Easy Vinaigrette

I don’t wanna say nothin’ but some people are so dumb. (Jersey accent) I mean, it is SO EASY to make your own salad dressing that it just seems silly to buy the crud that’s out there in the stores which usually is filled with sugar, bad oils, and all kinds of other junk that you really don’t want. So here is all you need to make a wonderful vinaigrette at home. You can make it a batch at a time or mix a big shaker of it to have on hand when you need it. I bought this great OXO shaker at Bed Bath and Beyond and I love how practical it is for making and storing your delicious homemade dressing.

The basic recipe is 1 part acid (vinegar, lemon juice, etc), 2 parts olive oil, dijon mustard, salt and freshly ground pepper to taste. I use the same basic recipe whether I’m making red wine vinaigrette, balsamic, white wine, or even lemon vinaigrette. Feel free to add your favorite herbs and spices too. Below is what I use to make a big batch

Ingredients

1 t. dijon mustard
1 t. kosher salt or sea salt
1/4– 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
1/2 cup good quality extra virgin olive oil
ground pepper

Instructions

Place first three ingredients in the bottom of your shaker (or in a liquid measuring cup). If using a shaker, add the oil all at once. Shake until everything is emulsified and thick. Add more salt and fresh ground pepper to taste.
(If using the measuring cup, slowly add the oil while you whisk it into the vinegar until all is blended. Season with salt and pepper to taste.) Use on your salad and store the rest in the shaker until next time! If I am using a really good quality balsamic like the kind I find at Vom Fass, the dressing tastes heavenly. I’ve been known to put some in a small container and bring it to a restaurant to dress my own salad. Go ahead, give it a try. And for crying out loud, stop buying the Kraft!

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