Herb-Infused Vinegar & Oil Salad Dressing: A Burst of Freshness in Every Drop!
Elevate your salads with a homemade herb-infused vinegar & oil dressing that’s bursting with fresh flavors. This simple yet sophisticated dressing can be customized with your favorite herbs and used to enhance the taste of any salad. Whether you’re drizzling it over leafy greens, roasted vegetables, or even grilled meats, this dressing adds a deliciously aromatic touch to your dishes. Here’s how to make it at home!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of extra virgin olive oil: The base of your dressing, offering a rich, smooth flavor.
- 1/4 cup of vinegar: You can use apple cider vinegar, red wine vinegar, or balsamic vinegar depending on your taste preference.
- 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced: Adds a punch of flavor and depth to the dressing.
- 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard: Helps emulsify the dressing while adding a subtle tang.
- 1 teaspoon of honey or maple syrup: A touch of sweetness to balance the acidity of the vinegar.
- 1 tablespoon of fresh herbs, finely chopped: Use a combination of your favorites such as basil, thyme, rosemary, oregano, or parsley.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the flavors.
- Optional: A pinch of red pepper flakes: For a hint of heat.
Method:
- Prepare the Herbs:
- Start by washing and drying your fresh herbs. Finely chop them to release their flavors. If you prefer a more intense flavor, gently bruise the herbs with the back of a spoon to help release their natural oils.
- Mix the Base Ingredients:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, Dijon mustard, honey or maple syrup, and vinegar. The mustard not only adds flavor but also helps to emulsify the dressing, giving it a creamy texture.
- Infuse the Oil:
- Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while continuously whisking the mixture. This gradual addition helps create a smooth, well-blended dressing. Whisk until the oil and vinegar are fully combined.
- Add the Herbs and Seasoning:
- Stir in the chopped herbs and season the dressing with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Let It Rest:
- For the best flavor, let the dressing sit at room temperature for about 15-30 minutes before using it. This allows the herbs to infuse their flavors into the oil and vinegar fully.
- Store and Serve:
- If you’re not using the dressing immediately, transfer it to a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid and store it in the refrigerator. Shake well before each use as the oil may solidify slightly when chilled.
Tips for Success:
- Choose quality ingredients: Since this dressing is so simple, using high-quality olive oil, fresh herbs, and good vinegar will make a big difference in flavor.
- Experiment with herbs: Feel free to mix and match herbs to create different flavor profiles. For a Mediterranean twist, try adding some crushed garlic and a few sprigs of fresh oregano.
- Double the recipe: This dressing stores well in the fridge for up to a week, so consider making a larger batch to have on hand.
Conclusion:
Making your own herb-infused vinegar & oil salad dressing is a great way to enjoy fresh, vibrant flavors while avoiding the additives found in store-bought dressings. It’s a versatile recipe that can be tailored to your taste preferences and is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Drizzle it over your favorite salads, roasted vegetables, or even use it as a marinade for meats. Enjoy the burst of freshness in every drop!