspberry Dressing
• Italian Dressing from The Whole Cook

If you enjoyed this simple recipe for Balsamic Salad Dressing, I would love for you to leave a comment and review below. 

Recipe