Best Basil Vinaigrette in 5 minutes

How to Prepare An Awesome Delicious Basil Vinaigrette in 5 minutes

If you’re looking to elevate your salads, roasted vegetables, or grilled meats, this vibrant basil vinaigrette will do the trick. With fresh basil, garlic, and high-quality olive oil, this dressing is packed with flavor and super easy to make. Plus, with a hint of honey, it balances the tanginess of vinegar perfectly! Here’s how you can whip up this amazing dressing in just a few minutes.

Ingredients

2 cups loosely packed fresh basil leaves – Use fresh, fragrant basil for the best results.
2 cloves garlic, peeled – Adds a sharp, savory kick.
¼ cup + 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar – A tangy, flavorful base for your vinaigrette.
¾ cup extra-virgin olive oil – The richness of the olive oil balances the acidity of the vinegar.
Scant 1 teaspoon salt – To season and enhance all the flavors.
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper – A touch of spice to round out the flavor.
1½ tablespoons honey – For a subtle sweetness that cuts through the acidity.

Equipment

A blender or food processor for mixing.
A measuring cup and spoons.
A storage jar or bottle with a tight-fitting lid.

Instructions

Prepare the Basil and Garlic:
- Start by washing the fresh basil leaves thoroughly to remove any dirt. Pat them dry with a paper towel.
- Peel the garlic cloves and set them aside.
Combine the Ingredients:
- In a blender or food processor, add the basil leaves, garlic, white wine vinegar, salt, and black pepper. Blend on low until the basil and garlic are finely chopped and well combined.
Add Olive Oil:
- With the blender running on low, slowly drizzle in the extra-virgin olive oil. This helps emulsify the vinaigrette, giving it a smooth, creamy texture. Continue blending until everything is fully combined.
Sweeten it Up:
- Add the honey to the mixture and blend for a few more seconds. The honey adds a wonderful balance to the acidity of the vinegar, creating a harmonious flavor profile.
Taste and Adjust:
- At this point, taste your vinaigrette. If you feel it needs more salt, pepper, or sweetness, adjust accordingly. You can also add a little more vinegar if you prefer a tangier flavor.
Store and Enjoy:
- Transfer your freshly made basil vinaigrette into a jar or bottle with a tight-fitting lid. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Be sure to shake well before using, as the ingredients may separate over time.

Tips for Perfecting Your Basil Vinaigrette

Use high-quality ingredients. Since this recipe uses minimal ingredients, their quality really shines through. Opt for the best extra-virgin olive oil and white wine vinegar you can find.
Adjust sweetness to taste. If you’re not a fan of sweet vinaigrettes, you can reduce the honey or leave it out entirely.
Experiment with flavors. You can customize this vinaigrette by adding a teaspoon of Dijon mustard for a creamy tang or a dash of crushed red pepper for heat.

How to Use Your Basil Vinaigrette:

Salads: Drizzle over fresh greens, tomatoes, or mozzarella for a classic combination.
Roasted Vegetables: Toss roasted veggies like carrots, zucchini, or potatoes in the vinaigrette for a burst of flavor.
Grilled Meat: Use it as a marinade or drizzle over grilled chicken, shrimp, or fish.

Enjoy the fresh, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors of this basil vinaigrette! Whether you’re dressing a salad or using it as a marinade, it adds an aromatic twist to any dish.