How to Make a Basic Vinaigrette

A vinaigrette is a basic sauce, usually used as a salad dressing, that can be made from two or three simple ingredients in about 3 minutes. Best of all, it can be expanded on in infinite ways.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• 1 tbsp. Dijon mustard
• 1/4 c. balsamic vinegar
• salt and pepper
• 3/4 to 1 c. olive oil
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1. Remember that the basic ratio for vinaigrette is one part vinegar to three or four parts oil. Use whatever ratio tastes right to you, though; some people like significantly more vinegar, some less.

2. 

   Use the highest-quality ingredients you can.

3. 

   Whisk the mustard and vinegar together in a medium bowl.

4. Season lightly with salt and pepper.

5. 

   Continue whisking the vinegar/mustard mixture and drizzle in the oil in a thin steady stream.

6. Start tasting the mixture when about half of the oil has been incorporated. You may need to add some more salt and pepper.

7. Keep whisking in oil until the vinaigrette tastes right to you. It should taste smooth and be slightly tart. If it's too sour, keep whisking in oil.

Tips & Warnings

• You can substitute any acidic liquid for the balsamic vinegar, such as lemon or other citrus juice; many kinds of vinegar (white wine, red wine, sherry, cider); or even Champagne.
• The mustard can be omitted, but it adds flavor and helps bind the oil and vinegar together for a short while. After an hour or so the mixture will separate. Just whisk it back together when you want to use it.
• Chopped, pureed or roasted shallots blend in well, as does honey for a touch of sweetness. Fresh herbs, like basil, parsley, thyme and marjoram, are also good additions.
• Although vinaigrettes are usually used as salad dressings, they can also be used as sauces for light foods such as fish, shellfish and chicken.

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[khristal23]

on 3/13/2009 Great recipe!

on 3/6/2006 Fresh garlic pressed through a garlic press will add a delicious twist to your dressing!

on 11/30/2005 To make a vinagrette I use a little bit of honey. It softens the flavor and makes it less harsh on your throat. Also make sure you taste it to know what ingredients you need to add more of.

on 11/22/2005 Adding some garlic and Worcestershire sauce will immensely improve the flavor of the sauce. Finely crumbled feta cheese mixed in makes a nice addition as well.

on 11/22/2005 Keeping salad fresh beyond a day also means only dressing the part you eat that day.