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Home » Dips, Dressings & Sauces » Healthy Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe

Healthy Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe

Published: Feb 26, 2021 by Wendy Polisi Modified: Feb 26, 2021 · 1167 words. · About 6 minutes to read this article. This post may contain affiliate links. All opinions are my own.

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Everyone knows that a stellar dressing can take your salad from boring to totally crave-able. Store-bought is a great shortcut when time is tight, but when you have a few minutes to spare, whip up a homemade dressing like this Healthy Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe  You will love the rich, garlicky goodness!  Homemade tastes better, plus it is the best way to skip the sugar and chemicals that can be found in many commercial brands.

Overhead photo of a prepared Balsamic Vinaigrette Dressing Recipe in a glass jar with a blue ribbon sitting on a tan cloth.

If I could make only one salad dressing for the rest of my life, it would be this healthy Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe. I have made some version of this hundreds, probably thousands of times.  It is one of my all time favorite dressings.

What makes this dressing special? It is quite simply so flavor-packed that you won't find a store-bought dressing that can compare. 

This is a great recipe for meal prep.  It takes just five minutes to throw together and gives you a week filled with crave-worthy salads. I would wager to say that this Balsamic Dressing could make a salad lover out of most anyone.

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Balsamic Vinegar Dressing Ingredients

  • Balsamic Vinegar - If at all possible, opt for an aged balsamic vinegar of the best quality you can afford. This will be sweeter than young vinegar, so make sure you taste before adding sweetener if you do not like a sweet dressing. If you are watching carbs, make sure you read the label.
  • Extra Virgin Olive Oil - Again, use the best quality you can afford. I use one for dressings and finishing dishes and another for cooking.
  • Sweetener - Your preferred sweetener will do here. I try to avoid sugar these days, so Swerve is my go too. Sugar, honey, maple syrup, coconut sugar - it is all good here.
  • Mustard - Dijon, grainy, or any brown mustard is nice.
  • Garlic - You can adjust this to your tastes. If you don’t have garlic, garlic powder or garlic salt works fine. If you use garlic salt, reduce the amount of sea salt.
  • Seasonings - Don’t skip the salt and pepper. Cayenne pepper is optional.
Close up of Balsamic Vinaigrette Dressing Recipe in a glass jar sitting on a canvas cloth with parsley next to it.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the proper ratio of olive oil to balsamic vinegar?


The proper ratio of olive oil to balsamic vinegar in vinaigrette recipes is three parts olive oil to one part vinegar.  This is a guide and can be adjusted according to taste or dietary goals.

How do I make creamy Balsamic Vinaigrette?


To make a creamier dressing, add in either ¼ cup mayonnaise, tahini, or plain Greek yogurt in place of ¼ cup of the extra virgin olive oil.

How do I cut back on the oil in salad dressing?


I've used the traditional 1:3 ratio of vinegar to oil here, but feel free to use less oil if you want.  If you are trying to cut back on oil, try using chia gel for all or part of the oil.  To do this mix ½ tablespoon chia seeds with ¼ cup water and stir.  Let sit for about 5 minutes, until it forms a gel.

Why is my dressing separated?


Since oil and vinegar do not naturally mix, they must be forced to combine through a process called emulsification. When the vinaigrette sits, it can separate. All you need to do is whisk it or shake it in a jar until it combines again. You can also re-process it in your blender.

Does homemade balsamic vinaigrette need to be refrigerated


Yes. Unlike store bought dressings - which also typically need to be refrigerated - this recipe does not contain any preservatives. It can sit out for a few hours, but beyond that I recommend refrigeration.

How long does homemade balsamic vinaigrette last?


This recipe will keep for about two weeks up to a month sealed in the refrigerator. I like to keep it in a mason jar.

Tools Needed

  • Blender, bowl and whisk, or glass jar with a tight fitting lid.

Variations

  • Add in 1 chopped shallot or 2 tablespoons chopped red onion.
  • Add 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary.
  • Add the juice of one lemon.
  • Omit the fresh minced garlic and instead use 1 tablespoon of garlic powder. (More or less to taste.)
  • For a kick of heat add in 1 minced chipotle chili pepper plus 1 tablespoon adobo sauce.

What Goes With This Dressing?

  • Use on any salad
  • Use as the dressing for a pasta salad.
  • Drizzle a tablespoon or so over fresh steamed vegetables.
  • Drizzle over veggies in a wrap.

Tips for Making Balsamic Vinaigrette Dressing

  • Use the best quality olive oil and balsamic vinegar that you can afford and take care that you are actually using extra virgin olive oil. Extra virgin olive oil is defined as containing no more than .8 percent acidity. In an analysis of popular brands of “extra virgin, researchers found that many of them did not actually meet the standards. Inferior oils can have inferior taste. You can read more about the challenges in the olive oil industry in this article from the New Yorker.
  • While you can make this dressing with a whisk and a bowl, for best results use a blender. It is the easiest way to get a silky emulsion.

