Balsamic Salad Dressing
A versatile balsamic salad dressing with rich olive oil, tangy balsamic vinegar, fresh garlic, and herbs, perfect for salads, pasta, and more, offering bold, savory flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix in a glass container all the ingredients except the garlic.
- Peel the garlic and carefully score the cloves on all sides with a sharp knife.
- Drop the scored garlic into the glass container with the other ingredients.
- Shake well for the best flavor and let sit overnight.
- Do not store in the refrigerator.
- Leave the garlic cloves in the container for a stronger garlic flavor.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try using high-quality extra virgin olive oil and aged balsamic vinegar. If you prefer a milder garlic taste, consider using roasted garlic instead of raw. Fresh herbs such as oregano or thyme can be substituted for basil. To enhance the sweetness, add a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup if desired. This dressing is perfect for drizzling over Mediterranean recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This balsamic salad dressing is ideal for drizzling over fresh salads, roasted vegetables, or grilled meats. It pairs beautifully with Marinated Chevre (Goat Cheese) or as a dip for fresh bread. Consider serving it alongside a light appetizer like Tuscan Bean Dip for a delightful meal. It also enhances the flavors of grain salads or quinoa bowls.
Storage & Reheating
Store the balsamic dressing in an airtight glass container at room temperature. Avoid refrigeration as it may alter the flavor and consistency. The dressing can be kept for up to two weeks, allowing the garlic to infuse the flavors. Just remember to give it a good shake before each use to mix the ingredients.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Balsamic Salad Dressing contains roughly 32 calories, with 2g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (34% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 594mg per serving (26% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of vinegar for this dressing?
Yes, you can substitute balsamic vinegar with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar for a different flavor profile. Each will impart its unique taste, so choose based on your preference. Just remember that balsamic vinegar adds a sweet richness that may not be replicated with other vinegars.
How long can I store the dressing with the garlic cloves?
The dressing can be stored for up to two weeks at room temperature with the garlic cloves. The garlic will infuse its flavor into the dressing over time, creating a deliciously robust taste. If you notice any off smells or changes in appearance, it's best to discard it.
Is this dressing suitable for vegan diets?
Absolutely! This balsamic salad dressing is vegan-friendly as it contains no animal products. It’s a simple yet flavorful option for anyone following a vegan diet. Use it to dress salads, drizzle over roasted veggies, or as a marinade for grilled tofu or tempeh.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).