Garlic Basil Dressing
A versatile garlic basil dressing with a tangy, sweet, and herbal flavor profile, perfect for salads, vegetables, or as a marinade for Mediterranean-inspired dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a dressing decanter or jar, warm the vinegar.
- Add sugar and salt to the warm vinegar.
- Stir until the sugar dissolves.
- Add remaining ingredients in order listed and shake well.
Tips & Substitutions
For a sweeter dressing, consider increasing the sugar slightly. If you prefer a tangier flavor, substitute apple cider vinegar for some or all of the vinegar. For added depth, use fresh herbs instead of dried basil. If you don't have coarse ground pepper, regular black pepper works fine, though the texture will differ. This dressing is versatile and can be adjusted to fit Mediterranean recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This Garlic Basil Dressing is perfect for drizzling over crisp salads or grilled vegetables. It pairs beautifully with the Orange Artichoke Layered Salad, enhancing its flavors. Try it as a marinade for chicken or fish, or use it to dress a pasta salad for a delightful twist. For a fresh side, serve it with a Watermelon Salad With Watercress.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. The flavors will meld and enhance over time. Shake well before each use, as separation may occur. If you find the dressing too thick after refrigeration, allow it to sit at room temperature for a few minutes to loosen up before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Garlic Basil Dressing contains roughly 177 calories, with 1g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1755mg per serving (76% 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 dried basil instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use dried basil in this recipe. However, fresh basil tends to have a brighter flavor. If using dried, a good rule of thumb is to use one-third of the amount called for fresh, as dried herbs are more concentrated.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the dressing?
You can easily adjust the sweetness by adding more sugar if you prefer a sweeter dressing or reducing it for a tangier flavor. Taste the dressing after mixing and adjust gradually to find your perfect balance.
Is this dressing suitable for vegan diets?
Yes, this Garlic Basil Dressing is completely vegan as it contains no animal products. It's a great option for those following vegan recipes. Enjoy it on salads or as a flavorful dipping sauce!
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).