If you’re looking to brighten up your salads, roasted veggies, or even grilled chicken with a burst of tangy, subtly sweet flavor, this White Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. The delicate acidity of white balsamic vinegar paired with the richness of olive oil and a hint of honey creates a perfectly balanced dressing that’s versatile and incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe transforms everyday dishes into something truly special with just a few simple ingredients.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The brilliance of this White Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays an essential role from adding acidity and sweetness to depth and aroma, making the dressing both flavorful and well-rounded.
- â…“ cup white balsamic vinegar: Provides a mild tang and fruity undertone without overpowering your dish.
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil: Adds luscious, smooth texture and richness to balance the vinegar.
- 2 tablespoons honey: Brings a gentle sweetness that cuts through the acidity beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Acts as a natural emulsifier and adds a subtle sharpness.
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that lends an aromatic Mediterranean flair.
- ¼ teaspoon dried garlic powder: Imparts a mild, savory punch without overpowering the dressing.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential to enhance and balance all the flavors perfectly.
How to Make White Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients in a clean bowl or directly in a jar that can be sealed tightly. This lets you whisk or shake the vinaigrette without making a mess.
Step 2: Whisk Until Smooth
Use a whisk to vigorously mix together the white balsamic vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. The goal is to create a smooth, emulsified vinaigrette where the oil and vinegar blend seamlessly.
Step 3: Store Properly
Transfer your finished vinaigrette to a clean, airtight jar or bottle. Keep it refrigerated, and remember to shake well before each use since natural separation will occur.
How to Serve White Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe
Garnishes
This vinaigrette pairs wonderfully with fresh herbs like chopped basil or parsley sprinkled on top for an extra burst of color and flavor. Toasted nuts or seeds also add a satisfying crunch when drizzled over salads dressed with this vinaigrette.
Side Dishes
Use this White Balsamic Vinaigrette as a flavorful finishing touch on roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts, or drizzle it over a simple grain bowl to add brightness and moisture.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving your salad or grilled proteins in rustic wooden bowls or colorful plates that contrast with the vinaigrette’s pale golden hue, making your dish not only delicious but visually appealing too.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After making your White Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe, store the leftovers in a tightly sealed container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh and flavorful for up to 5 days. Just remember to shake it well before using it again, as separation is natural.
Freezing
This vinaigrette is best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated rather than frozen. Freezing olive oil-based dressings can alter their texture and flavor, so it’s not recommended for the best taste experience.
Reheating
Because this vinaigrette is served cold or at room temperature, there is no need for reheating. If the dressing solidifies in the fridge due to the olive oil, simply let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes and shake well to restore its consistency.
FAQs
Can I use regular balsamic vinegar instead of white balsamic vinegar?
You can, but regular balsamic vinegar has a darker color and richer, more robust flavor which may change the taste and appearance of your vinaigrette. White balsamic maintains a lighter color and smoother flavor that’s ideal for this recipe.
Is this vinaigrette suitable for vegan diets?
Yes, absolutely! As long as you use a plant-based honey substitute or omit honey altogether, this White Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe is perfect for vegan diets.
How can I make this recipe less sweet?
If you prefer a less sweet vinaigrette, simply reduce the amount of honey to suit your taste, or replace it with a milder sweetener like maple syrup or agave nectar in a smaller quantity.
What salads work best with this vinaigrette?
This dressing complements a wide range of salads, especially those with fresh greens like arugula, spinach, or mixed spring greens, as well as salads featuring fruits such as strawberries or apples.
Can I add fresh garlic instead of garlic powder?
Fresh garlic will add a stronger, more pungent flavor. If using fresh, finely mince or grate just a small amount, then whisk it into the vinaigrette to keep the balance just right.
Final Thoughts
Making your own White Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe at home is a delightful way to elevate everyday dishes with a fresh, flavorful twist. It blends so effortlessly into salads and more, adding that perfect blend of tang, sweetness, and herbaceous notes that keep you coming back for more. I encourage you to give this vibrant dressing a try—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it in your kitchen!
Print
White Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 16 tablespoons (approximately 1 cup)
- Category: Dressing
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This White Balsamic Vinaigrette is a simple, flavorful dressing perfect for salads and marinades. Combining the tang of white balsamic vinegar with the richness of extra virgin olive oil, and balanced with honey, Dijon mustard, and Italian seasoning, this vinaigrette is easy to whisk up and store for quick use throughout the week.
Ingredients
White Balsamic Vinaigrette Ingredients
- â…“ cup white balsamic vinegar
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon dried garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, add white balsamic vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, dried garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Whisk Together: Using a whisk, vigorously mix all the ingredients until the dressing is smooth and emulsified.
- Store Properly: Pour the vinaigrette into a clean, tightly sealed jar and refrigerate. It can be kept fresh for up to 5 days.
Notes
- Shake or whisk well before each use as ingredients may separate.
- Adjust honey and salt to taste for desired sweetness and seasoning.
- Use as a salad dressing, marinade, or drizzle over vegetables.
- Keep refrigerated to maintain freshness and flavor.
