Balsamic Vinaigrette Dressing

Skip store-bought salad dressing and make your own Balsamic Vinaigrette in minutes! This versatile dressing adds a burst of flavor to salads, roasted vegetables, and even grilled meats. It is incredibly easy to make and elevates the simplest of dishes into something special.

If you love homemade dressing, try my Creamy Vinaigrette, Homemade Greek Salad Dressing, and Classic Thousand Island Dressing.

I’ve been making my own dressing for years. I started doing it to save money but quickly learned how fast and easy it is. Plus, I love knowing exactly what’s going into my food—no preservatives, just pure, fresh ingredients. This Balsamic Vinaigrette recipe was one of the first dressings I learned to make. Over time, I’ve tweaked it and retested it to get just the correct ratio of tang to sweetness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cheaper To Make – Store-bought dressing often costs over double what it costs to make it home.
Five minutes – that’s how long it takes to make balsamic dressing! With just a shake or a stir, you have a delicious dressing ready to use.
Incredibly Versatile – Use it as a marinade for chicken or steak, drizzle it over roasted vegetables, and it’s a must with Caprese Pasta Salad.

Balsamic Dressing Ingredients

Ingredients for homemade balsamic vinaigrette dressing in clear glass bowls and containers.

Balsamic vinegar is the show’s star, bringing a complex and rich, sweet, and tangy flavor.
Good-quality extra virgin olive oil adds a smooth, rich texture to the dressing, making it luxurious without being heavy.
I add Dijon mustard, salt, fresh garlic, and pepper for flavor.
Honey is added to balance the tang of the vinegar with a touch of sweetness.

Recipe Variations

For a more robust flavor, try using whole-grain mustard instead of Dijon.
If you prefer more sweetness, increase the honey or swap it out for maple syrup.
You can also experiment with different types of vinegar, like red wine or apple cider vinegar.

Step By Step Directions

Photo 1 - ingredients for balsamic dressing in a small jar, Photo 2 - basamic dressing mixed up in a jar with a silver lid.

Add everything to a jar.
Screw on a tight-fitting lid, and shake vigorously to emulsify the dressing. You can also add all the ingredients to a small bowl and whisk to blend.

How Long Does This Dressing Stay Good For?

Thanks to its high acidity, this homemade balsamic vinaigrette recipe will last a while when stored in the fridge. When kept in an airtight container, it will last for an entire month. Just shake it before enjoying it again.

Small jar of balsamic vinaigrette dressing with a silve spoon for serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use white balsamic vinegar?

Yes, you can, but taste and adjust accordingly. White balsamic tastes milder, so it might need less Dijon or honey.

What is the best jar for this quick salad dressing recipe?

I prefer to make mine in a 20-ounce mason jar with a plastic or metal lid. This makes it easy to store and shake up.

What other homemade dressings can I make?

Blue Cheese dressing, creamy vinaigrette, Green Goddess and Greek salad dressing are a few of my favorites.

How To Use Balsamic Dressing

This homemade salad dressing can be used on so many dishes. It’s delicious on Juicy Balsamic Chicken Thighs and Grilled Flank Steak. Drizzle it over green salads, or Super Simple Caprese Salad. It’s fantastic on Caprese Pasta Salad, and roasted Brussels Sprouts. And for dessert, you have to try it with Easy Balsamic Vinegar Strawberries.

Silver spoon serving homemade balsamic dressing over a mixed green salad.

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If you tried this Balsamic Dressing Recipe or any other recipe, please leave a 🌟 star rating and let me know how it went in the comments below. Thanks!