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In the world of culinary delights, homemade salad dressings stand out as a healthier, fresher alternative to their store-bought counterparts. Who hasn't found themselves standing in front of the refrigerator, staring blankly at a bottle of mass-produced dressing filled with preservatives and artificial flavors? The truth is, creating your own salad dressings at home not only guarantees quality ingredients but also allows you to customize flavors to suit your palate. One such delightful option is balsamic vinaigrette, a versatile dressing that can elevate salads, grilled vegetables, and even serve as a marinade for meats.

Weekend Balsamic Vinaigrette

Discover the joy of homemade salad dressings with this delicious Weekend Balsamic Vinaigrette recipe. Made with high-quality balsamic vinegar and extra-virgin olive oil, this versatile dressing adds a rich, tangy flavor to salads, grilled vegetables, and meats. It's easy to whip up and customizable to your taste, making it perfect for weekend meal prep. Enjoy healthier meals without preservatives while elevating your culinary creations with this delightful dressing.

Ingredients
  

½ cup balsamic vinegar

1 cup extra-virgin olive oil

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)

1 clove garlic, minced

¼ teaspoon sea salt

¼ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper

Optional: 1 tablespoon fresh herbs (like basil or parsley), finely chopped

Instructions
 

Combine the Base Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, sea salt, and black pepper until well combined.

    Incorporate Olive Oil: Gradually drizzle in the extra-virgin olive oil while continuously whisking to create an emulsified dressing. This step is crucial for keeping the ingredients from separating.

      Adjust the Seasoning: Taste the vinaigrette and adjust the seasoning as desired. You may want to add a pinch more salt, pepper, or honey for sweetness.

        Add Fresh Herbs (Optional): If you're using fresh herbs, stir them into the vinaigrette for an aromatic touch.

          Store or Use Immediately: Use the vinaigrette right away, or transfer it to a jar with a tight-fitting lid. This dressing can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week. Always shake well before using, as separation may occur.

            Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 10 minutes | 8 servings