Now, who doesn't love balsamic! This sweet balsamic vinaigrette recipe is ideal to use in both sweet and savoury salads or even wonderful as a marinade for chicken breasts.
I just love the sweet simplicity of this easy homemade dressing with just a few ingredients that are shaken up and ready in just a couple of minutes.
If you are keen to try some more sweet dressings, try our Basil Balsamic Vinaigrette or even our Orange Mustard Vinaigrette.
Did You Know ⁉️
That balsamic vinegar is traditionally made in Italy from unfiltered, unfermented grape juice.
The difference with other kinds of vinegar is that it is made from pressed grapes and aged like wine rather than being made from fermented alcohol.
For an authentic balsamic, always look to Modena or Reggio Emilia. The older the vinegar, the sweeter and more syrupy it is.
You Will Need
How to Make It
Step 1 - Place all the vinaigrette ingredients in a glass jar, then season with a pinch of salt and pepper to start with.
Step 2 -Shake until emulsified (i.e. make sure that the oil and vinegar are blended together really well).
Step 3 - Taste and adjust seasonings to balance the flavours according to your personal preferences.
💡 Top Tip: Make a big batch of this Sweet Balsamic Vinaigrette for your weekly salad making - you are going to love it! 💖💕
Some Variations
A great basic balsamic dressing recipe that you can change up in so many ways - you can...
- Make it herby by adding some fresh herbs such as rosemary, basil, thyme or tarragon.
- Make it tangy by adding a tablespoon of your favourite mustard such as Dijon, seedy wholegrain mustard or even some hot English for some powerful heat.
- Make it nutty by adding some of your favourite chopped (and roasted) nuts; we especially love walnuts, almonds, pecans and macadamias.
- Make it hot and spicy by adding some chopped fresh chilli or dried chilli flakes.
- Make it smoky by adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika.
- And that is why I always have a big batch of this dressing sitting in my fridge every week; it is just ever so versatile.
What Can I Use It On?
- Toss it with a green salad.
- Use it as a marinade for chicken.
- Try it on a pasta salad.
- Toss it with a tomato, spinach or cucumber salad.
- Drizzle it on roasted vegetables (especially great with roasted mushrooms!)
- Try it with green beans.
Common Questions
What Type of Balsamic Vinegar Should I Use?
The best varieties come from Italy; try Modena or Reggio Emilia. The longer balsamic vinegar is aged, the sweeter and more syrupy it will be.
How Much Does This Recipe Make?
It will make up approximately one cup of dressing which is enough for two salads that will serve 4 (for a total of 8 servings).
The nutritional information has been calculated per serving.
How Long Can I Store It?
Store the vinaigrette in a tight jar with a lid so that it's easy to shake when you need to mix it up before serving. You can store the vinaigrette in the fridge for a month or so.
What Diets is It Suitable For?
Dairy-free, Gluten-free, Vegan, Vegetarian
Try It As An Alternative Dressing On...
Need some salad inspiration for your sweet balsamic vinaigrette? Why not try it as an alternative dressing in our...
Recipe Card
Equipment
- A container that has a tight-fitting lid - glass jars are ideal
Ingredients
- ½ cup olive oil
- ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- Pinch salt and pepper
Instructions
- Find a container that has a tight-fitting lid - glass jars are perfect for this.
- Add all the dressing ingredients to the container, add a pinch of salt and pepper, cover it and shake until emulsified.
- Taste and adjust seasonings according to suit your taste.
- Stores in a sealed container in your fridge for a month or so.
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