Are you tired of bland, store-bought salad dressings that lack excitement? Get ready to transform your salads with this classic French vinaigrette that's so simple, yet so sophisticated! In just 5 minutes, you'll create a restaurant-quality dressing that will elevate every dish from ordinary to extraordinary. Whether you're a novice cook or a seasoned chef, this versatile recipe will become your new secret weapon in the kitchen.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 5 mins
Cuisine: French
Serves: 1 cup
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup vinegar (red wine, balsamic, or apple cider)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: minced garlic or herbs for variations
Instructions
- Select a clean glass jar or bowl with a tight-fitting lid for mixing the vinaigrette.
- Measure out 1/4 cup of your chosen vinegar (red wine, balsamic, or apple cider) into the container.
- Add 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the vinegar, which will help emulsify the dressing and provide depth of flavor.
- Sprinkle in a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the overall taste profile.
- Slowly pour 1/2 cup of high-quality olive oil into the mixture while whisking vigorously to create a smooth, well-combined emulsion.
- Continue whisking until the vinaigrette looks fully integrated and slightly thickened.
- For Classic Variation: Use red wine vinegar and serve as is.
- For Garlic Variation: Mince 1-2 cloves of fresh garlic and whisk into the base vinaigrette.
- For Herb Variation: Finely chop fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or parsley and fold into the dressing.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or vinegar to balance flavors.
- Store in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, shaking well before each use.
Tips
- • Use the highest quality olive oil you can find - it makes a world of difference in flavor • Whisk vigorously to create a smooth, well-emulsified dressing • Experiment with different vinegars and herbs to customize your vinaigrette • Always taste and adjust seasonings before serving • For best results, use room temperature ingredients • Store in a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid for easy mixing and storage • Let the vinaigrette sit for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld • If separation occurs, simply shake the container before use
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 0g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
