Garlic Balsamic Vinaigrette

Almost every recipe seems to have garlic as an ingredient—and for good reason! Not only is it healthy, but its powerful, pungent taste gives a lot of depth to any dish that calls for it. With its intense flavor and appetizing aroma, you can find garlic in just about any cuisine in nearly every part of the world.

When you’ve got a hefty harvest of garlic, you’re in luck! It’s the perfect time to make your very own Garlic Balsamic Vinaigrette. Once you do, store-bought salad dressings will definitely be a thing of the past! What’s great about making your own Garlic Balsamic Vinaigrette is it only takes 10 minutes. Pretty awesome, right?

For this dressing, a grated garlic clove will work best. This makes it easier for its flavors to release when mixed with your other ingredients. Alongside garlic, balsamic vinegar also takes center stage. Its velvety texture, coupled with its viscous, glossy, and dark brown shade makes it something to behold—especially when placed underneath natural light. Aside from its pleasing appearance, balsamic vinegar also has a rich and complex sweetness balanced out by a mellow tartness and slight smokiness.

Naturally, Dijon mustard is also present. It’s a great compliment to the raw garlic as Dijon mustard has a sharp, tangy, and strong flavor with a bit of spice. Bringing all the ingredients together are two kinds of oil: vegetable oil and olive oil. Olive oil can range from delicate to complex when it comes to flavor, while vegetable oil is much milder and even reminiscent of tofu.

You’ll likely end up with a pretty thick mixture, so adding a teaspoon of water at a time will help thin it if necessary. Once you’ve achieved the consistency you like, it’s time to dig in with your Garlic Balsamic Vinaigrette! It works perfectly well not just for green salads, but also Caprese or beet salads. You can even use Garlic Balsamic Vinaigrette as a glaze on green beans or chicken!

Garlic Balsamic Vinaigrette

Give your salads that earthy, spicy punch with this homemade Garlic Balsamic Vinaigrette!

• Author: Bill Dugan
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6
• Category: Salads & Dressings

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 large clove garlic, grated
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar (if your balsamic vinegar is on the tart side)
• Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
• Water, if necessary, to thin mixture

Instructions

1. Put all ingredients in a bowl or a Mason jar. Add the Dijon after the oil, using the same tablespoon; it’ll slide right out!
2. Shake all ingredients until emulsified.
3. If the mixture is a little thick, add water a teaspoon at a time until mixture reaches the desired consistency.
4. The balsamic vinaigrette will keep for two weeks in in an air-tight container in the refrigerator.

Garlic is an essential ingredient in just about every kitchen. With the Glorious Garlic Gardening Guide, you’ll have everything you need to know about growing and enjoying this staple—from the history and health benefits of this ancient herb, to detailed and specific garlic gardening advice, and easy-to-make and delicious recipes that will allow you to spice up any dish!

Have you tried this Garlic Balsamic Vinaigrette recipe? It’s so easy! Please tell us how it turned out for you.