Balsamic Vinaigrette
A vibrant balsamic vinaigrette with garlic, Dijon mustard, and fresh parsley, perfect for salads and marinades, adding a tangy and herbaceous flavor to any dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place all ingredients except parsley in a blender.
- Blend for 2 minutes or until emulsified.
- Stir in chopped parsley.
- Use immediately or refrigerate up to 3 days.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, finely chop the garlic before blending. You can substitute red wine vinegar for balsamic if you prefer a lighter flavor. If you're looking for a lighter option, consider using less oil or replacing some of it with water. Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can also be added for extra flavor, making it perfect for Mediterranean recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This vinaigrette is perfect for drizzling over Salata (Mixed Green Salad) or grilled vegetables. It also pairs beautifully with Green Beans With Garlic Saute or as a marinade for chicken or tofu in vegan recipes. Serve alongside crusty bread to soak up any extra dressing.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover balsamic vinaigrette in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Before using, give it a good shake or stir to re-emulsify, as separation is normal. Avoid freezing, as the oil may change texture and flavor upon thawing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Balsamic Vinaigrette contains roughly 705 calories, with 58g protein, 92g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (391% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (223% of the Daily Value), and iron (222% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 make this vinaigrette ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the vinaigrette up to 3 days in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and give it a good shake before using. This allows the flavors to meld nicely.
What can I use if I don't have Dijon mustard?
If you don't have Dijon mustard, you can substitute with yellow mustard or even a bit of honey for sweetness. Just keep in mind that this will alter the flavor slightly, but it will still work well in the vinaigrette.
How can I adjust the tanginess of the vinaigrette?
To adjust the tanginess, simply modify the amount of balsamic vinegar. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the vinegar by a tablespoon. Alternatively, you can add a touch of honey or maple syrup to balance the acidity.
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).