Balsamic Vinaigrette

Nothing quite beats a traditional vinaigrette to enhance a salad that may already have very strong flavours. This classic balsamic vinaigrette is a 2-ingredient recipe and easy to whip up in less than a couple of minutes.

What Is Balsamic Vinaigrette Made Of?

Balsamic vinaigrette is a classic salad dressing with a simple base. It is typically made of balsamic vinegar, which is the star of the show! It provides the dressing’s signature tangy and sweet flavour. 

Then, add it with olive oil, which adds richness and body to the dressing. These two ingredients form the core of a basic balsamic vinaigrette.

Try our balsamic roasted figs and halloumi salad or asparagus, roasted onion and balsamic tomato salad.

Is Balsamic Vinegar a Healthy Dressing?

This homemade balsamic dressing can be a healthy dressing choice, depending on the ingredients and how it’s made. Using high quality, organic ingredients certainly makes a difference.

It is generally low in calories and high in antioxidants. The key is to make it yourself at home so you’re in control of the ingredients and the portions. 

Store-bought varieties often contain added sugars, unhealthy fats, and preservatives, so best to avoid those.

What’s The Difference Between Balsamic Vinegar and Balsamic Vinaigrette?

Balsamic vinegar is a pure ingredient. It is a type of vinegar made from pressed grapes, typically from the Trebbiano grape. 

It undergoes an aging process in wooden barrels, which gives it a rich, sweet flavour and dark colour. Balsamic vinegar is often used in our salad dressing recipes, marinades for meats, and as a flavour enhancer for various dishes.

An authentic balsamic vinaigrette is a salad dressing made from balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and sometimes other seasonings.

It is used to dress salads and other dishes, adding flavour and moisture. While a classic balsamic vinaigrette can be bought it in stores, we encourage you to make it at home.

Does Balsamic Vinaigrette Go Bad?

Yes, balsamic vinaigrette can go bad, especially if it is not stored properly or if it has been kept for an extended period. Signs that balsamic vinaigrette has gone bad include:

Mould: If you see any mould growth on the surface of the dressing, it has spoiled and should be discarded.

Off smell: If the dressing has a strong, unpleasant odour, it may have gone bad. Time to discard it.

Off taste: If the dressing tastes sour, rancid, or generally unpleasant, it’s likely past its prime.

Separation: A well-made vinaigrette should emulsify (oil and vinegar stay combined). If it separates significantly and won’t recombine with shaking, it might be spoiled.

Does Balsamic Vinaigrette Have Dairy?

This tangy balsamic dressing does not contain dairy. It is also a vegan salad dressing.

Does Balsamic Vinaigrette Have Gluten?

This is a gluten free Italian balsamic vinaigrette recipe.

Ingredients

These are the ingredients you need for balsamic vinaigrette:

Balsamic vinegar:  If you’re ever so fortunate enough to procure some real balsamic vinegar, this would make for a truly stunning vinaigrette.

Balsamic vinegar is to Italy like wine is to France. It is a regional product that is regulated in both Modena and Reggio Emilia in Italy and is DOP (Denominazione d’Origine Protetta | Protected Designation of Origin) stamped.

This label guarantees that the product is produced, processed, and packaged in that geographical zone and is done so according to tradition.

The 2 DOP protected balsamic vinegars are Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale di Modena DOP (Traditional Balsamic Vinegar of Modena) and Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale di Reggio Emilia DOP (Traditional Balsamic Vinegar of Reggio Emilia).

I have been very fortunate to have sampled an authentic balsamic vinegar from Reggio Emilia. Needless to say, it was a teaspoon of velvety nectar.

Balsamic vinegar is made from grape must. Grape must is freshly crushed grape juice of not only the fruit but in its entirety to include the skin, seeds, and stems. The first historical mention of balsamic vinegar dates all the way back to 1046.

As much as we would love to be able to procure a small bottle of a DOP sanctioned balsamic vinegar, it is simply not affordable for us mere mortals. The one I tried was around 2000 euros for a small bottle. I kid you not!

No doubt you would have come across balsamic vinegar from Modena that is affordable. This is a product which uses grapes blended with wine vinegar but produced exclusively in Modena. In my book, they are more than good enough!

Extra virgin olive oil: Add some good olive oil or extra virgin olive oil to the balsamic vinegar for a classic vinaigrette and to also add richness and smoothness.

Variations and Substitutions

Honey or maple syrup: For a touch of sweetness to balance the acidity. To maintain a healthier version, use organic honey. Try our honey seeded mustard dressing.

Dijon mustard: Mustard is a classic addition to vinaigrettes and adds texture and a hint of spiciness. Try our Dijon mustard vinaigrette.

Garlic: Freshly minced garlic enhances the dressing’s savoury profile. Let it sit for a while to allow the garlic to be infused into this oil and vinegar dressing. Our apple cider vinaigrette with garlic might take your fancy.

Herbs: Chopped fresh herbs are a great way to enhance the flavours of this easy balsamic vinaigrette. Try using basil, oregano, tarragon, thyme, or rosemary. Or maybe even a combination of some of these.

Shallots or red onion: Finely chopped for extra depth.

Lemon juice: Brightens up the dressing, especially if you love the freshness of this citrus addition.

Instructions

Step by step instructions for how to make balsamic vinaigrette:

Add the balsamic vinegar in a small mixing bowl. 

Then slowly drizzle the extra virgin olive oil into the vinegar while whisking constantly until well combined.

How to Store

Keep this simple balsamic vinaigrette refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 10 days (2-3 days if it has fresh herbs) to minimise exposure to air and light.

Olive oil may solidify slightly after refrigeration. To liquify, let it rest at room temperature or microwave briefly.

Best Salad For this Dressing

Roasted Purple Brussels Sprouts Salad

Calling all Brussels sprout lovers! For those with a sophisticated palate yearning for nutty and bitter flavours, this purple Brussels sprouts salad is made for you. The fragrant spices and heavenly honey add depth to the recipe. Perfect for that special occasion!