How to Mix Your Own Vinegar & Oil

Vinaigrette dressing ingredients on vintage wood

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A basic vinaigrette enhances your favorite salad or sandwich. Mixing your own allows you to experiment with different vinegars and oils, and customize the taste to suit your preferences. Adjust the basic vinaigrette ratio -- three parts oil to one part vinegar -- to change the richness or tartness of your finished product. Feel free to add other flavor enhancers, such as salt, pepper, honey or mustard.

Add a pinch of salt, pepper or other spices to a mixing bowl. Measure 1/4 cup of vinegar for every cup of finished vinaigrette and pour it into the bowl.

Whisk together the vinegar and spices until combined.

Measure 3/4 cup of oil for every 1/4 cup of vinegar you use.

Add the olive oil slowly to the mixture with one hand while whisking with the other. Pour the oil into the mixture in a slow, steady stream to allows the ingredients to gradually come together. Continue to whisk the ingredients until well combined.

Pour the mixture into a jar with a lid or a clean salad dressing bottle. Store the mixture in the refrigerator until ready for use. If your mixture separates, simply give it a good shake to recombine.