Basic Herb Vinaigrette
A versatile herb vinaigrette with garlic, mustard, and Italian herbs, perfect for salads and dressings, appealing to those who enjoy bold, flavorful accompaniments.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine garlic, Dijon mustard, red wine vinegar, vegetable oil, olive oil, and dried Italian herb blend in a blender.
- Let the mixture stand at room temperature for several hours to mellow the flavors.
- Store the vinaigrette covered in the refrigerator, and return to room temperature before using.
- Use this herb vinaigrette in Pasta Salad A La Greque.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance your Basic Herb Vinaigrette, consider using fresh herbs like basil or parsley instead of dried Italian herb blend for a brighter flavor. If you prefer a milder taste, reduce the garlic or substitute with shallots. For a gluten-free option, ensure your Dijon mustard is gluten-free. This vinaigrette is versatile and can be used in various Mediterranean recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This herb vinaigrette is perfect drizzled over salads like Zesty Vegetable Salad or used as a dressing for Pasta Salad A La Greque. It also pairs well with grilled vegetables or as a marinade for chicken. Experiment by adding it to roasted potatoes or even as a dip for fresh bread to elevate your meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store the vinaigrette in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. The flavors will continue to meld as it sits. Before using, bring it back to room temperature and shake well to recombine the oils and vinegar. If it thickens, let it sit out for a few minutes to loosen up.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Basic Herb Vinaigrette contains roughly 875 calories, with 2g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 96g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (136% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2326mg per serving (101% 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 different oils in the vinaigrette?
Absolutely! While olive oil provides a rich flavor, you can substitute with avocado oil or flaxseed oil for a different taste profile. Just keep in mind that the flavor of the oil will impact the overall taste of the vinaigrette.
How can I make this vinaigrette sweeter?
To add sweetness, consider whisking in a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup. This will balance the acidity of the vinegar and enhance the overall flavor. Just blend it well with the other ingredients to ensure it's fully incorporated.
Is this vinaigrette suitable for vegan diets?
Yes, the Basic Herb Vinaigrette is naturally vegan, as it contains no animal products. It's a great addition to a variety of vegan recipes, adding flavor to salads and roasted vegetables while keeping your meals plant-based.
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).