Our Best Homemade Vinaigrettes

Name: Our Best Homemade Vinaigrettes
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 8 servings
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 1/4 cup red wine vinegar; 3/4 cup extra virgin olive oil; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 teaspoon honey; 1 clove garlic (minced); 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground); 1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed); 3/4 cup olive oil; 1 tablespoon honey; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped); 1 tablespoon fresh basil (chopped); 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground)

15 min 8 servings Easy

All Recipes

Explore a variety of delightful homemade vinaigrettes to elevate your salads and dishes.

Prep

15 min

Total

15 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Vinaigrettes are the cornerstone of a great salad, bringing together flavours and adding a delightful zing. Making your own vinaigrette at home allows you to control the ingredients and tailor the taste to your preference. Whether you’re dressing a simple green salad or a hearty pasta salad, the right vinaigrette can make all the difference. Here, we share our best recipes for homemade vinaigrettes, each offering its unique twist on classic flavours.

Instructions

Prepare the Basic French Vinaigrette

In a small bowl, whisk together the red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, and minced garlic until well combined.

Pro tip: Using a whisk helps emulsify the ingredients for a smoother texture.

Add Olive Oil

Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while continuously whisking to emulsify the vinaigrette.

Pro tip: Pouring the oil slowly ensures proper blending with the vinegar.

Season the Vinaigrette

Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste and whisk again to combine.

Pro tip: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Prepare the Lemon Herb Vinaigrette

In another bowl, combine lemon juice, honey, chopped parsley, and basil. Whisk until honey dissolves.

Pro tip: Fresh herbs bring a vibrant flavour to the vinaigrette.

Add Olive Oil to Herb Mixture

Gradually whisk in the olive oil until the mixture is emulsified.

Final Seasoning

Add salt and black pepper to taste. Whisk to combine before serving.

Pro tip: Store in a tightly sealed jar for easy shaking before use.

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Tips & Tricks

Use high-quality olive oil for a richer taste.
Balance acidity with sweetness for a well-rounded flavour.
Experiment with different vinegars for unique profiles.
Store vinaigrettes in the fridge for longer freshness.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a vinaigrette française?

A vinaigrette française is a classic French dressing made with oil, vinegar, mustard, and seasonings.

What is the best vinaigrette for pasta salad?

A lemon herb vinaigrette pairs well with pasta salad, adding freshness and lightness.

How do I make the best homemade vinaigrette?

Use quality ingredients like good olive oil and fresh herbs, and balance the acidity and sweetness to your taste.

What are some vinaigrette recipes?

Try our basic French vinaigrette or lemon herb vinaigrette for great starting points.

How long can I store homemade vinaigrette?

Store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Shake well before each use.

Serving Suggestions

These homemade vinaigrettes can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Be sure to shake well before each use to combine the ingredients. Pair these vinaigrettes with fresh salads, roasted vegetables, or even as a marinade for grilled meats. Their versatility makes them a staple in any kitchen.