Balsamic Vinegar and Olive Oil Dressing

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There are endless ways to use homemade Balsamic Vinegar and Olive Oil Dressing. Balsamico Dressing is perfect for salads and many meals!

A glass salad dressing container with balsamic vinegar and olive oil dressing in it.

When it comes to elevating the flavors of your salads, there's nothing quite like a homemade dressing. Among the various options available, the classic balsamic vinaigrette with olive oil and aged balsamic vinegar is a favorite for many.

This simple yet exquisite dressing has the power to transform an ordinary salad into a culinary masterpiece. Say goodbye to store-bought salad dressing and enjoy homemade vinaigrettes with this easy balsamic vinaigrette recipe.

In this blog post, we'll explore the wonders of homemade balsamic vinegar and olive oil dressing, from its easy preparation to its versatility in enhancing different salads.

If you are looking for a few more homemade salad dressing recipes, try this sweet balsamic vinaigrette and balsamic glaze vinaigrette.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

The combination of good quality balsamic vinegar and extra virgin olive oil creates a balsamic dressing that's a cut above store-bought salad dressings. Here are some reasons why you'll love it:

With just a handful of ingredients that are likely in your pantry you make the best balsamic vinaigrette recipe.
This balsamic vinegar salad dressing recipe doesn't have unnecessary preservatives and ingredients like the store-bought dressing.
Homemade dressings allow you to control the quality of the ingredients.
This balsamic and olive oil dressing is incredibly versatile and can be used on various salads, from classic garden salads to pasta salads, Caprese salads, and more.

Recipe Ingredients

Using high quality ingredients will produce the best balsamic vinegar for salad dressing. Check out this ingredient list to see what you'll need to make your own balsamico dressing.

The ingredients for a simple balsamic vinegar and olive oil dressing.

Balsamic Vinegar of Modena is an aged balsamic vinegar that gives the dressing the tangy flavor. I prefer to find one without caramel color added.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil is the base of the dressing. Use the best extra virgin olive oil you can find. I prefer the Kirkland Organic Olive Oil from Costco.

Salt is the best way to bring out all the flavors of the balsamic olive oil dressing.

Black Pepper gives it just a little spicy kick.

White Sugar is optional. It adds a touch of sweetness and the perfect balance for the acidity of the vinegar. Leave this out if you want to avoid added sugar and make a sugar free balsamic vinegar dressing.

Substitutions

If you're looking for some substitutions, here are a few simple ingredients to try:

You can use white balsamic vinegar for a milder, slightly sweeter white balsamic vinaigrette.
While extra virgin olive oil is the best choice for its robust flavor, you can also use canola oil for a lighter option.
You can use a small amount of agave nectar, pure maple syrup, honey or even a balsamic glaze to replace the white sugar.

How to Make Balsamic Vinegar and Olive Oil Dressing

Here are some quick visual instructions for how to make oil and vinegar dressing. The full printable recipe card with ingredient measurements is below!

In a mason jar or small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, salt, black pepper.

Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning or sweetness according to your preference. You can a little sugar to balance the acidity of the vinegar.

Transfer the dressing to a glass jar or airtight container with a tight-fitting lid.

Four images of adding olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper to a mason jar.

Give it a good shake before using it to ensure all the flavors are well mixed.

Balsamic vinegar and olive oil dressing mixed together in a mason jar.

Recipe Tips & Tricks

Add the ingredients to a small food processor, a blender or use an immersion blender to create an emulsion. This will help prevent the dressing from separating while it rests.
The olive oil may solidify from the cold refrigerator. Run the bottom of the jar under warm water or let it sit at room temperature to melt.
For the best results, use the highest quality balsamic vinegar and extra virgin olive oil you can find.
Let the dressing sit at room temperature for a while before using it; this helps the flavors meld together.

Storage and Reheating

Store your homemade balsamic dressing in an airtight container or glass jar with a tight-fitting lid. Keep it in the refrigerator, and it should stay fresh for up to three weeks.

How to Use Balsamic Vinegar and Olive Oil Dressing

Now that you have your homemade balsamic vinaigrette, it's time to put it to good use. A drizzle of this dressing over roasted vegetables or grilled meats can also work wonders, so don't limit its use to just salads. Here are some different ways to enjoy this balsamico dressing:

Simple Green Salad: Toss it with your favorite greens for a simple, healthy salad.

Pasta Salad: Add a touch of Italian flair to your pasta salad with this dressing.

Caprese Salad: Drizzle it over ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil for a classic Caprese salad.

Feta Cheese Salad: The tangy flavor of the dressing pairs beautifully with feta cheese in a Greek-style salad.

As a Marinade: Use it as a marinade for grilled chicken, vegetables, or even tofu for extra flavor.

Balsamic vinegar and olive oil dressing being poured on top of a salad.

Variations

Feel free to get creative and experiment with different ingredients to create your own balsamic salad dressing variations.

Try using flavored vinegar like this fig balsamic vinegar to replace regular balsamic.

Add a handful of ingredients like crushed garlic, fresh herbs, or a squeeze of lemon juice for extra flavor. The best part about this simple salad dressing is that you can adjust them to suit your personal taste and the type of salad you're serving.

Just remember that adding fresh garlic and herbs will shorten how long the dressing can be stored in the refrigerator.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is balsamic vinegar and olive oil dressing good for you?

Yes, balsamic vinegar and olive oil dressing can be good for you when used in moderation and as part of a balanced diet. Extra virgin olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats, which are considered heart-healthy fats. Balsamic vinegar contains antioxidants, that can help protect your cells. When making homemade balsamic vinegar and olive oil dressing, you have control over the ingredients. You can choose to use natural sweeteners like honey, agave nectar, or pure maple syrup in small amounts, which is a healthier alternative to dressings with high amounts of added sugars.

What is olive oil and balsamic vinegar called?

The combination of olive oil and balsamic vinegar is typically referred to as "Olive Oil and Balsamic Vinegar Dressing" or simply "Balsamic Vinaigrette." This classic dressing is a popular choice for salads and other dishes, known for combining the rich and tangy notes of balsamic vinegar with the fruity and savory qualities of olive oil.

How long does olive oil and balsamic vinegar dressing last?

When stored in an airtight container or glass jar with a tight-fitting lid and kept in the refrigerator, homemade olive oil and balsamic vinegar dressing can typically last for up to two to three weeks. Refrigeration helps slow down the oxidation process and prolongs its freshness. The shelf life of the dressing also depends on the quality of the ingredients used. Using high-quality, fresh balsamic vinegar and extra virgin olive oil can extend its longevity. If you've added perishable ingredients like fresh garlic or fresh herbs to the dressing, it may have a shorter shelf life. In such cases, it's best to consume the dressing within a week or two.

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