If there’s one thing I can’t ever give up, it’s this light balsamic vinaigrette dressing. It’s truly the perfect addition to any salad.
The nice blend of sweet, tangy, bitter, and sour notes makes this dressing a favorite among salad enthusiasts. It’s versatile, refreshing, and elevates even the simplest greens into something special.
Since embarking on my wellness journey, I’ve made it a point to create my own homemade dressings. This way, I can ensure they’re not only delicious but also nourishing.
Many store-bought dressings including those at Chick-Fil-A are loaded with preservatives and added sugars that can harm our gut health and spike our sugar levels. By making my own dressings, I avoid all those unnecessary additives and maintain better control over what goes into my body.
So, step into my kitchen, and let me show you how I whip up this delicious, light balsamic vinaigrette. It’s easy to make, incredibly tasty, and a wonderful way to enhance your salads while staying true to a healthier lifestyle.
Ingredients for Light Balsamic Vinaigrette Dressing
Here’s what you’ll need to make this easy light balsamic vinaigrette:
Olive Oil: The base of any good vinaigrette, olive oil adds a rich, smooth texture and a touch of that Mediterranean flair we can’t stop raving about.
Balsamic Vinegar: This provides the tangy, slightly sweet punch that makes balsamic vinaigrette so unique and flavorful. Plus, it’s loaded with polyphenols which are great for your heart health.
Dijon Mustard: I’m not a fan of mustard. However, a little bit of Dijon mustard helps emulsify the dressing, giving it a creamy consistency and a bit of a kick.
Minced Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds a sharp, aromatic note that brings flavor to the vinaigrette.
Honey or Monk Fruit: If you prefer a dressing with a touch of sweetness without the added sugar, monk fruit is a great option, especially if you’re diabetic or watching your blood sugar. Honey works just as well if you don’t mind the extra sugar.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning, a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper help to balance and enhance the flavors. Adjust these to your taste preference.
How to make light balsamic vinaigrette dressing
Step 1: Add Olive Oil and Balsamic Vinegar
In a small bowl or mason jar, combine 1/2 cup of olive oil and 1/4 cup of balsamic vinegar.
Step 2: Mince the Garlic
Mince 2 cloves of garlic and add it to the bowl or jar.
Step 3: Combine Honey and Dijon Mustard
Add 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard and 1 tablespoon of honey (or 1/2 teaspoon of monk fruit if you’re using that instead) to the mixture.
Step 4: Add Salt and Pepper
Add a pinch of salt and a few cracks of freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Step 5: Shake to CombineÂ
If you’re using a jar, simply close the lid tightly and give it a good shake until everything is well combined. If you’re using a bowl, whisk everything together until emulsified.
Enjoy Your Homemade Light Balsamic Vinaigrette Dressing
Drizzle this light balsamic vinaigrette dressing over your favorite salad greens, roasted vegetables, or even use it as a marinade for grilled chicken or fish.Â
It’s a versatile dressing that’s sure to become a regular in your kitchen.
How to Store
Store your homemade light balsamic vinaigrette in an airtight container or a mason jar with a tight-fitting lid.
Keep it in the refrigerator, and it will stay fresh for up to a week. Remember to give it a good shake before each use, as the ingredients may separate over time.
Why This Dressing Recipe Works
This light balsamic vinaigrette recipe works because it balances all the essential flavors: sweet, tangy, bitter, and sour.
The olive oil provides a smooth base, while the balsamic vinegar adds a tangy sweetness.
Dijon mustard helps to emulsify the dressing, giving it a creamy texture, and minced garlic adds a depth of flavor.
The touch of honey or monk fruit balances the acidity of the vinegar, and salt and pepper bring all the flavors together.
Plus, making it at home ensures you’re using fresh, wholesome ingredients without any unnecessary additives or preservatives.
Enjoy this versatile dressing on salads, roasted vegetables, or as a marinade, and elevate your dishes with its wonderful flavor.
Light Balsamic Vinaigrette Dressing
Ingredients
- ½ cup olive oil
- ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp dijon mustard
- 2 garlic cloves - minced
- 1 tbsp honey - or ½ tsp monk fruit sweetner
- 1 pinch salt
- ground black pepper - to taste
Instructions
- In a small bowl or jar, combine olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and honey or monk fruit.
- Add a pinch of salt and a few cracks of freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add more salt, pepper, or sweetener to suit your preference.
- Pour the light balsamic vinaigrette dressing into a sealed container and store it in the refrigerator. Give it a good shake before each use as the ingredients may separate over time.
