Easy Balsamic Vinaigrette

This Easy Balsamic Vinaigrette is a delicious dressing for mixed greens. It’s a versatile recipe that comes together quickly with just a handful of ingredients.

We’ve been getting a lot of salad greens in our CSA and I wanted to make a simple vinaigrette that I could drizzle over the greens. If you’ve never tried making your own salad dressing before, this is a great recipe to start with! It’s super simple and you can customize it by adding different herbs and seasonings.

Balsamic Vinaigrette Ingredients

• Olive Oil– I reocmmend a high quality olive oil like California Olive Ranch.
• Balsamic Vinegar– Again, look for a high quality brand. My favorite is Colavita.
• Dijon Mustard– This adds a delicious, tangy flavor.
• Mayonnaise– A small amount of mayo helps emulsify the dressing and prevent separation of the oil and vinegar.
• Salt– Always add salt to taste!

How to Use Balsamic Vinaigrette

I like this type of dressing paired with softer greens like spinach, spring mix, and arugula. The flavor is compatible with a variety of salad toppings but my favorite combination is dried fruit and nuts. Try dried cherries and pecans, dried cranberries and walnuts, or dried apricots and almonds. The sweet fruit and salty nuts are a delicious balance to this dressing. You can also use this dressing on my Italian Chopped Salad or my Halloumi Salad.

Salad Dressing Variations

You can make this dressing your own by adding different herbs and seasonings. Try adding 1 teaspoon of oregano for a Greek-inspired flavor. Or add 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning for a flavor that will pair perfectly with your favorite pasta dish. Swap out the balsamic vinegar for red wine vinegar for a slightly sweeter flavor. The possibilities are endless!

How to Store Salad Dressing

Store this dressing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. If the dressing separates, simply whisk it together before drizzling it on your salad.

Does Balsamic Vinegar Go Bad?

Technically, balsamic vinegar can spoil but it has a pretty long shelf life. Balsamic vinegar should last between 3-5 years, as long as it’s stored properly. Keep it in a cool dark place like a cupboard or pantry. Avoid direct sunlight and heat. Be aware that the top of the fridge or near the store might be too warm and should be avoided.

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Looking for more salad inspiration? Here are a few of my favorite salads and dressings:

• Vegan Caesar Salad
• Easy Greek Salad Dressing
• Red Wine Vinegar Dressing

If you love chopped salads, be sure to try this Mediterranean Chopped Salad recipe!