UA Cooperative Extension

Balsamic Vinaigrette

Balsamic Vinaigrette

INGREDIENTS:

1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon dried parsley
2 teaspoons powdered garlic
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
1/4 teaspoon pepper
Pinch salt
1 tablespoon honey*
2/3 cup olive oil

EQUIPMENT:

Liquid measuring cup
Measuring spoons
Large (16-32 ounce) glass jar

DIRECTIONS:

  1. Wash hands with warm water and soap.
  2. In a clean 16-32 ounce jar with lid (like an old spaghetti sauce jar), combine vinegar, parsley, garlic, oregano, basil, thyme, pepper, salt, and honey. Place lid on jar and shake vigorously until ingredients are well combined.

Balsamic Vinaigrette

  1. Add olive oil to jar. Shake vigorously until ingredients are well combined.
  2. Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour to allow flavors to develop.
  3. Serve and refrigerate unused portion for up to 3 weeks. (Note: The olive oil will clump up when refrigerated, so take the jar of dressing out 30 minutes before using or run the jar under hot water for a few minutes before shaking well and serving.)

*Honey should not be fed to infants less than one year of age. (Note: Substitute agave or maple syrup.)

Mix It Up!

  • In a hurry? Leave out the herbs. Just mix vinegar, honey, salt and pepper.
  • Is the balsamic too strong? Reduce to 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar or switch out for a milder vinegar like red wine vinegar.
  • Instead of using dried parsley and oregano, use 2 tablespoons fresh parsley and 1 teaspoon fresh oregano.
  • Try using 1 tablespoon of fresh chopped garlic instead of powdered garlic.