Salad dressing

Tempo
5 min
5 min
People
N/A
Difficulty

5 Ingredients

  • 25 gOlive oil
  • 25 gBalsamico
  • 1 TSPHoney (or maple syrup, white sugar, or brown sugar, based on your preference)
  • A pinchSalt
  • A pinchPepper

Equipment

  • A small bowl
  • A whisk or fork
  • A scale or measuring spoons
  • A jar with a lid (optional, for storage)

Preparation

  1. Combine the Olive Oil and Balsamico
    In your small bowl, pour in equal parts of olive oil and balsamico. The equal parts create a balanced base for your dressing, with the richness of the olive oil complementing the tangy sweetness of the balsamico.

  2. Add Sweetness
    Add 1 teaspoon of honey (or your chosen sweetener) to the mixture. If you're using maple syrup, it will add a distinct, rich flavor. White or brown sugar will dissolve into the dressing, subtly sweetening it without overpowering the other flavors.

  3. Season
    Sprinkle in some salt and black pepper to taste. Start with a pinch of each, then adjust, according to your preference. The salt enhances the flavors, while the pepper adds a slight kick.

  4. Whisk It Together
    Using your whisk or fork, vigorously mix all the ingredients until fully combined. The goal is to create a smooth, emulsified dressing where the oil and vinegar blend together beautifully, rather than remaining separate.

  5. Taste and Adjust
    Taste your dressing, and adjust any of the ingredients as needed. If it's too tart, add a bit more honey or sweetener. If it's too thick, a little more balsamico can lighten it up. Adjust the salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.

  6. Store or Serve
    If you're not using the dressing immediately, you can transfer it to a jar with a lid and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Always give it a good shake or stir before using, as the ingredients may separate while it sits.

  7. Enjoy
    Drizzle your homemade dressing over your favorite salad and enjoy!

Tips:
For a creamier dressing, you can add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard, which will help emulsify the dressing further and add a tangy depth of flavor.
Feel free to experiment with different types of vinegar for new flavors. Apple cider vinegar, for example, can add a fruity twist to your dressing.
Adding minced garlic or shallots can give your dressing a spicy, aromatic kick, perfect for salads with bold-flavored greens.
Enjoy crafting your dressing, and don’t be afraid to tweak the recipe to perfectly suit your salad and palate!