How to Make a Balsamic Vinaigrette Dressing Recipe

Here are step by step photos. For the full recipe with measurements, please scroll down.

First, gather your ingredients.

Photo of balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper in prep bowls

Next, add the balsamic vinegar, garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper and cayenne pepper to the blender.  Process until smooth. (You can also combine the ingredients in a jar and shake, or whisk together in a small bowl. ) 

Photo of  balsamic vinegar, garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper and cayenne pepper in a blender with a measuring cup of oil next to it.

After that, add the olive oil. 

Photo of olive oil being added to a Balsamic Vinaigrette Dressing recipe.

That is it!  It is really that simple.

Photo of a finished Balsamic Vinaigrette Dressing Recipe in a blender.

You May Also Like

  • This Tomato Garlic Dressing is quick to make and even quicker to disappear! I find myself making this one again and again.
  • Avocado Cream tips its hat to guacamole, while remaining uniquely its own. Perfect with Mexican food, this never gets oil.
  • Tzatziki Sauce is one of my all-time favorite sauces. I love to use it on Mediterranean Bowls and Lamb Kebabs.
  • Garlic Lime Cashew Sour Cream is a vegan sour cream alternative that will surprise you with how good it is.
Shot of Recipe for Balsamic Vinaigrette Dressing in a glass jar
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Print Recipe

Balsamic Vinaigrette Dressing Recipe

This Balsamic Vinaigrette Dressing Recipe is the perfect way to make your salads shine. Packed with flavor, bottled dressings just can't compete.
Prep Time5 mins
Total Time5 mins
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American, Gluten Free, Healthy
Keyword: balsamic vinaigrette dressing recipe, garlicky, spicy
Servings: 12
Calories: 126kcal

Equipment

  • Blender

Ingredients

  • ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
  • ¾ cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons Swerve or other sweetener
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic more or less to taste
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • ½ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper optional
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  • Combine ingredients in a blender and process until smooth. Store in a mason jar in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Notes

Variations
  • Add in 1 chopped shallot or 2 tablespoons chopped red onion.
  • Add 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary.
  • Add the juice of one lemon.
  • Omit the fresh minced garlic and instead use 1 tablespoon of garlic powder. (More or less to taste.)
  • For a kick of heat add in 1 minced chipotle chili pepper plus 1 tablespoon adobo sauce.
Nutritional information does not include the sugar alcohols in Swerve.

Nutrition

Calories: 126kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Fat: 13g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 209mg | Potassium: 5mg | Vitamin A: 15IU | Vitamin C: 0.2mg | Calcium: 3mg | Iron: 0.1mg

« Quinoa Bread Recipe - Gluten Free & Flavor Packed!
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About Wendy Polisi

Hi, I’m Wendy! I’m a cook, author, blogger, natural health enthusiast…and most importantly a mom. My boys are 10 & 11 and my late life princess is 3. Firm believers in lifestyle design, our family has been location independent since 2008. Join me to read about our adventures in the kitchen…and out!

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. robin rue

    September 12, 2017 at 7:24 pm

    That sounds so good. I am going to make this for my dinner salad tonite.

    Reply
  2. Stacie @ Divine Lifestyle

    September 12, 2017 at 7:58 pm

    5 stars
    This is a great dressing. I love the added heat you put in this one. Om nom nom.

    Reply
  3. Melissa Chapman

    September 12, 2017 at 8:53 pm

    5 stars
    My husband makes oil and vinegar dressing almost everyday and he needs to mix it up a little so I will get him this recipe so we have variety.

    Reply
  4. Catherine Sargent

    September 12, 2017 at 9:16 pm

    I can't wait to make this recipe. I am glad you and your family are safe. We had a rough night, but we still have power and just had some branches and leaves scattered.

    Reply
  5. Shell

    September 12, 2017 at 11:27 pm

    I love balsamic dressing. I'll have to try your recipe!

    Reply
  6. AnnMarie John

    September 13, 2017 at 12:26 am

    I'm glad your safe from the hurricane. My heart goes out to the people affected as well. I think this recipe is worth a try. I love having salad around and I could live on it too, because I love veggies.

    Reply
  7. Angela Milnes

    September 13, 2017 at 12:39 am

    5 stars
    I LOVE making my own dressings. This one looks delicious!

    Reply
  8. Carol Cassara

    September 13, 2017 at 12:55 am

    Thank God, you are safe! There are so many people affected by the hurricane and it's heartbreaking to watch the news! This recipe sounds great, I love the flavors and it's perfect for any salad!

    Reply
  9. Mitch

    September 13, 2017 at 1:15 am

    5 stars
    You are a smart person! If you have to live off of canned food, at least have a topping to make it more palatable! Thanks for sharing this, and I am glad the worst is over for all my Floridian friends!

