Basil Balsamic Vinaigrette

This Basil Balsamic Vinaigrette is a tangy, creamy, delicious addition to any salad! Fresh aromatic basil leaves pair perfectly with deeply flavored balsamic vinegar for the most irresistible dressing. Just blend a few simple ingredients and drizzle it over your meal or save it for later!

I love to top so many of my salads, especially this Cucumber Beet Salad, with this bold-flavored balsamic basil vinaigrette.

It goes really well with salads that are heavy on healthy greens or savory salads that have some fruit in them. Although, it’s quite versatile and would pair wonderfully with any of your favorites! 

Another idea is to drizzle it over sandwiches, paninis, wraps, or as a sauce for vegetables because it’s so thick and creamy.

This vinaigrette is so easy to whip up with mostly kitchen staples, so you can skip the trip to the store. An added benefit to making your own dressing from scratch is that you know exactly what ingredients are in it and can adjust the flavors according to your preferences.

All that’s needed is to toss olive oil, fresh basil leaves, garlic, balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, dijon, salt and pepper into the blender. Making it takes 5 minutes tops, but lasts for days and days in the refrigerator!

You actually don’t have to use a blender if you want a dressing with more texture. Just chop the garlic and basil by hand and whisking everything together or shake it together in a mason jar.

For another tasty salad dressing, be sure to check out my Maple Dijon Vinaigrette!

Reasons To Love This Vinaigrette

• Customizable
• Ready in 5 minutes
• Vegan and gluten-free
• Goes on salads, sandwiches, veggies, and more
• Just 8 ingredients, most of which are kitchen staples

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Ingredients and Substitutions

• Oil – Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for a rich base.
• Basil – Fragrant, fresh basil leaves give the best flavor and gorgeous green color! Try to select the leaves that are large and dark green.
• Garlic – One garlic clove is all you need unless you want to add more.
• Balsamic Vinegar – This dark and rich vinegar adds a punch while enhancing all the flavors of the vinaigrette.
• Maple Syrup – Maple syrup adds a rustic sweetness while helping to balance the other ingredients. Agave nectar can work as well.
• Dijon – Add a little dijon for tang. This ingredient also works as an emulsifier to help the oil and vinegar come together.
• Seasoning – Sprinkle some salt and pepper in for added flavor.

How to Make Basil Balsamic Vinaigrette

Here are some quick visual steps. Find the full recipe with exact measurements on the recipe card below.

Pinch the basil leaves off of the stems and peel the garlic clove.

Add everything to a blender or food processor and pulse until it becomes a smooth mixture.

Alternatively, you can chop the basil and garlic. Then, whisk or shake all of the ingredients together for a more textured dressing.

Taste the dressing to see if you want to add any more seasoning or increase any of the other flavors. 

Enjoy your balsamic vinaigrette right away or save it in the refrigerator for later.

Storage Tips

Store the dressing in a sealed glass jar for 7 days in the refrigerator. Shake it before using it in case some separation occurs over time. 

Variation Ideas

• Increase the tanginess with more dijon mustard.
• Toss in fresh or dried onion for more savory flavor.
• Add more maple syrup or agave for a sweeter dressing.
• Use less balsamic vinegar and olive oil for a thicker sauce.
• Up the powerful herb flavor with fresh or dried parsley, thyme, and rosemary.

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