Tired of boring salad dressings? Ready to elevate your everyday greens from blah to breathtaking? Then you've come to the right place! This creamy balsamic salad dressing recipe is ridiculously easy to make, bursting with flavor, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It's the perfect addition to any salad, but trust me, you'll want to drizzle it on everything! This healthy and delicious recipe is perfect for quick dinner ideas and homemade cooking. It's one of those best recipes that will become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar (high-quality is best!)
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (for a vegan option)
- 1 tablespoon milk or cream (or plant-based milk for vegan)
- 1 small clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey (or maple syrup), milk (or plant-based milk), minced garlic, salt, and pepper. If using a jar, a lid is recommended for easier shaking.
- Emulsify: For the creamiest dressing, whisk vigorously until all ingredients are well combined and the dressing is slightly thickened. If using a jar, shake vigorously for about 30 seconds.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the dressing and adjust seasonings as needed. You might want to add more honey for sweetness, balsamic vinegar for tang, or salt and pepper to taste. This is where you can personalize the recipe to your preference!
- Serve: Drizzle your homemade creamy balsamic salad dressing over your favorite salad and enjoy! It’s also fantastic as a marinade for chicken or fish.
Tips for the Best Creamy Balsamic Salad Dressing:
- Use High-Quality Ingredients: The flavor of your dressing will be directly impacted by the quality of your ingredients. A good quality balsamic vinegar and extra virgin olive oil make all the difference.
- Don't Over-Whisk: Over-whisking can make the dressing too airy. Aim for a smooth, creamy consistency.
- Make it Ahead: This dressing can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. The flavors will actually meld and improve over time!
- Get Creative with Herbs: Add a tablespoon of fresh herbs like chopped basil, oregano, or thyme for an extra layer of flavor.
Variations:
- Spicy Balsamic Dressing: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a kick.
- Roasted Red Pepper Balsamic Dressing: Roast a red pepper, peel and chop it, then add it to the dressing for a smoky sweetness.
- Lemon Balsamic Dressing: Substitute some of the balsamic vinegar with fresh lemon juice for a brighter, more citrusy flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is based on using 2 tablespoons of dressing and will vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 2-5g
- Protein: 0-1g
This creamy balsamic salad dressing is a simple yet impressive recipe that elevates any meal. Enjoy experimenting with the variations, and let your taste buds be your guide! It's a perfect addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals, making homemade cooking a breeze. This easy-to-make dressing will undoubtedly become one of your best recipes!