Basil French Dressing
A vibrant, tangy French dressing with basil and garlic, perfect for salads or as a flavorful dip, appealing to those who enjoy fresh, savory dressings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a blender.
- Blend until smooth and garlic is minced.
- Chill in cruet or covered container before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a tablespoon of Greek yogurt or silken tofu. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the garlic or substitute with garlic powder. You can also use apple cider vinegar instead of red wine vinegar for a different taste profile. Fresh basil can replace dried basil for a more vibrant flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This Basil French Dressing is perfect drizzled over mixed greens or as a tangy dip for fresh vegetables. It pairs beautifully with Easy Munchy Mix for a delightful appetizer. Try it on grilled chicken or fish for added flavor, and serve it alongside Sauteed Mustard Greens for a complete meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. The flavors will continue to meld as it chills. Shake or stir well before using, as the ingredients may separate over time. Avoid freezing, as the oil may separate upon thawing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Basil French Dressing contains roughly 43 calories, with 1g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (43% 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 fresh basil instead of dried?
Yes, you can use fresh basil for a more intense flavor. Use about three times the amount of fresh basil as dried, since dried herbs are more concentrated. Just chop the fresh basil finely before adding it to the blender.
What can I substitute for the red wine vinegar?
If you don't have red wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar can be good alternatives. They will offer a slightly different flavor but will still provide the acidity needed for the dressing.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the dressing?
To balance the sweetness, you can add more salt or vinegar if it's too sweet for your taste. Alternatively, reduce the sugar amount or substitute with honey or agave nectar for a more natural sweetness.
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).