    Reply
  10. Jocelyn @ Hip Mama's Place

    September 13, 2017 at 1:17 am

    So good to know that you're okay. I would totally prepare a lot of food for the family as well, if I were in your situation. I would love to keep this recipe!

    Reply
  11. brianne

    September 13, 2017 at 1:24 am

    This is my favorite dressing ever and I love this recipe! Will have to try it out!

    Reply
  12. Theresa

    September 13, 2017 at 1:30 am

    I've been eating more salads lately and love the idea of using vinaigrette instead of heavy dressings. I like that you have dijon in this recipe. I'm sure it gives it a little extra zing!

    Reply
  13. Pam

    September 13, 2017 at 1:44 am

    This dressing sounds really good. I have always been a fan of vinegarettes.

    Reply
  14. Kelly Hutchinson

    September 13, 2017 at 2:18 am

    5 stars
    I love balsamic vinaigarette dressing! I use it as a marinare and on salads. I didn't knwo it was so easy to make!

    Reply
  15. Liz Mays

    September 13, 2017 at 2:21 am

    Oh we could use this in so many of our recipes. Yum! I'm curious about that cayenne pepper!

    Reply
  16. Ktristin

    September 13, 2017 at 2:23 am

    YUM! What a simple and delicious dressing, I totally want to make this.

    Reply
  17. Toni | Boulder Locavore

    September 13, 2017 at 3:04 am

    5 stars
    Now I have a new flavor dressing for my salad! Thanks for this recipe.

    Reply
  18. Tess

    September 13, 2017 at 3:21 am

    I like balsamic vinaigrettes. A new one to add to my recipes.

    Reply
  19. Cinny

    September 13, 2017 at 3:35 am

    This is fantastic because its one of my fav dressings! I'm going to give it a try next time.

    Reply
  20. travel blogger

    September 13, 2017 at 4:16 am

    This sounds so good! We have been eating a lot of salads lately, and this would be a great way to give it a great new twist. I love homemade dressing, and this sounds perfect!

    Reply
  21. Crystal

    September 13, 2017 at 6:18 am

    I don't make a ton of dressings from scratch. But this makes it all sound so simple. I may ditch the bottled dressings from here on out.

    Reply
  22. Shannon Gurnee

    September 13, 2017 at 9:23 am

    I love Balsamic Vinaigrette dressing! I would love to try making this sometime. Thanks for sharing.

    Reply
  23. Mary Ann

    September 13, 2017 at 10:11 am

    The dressing looks great. I will definitely try your recipe because I love balsamic vinaigrette. So glad to hear you were ok in the storm!

    Reply
  24. Tracy @ Ascending Butterfly

    September 13, 2017 at 5:56 pm

    ooh I love Balsamic Vinaigrette Dressing! I have never tried making my own, this doesn't sound to intimidating even for time starved me, I might just have to give this a go. I have some cute mason jars all empty that I needed something to do with!

    Reply
  25. Our Family World

    September 13, 2017 at 11:12 pm

    5 stars
    The only way we can counter the effects of natural calamities is to always be prepared for any emergency. I am happy you and your family is safe. I am one with you in praying for the victims of the hurricane in FL and TX.

    Reply
  26. Annemarie LeBlanc

    September 14, 2017 at 9:14 am

    5 stars
    Love your dressing recipe. I am happy you and your family is okay and that preparedness was a priority.

    Reply
  27. Shannon Graham

    July 13, 2018 at 7:36 pm

    5 stars
    I can't wait to give this a try! Looks delish!

    Reply
  28. ECruz

    October 22, 2019 at 5:37 pm

    5 stars
    I love this dressing. I just made it but I would like to know what the serving size is. I see the nutrition information but not the serving size/amount. 2 tablespoons, like most?

    Reply
    • Wendy Polisi

      October 22, 2019 at 7:35 pm

      It is 1/12 of the recipe.

      Reply
  29. Melissa

    January 10, 2021 at 11:11 pm

    5 stars
    I just made this vinaigrette and it is so delicious and easy! Instead of putting it in a blender, I shook it up in a mason jar and it was perfect. I also added some dried basil and oregano for a little extra Italian flavor. My husband is not usually a fan of balsamic vinaigrette’s, but loved it!

    Reply
    • Wendy Polisi

      January 12, 2021 at 6:40 pm

      I am so glad that you all enjoyed it! I have started doing the mason-jar thing too - I get tired of hand washing the blender. Love that addition of herbs.

      Reply

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Hi, I’m Wendy! I’m a cook, author, blogger, natural health enthusiast…and most importantly a mom. My boys are 10 & 11 and my late life princess is 3. Firm believers in lifestyle design, our family has been location independent since 2008. Join me to read about our adventures in the kitchen…and out! Read More…

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