Balsamic Vinaigrette

Growing up, our salads were pretty simple—crisp lettuce, fresh garden tomatoes and cucumbers, and maybe a handful of black olives and shredded cheese if Mom was feeling fancy. But what truly made those salads shine was the dressing. None of that store-bought salad dressing nonsense. My mom kept a mason jar of homemade balsamic vinaigrette in the fridge at all times, ready to drizzle over garden salads or use as a last-minute marinade for grilled chicken. It was bold, velvety, and had just the right touch of sweetness to keep you coming back for more.

This homemade balsamic vinaigrette recipe is similar to my mom's. It’s easy, it’s rich, and it’ll make even the simplest of greens taste like something special.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect Balance of Flavors – The sweet balsamic vinegar, tangy Dijon mustard, and hint of honey create a beautifully balanced dressing.
• Made with High-Quality Ingredients – No caramel color or additives—just real, fresh flavors.
• Versatile and Multi-Purpose – Use it on your favorite green salad, drizzle it over a caprese salad, or toss it with pasta salad for a flavor boost.
• Easy to Make – A good shake in a mason jar, and you’re done!

Equipment You’ll Need

• Mason Jar or Glass Jar with a Lid – Makes mixing and storing easy.
• Whisk or Small Bowl – If you prefer to mix by hand.
• Garlic Press or Microplane – For finely mincing the garlic clove.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

• Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Use high-quality for the best flavor.
• Aged Balsamic Vinegar – Dark, syrupy, and rich in flavor.
• Fresh Lemon Juice – Adds brightness and enhances the acidity.
• Honey – Balances out the tanginess with a touch of sweetness.
• Dijon Mustard – Helps emulsify the dressing while adding depth.
• Herbes de Provence – A blend of dried herbs that adds an aromatic touch.
• Garlic Clove – Fresh garlic gives the dressing a little kick.
• Kosher Salt & Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Essential for balancing flavors.

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How to Make Balsamic Vinaigrette

Mix the Dressing

• Pour all ingredients into a mason jar or small bowl.

Shake to Combine

• Secure the lid on the jar and give it a good shake until fully emulsified. If mixing in a bowl, whisk vigorously.

Taste and Adjust

• Dip a spoon in and taste. If you like a sweeter dressing, add a bit more honey. Need more tang? A splash more lemon juice will do the trick.

Serve and Store

Store in a glass jar in the refrigerator for up to one week. Shake before using.

Drizzle over your favorite green salad, caprese salad, or pasta salad.

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Chef Secrets & Tips

Balancing Flavors

• If the dressing is too acidic, add an extra teaspoon of honey to mellow it out.
• If it’s too sweet, a few drops of white balsamic vinegar can bring back some tang.

Ingredient Quality Matters

• Look for a high-quality aged balsamic vinegar with a natural caramel flavor—cheap versions can be overly sharp.
• Use extra virgin olive oil labeled “cold-pressed” for the best velvety texture. 

Troubleshooting & Fixes

• Dressing separated? Give it another good shake before serving.
• Too thick? Add a splash of water and mix.

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Serving Suggestions

• Toss with mixed greens, goat cheese, and candied pecans.
• Drizzle over a fresh tomato and mozzarella caprese salad.
• Use as a marinade for grilled chicken or roasted vegetables.
• Mix into pasta salads for an extra burst of flavor.

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Commonly Asked Questions

Can I use red wine vinegar instead of balsamic?
Yes! It will have a sharper taste but still work beautifully in this recipe.

How long does homemade balsamic vinaigrette last?
Stored in an airtight jar in the fridge, it will keep for about a week.

Can I make this dressing vegan?
Absolutely! Just swap out the honey for maple syrup or agave nectar.

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Storage & Reheating Tips

• Refrigeration: Store in a sealed glass jar for up to 7 days.
• Separation: Shake well before each use to re-emulsify the dressing.

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This easy balsamic vinaigrette recipe is a must-have in your kitchen. Whether you're tossing it into everyday salads, marinating chicken, or giving roasted veggies a little extra love, it's the kind of dressing that proves homemade is always better than store-bought dressing. A little sweet, a little tangy, and a whole lot of delicious!

More Salads and Dressings

If you love a good homemade dressing, there’s no reason to stop at balsamic vinaigrette. Elevate your salad game with these delicious options that bring fresh flavors and textures to your table. Whether you’re craving something creamy, tangy, or crisp, these recipes will add variety to your meals and make every bite a delight.