Easy Balsamic Dressing
This balsamic dressing recipe is one of the fastest and easiest to make, and it tastes great.
I firmly believe in trying to make foods yourself rather than buying processed versions from the store. This includes salad dressings. Many store-bought dressings have added extenders and other substances intended to help the product last longer. I'd rather just make a small batch when needed and skip any unnecessary additives.
This recipe actually makes enough for over a month, and as long as it's refrigerated, it will last up to 3 months. You will need to give it a shake before using as the oil will eventually separate. To make a smaller batch, just halve the recipe.
It's always important to try to use the best quality ingredients possible, and salad dressings are no exception. There is a distinct difference in taste between a lower grade balsamic vinegar and ones that have been aged longer and been allowed to develop their flavour. The same holds true for olive oils. However, your regular store-bought variety will do just fine.
Another thing this recipe calls for is a sweetener. If you are using a high grade balsamic vinegar, a sweetener may not be necessary. As with any spice, adjust to your own preference. I specified Monkfruit sweetener as it has 0 calories and is an excellent alternative to granulated sugar; however, any granulated sweetener will work.
This dressing can be used on any leafy green salad. Try sprinkling some freshly grated parmigiano reggiano on a dressed salad for an extra dimension of flavour.
Ingredients
(Makes 32 servings | Serving size = 1 tablespoon)
1 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1 cup balsamic vinegar
1/8 cup Monkfruit sweetener (or granulated sugar), adjust to taste
Garnish:
Freshly grated parmigiano reggiano (or dairy-free parmesan cheese)
Directions
Pour all ingredients into an airtight jar or container. Close the container and shake vigorously until the oil emulsifies.
Serve over any green salad with optional freshly grated parmigiano reggiano to garnish.
Nutritional Information Per Serving:
total calories = 90 | total fat (using butter) = 9g | saturated fat = 1.5g | cholesterol = 0mg | sodium = 0mg | carbohydrates = 6g | dietary fibre = 0g | sugars = 2g | protein = 0g
