Basil vinaigrette is a versatile dressing that can elevate a variety of dishes. Imagine drizzling it over grilled chicken or fish. It adds a refreshing touch that enhances meals beautifully. It pairs wonderfully with fresh salads loaded with mixed greens, ripe tomatoes, and crunchy cucumbers.
If you’re feeling adventurous, toss it with roasted vegetables or a grain salad—think farro or quinoa. And let’s not overlook pasta; it can turn a plain bowl of noodles into a delightful dish. Finally, it makes a killer dipping sauce for fresh bread.
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Basil vinaigrette—just saying it brings a smile to my face. This dressing transforms mundane meals into something special. Made with fresh herbs, it captures the essence of sun-soaked gardens and summer picnics.
In this blog post, I want to take you on a culinary journey through basil vinaigrette. We’ll get into its flavor profile, why it works so well, and how to create your very own batch. Spoiler alert: It’s easy and delicious.
What is Basil Vinaigrette?
Basil vinaigrette is a simple yet flavorful dressing made primarily from fresh basil, olive oil, vinegar, and a few other ingredients. It’s a blend that celebrate the earthiness of basil, marrying it with the richness of oil and the tang of vinegar.
This dressing isn’t just for salads; it can be drizzled over grilled meats or used as a marinade. The bright green color alone hints at its fresh taste, making your dishes pop visually and flavor-wise.
What Does It Taste Like?
The taste of basil vinaigrette is vibrant and fresh. You get herbaceous notes from the basil, complemented by the smoothness of olive oil. The vinegar adds a pleasant tang, cutting through the richness. If you add garlic, it brings a subtle punch, while grated Parmesan introduces a layer of umami. Each bite is like a trip to a warm Italian garden.
Why This Recipe Works?
1. Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh basil leaves makes all the difference. The flavor is alive in every drop.
2. Easy Preparation: This vinaigrette comes together in minutes. All you need is a blender or food processor. Blend ingredients, and voilà! You have a homemade dressing that tastes better than store-bought.
3. Customizable: Feel free to adjust the balance of flavors. Want more tang? Add extra vinegar. Prefer a stronger herb flavor? Toss in more basil. It’s all about your taste preferences!
4. Health Benefits: Many store-bought dressings are packed with preservatives and additives. This recipe uses whole ingredients, offering a healthier option without sacrificing flavor. Plus, extra virgin olive oil has heart-healthy fats!
Ingredients for Basil Vinaigrette
- 2 cups tightly packed fresh basil leaves, stems removed (about 4 ounces)
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 small shallot, roughly chopped (about 2–3 tablespoons)
- 2 cloves garlic, smashed
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional, adds depth)
- ½ teaspoon lemon zest (optional, brightens the flavor)
Step by Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Gather all your ingredients and measure them. This step makes the blending process smoother. Remove the stems from your basil and roughly chop the shallot and garlic.
Step 2: Combine in Blender
In a blender or food processor, add the fresh basil leaves, olive oil, shallot, garlic, red wine vinegar, and kosher salt. If you’re using crushed red pepper flakes, Parmesan cheese, or lemon zest, add those in as well.
Step 3: Blend Until Smooth
Secure the lid on the blender and pulse the mixture until it’s well-blended. You want a smooth, vibrant green dressing. If it seems too thick, add a bit more olive oil or a splash of water to thin it out.
Step 4: Taste and Adjust
Once blended, taste your vinaigrette. Adjust the flavor by adding more salt, vinegar, or lemon zest if desired. This is your creation, so make it perfect for your palate!
Step 5: Store or Serve
Once satisfied with the flavor, transfer your basil vinaigrette to a jar or airtight container. You can serve it immediately or refrigerate it until you’re ready to use it. Just give it a quick shake before serving if it settles a bit.
Notes
- Use Fresh Basil: Dried basil won’t provide the same flavor. Fresh basil is key!
- Storage: Store the vinaigrette in the refrigerator and use it within a week.
- Blend for Texture: If you prefer some texture, pulse the dressing fewer times for a chunkier feel.
- Make it Dairy-Free: Simply leave out the Parmesan cheese for a vegan-friendly version.
- Experiment with Flavors: Add other herbs like parsley or mint for a twist!
Nutrition Information
This vinaigrette serves approximately 10 portions. Nutritional values per serving may vary slightly based on ingredients but generally include:
- Calories: 120
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Protein: 0g
How To Store The Leftovers?
Storing leftovers is straightforward. Transfer the basil vinaigrette to a glass jar with a tight- sealing lid. Place it in the refrigerator. It will last up to a week. Just like with fresh-cut herbs, it’s normal for the ingredients to separate slightly. Shake or stir before using to restore the emulsion.
Sides for Basil Vinaigrette
1. Quinoa Salad: Packed with vegetables and grains, this salad becomes complete with a drizzle of basil vinaigrette. The nuttiness of quinoa complements the dressing perfectly.
2. Grilled Vegetables: Toss zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus in olive oil and grill until tender. A splash of this vinaigrette transforms them into a flavorsome side dish.
3. Caprese Salad: Layers of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil are stunning. Add basil vinaigrette instead of a balsamic drizzle for a fresh twist.
4. Pasta Salad: Cook your favorite pasta, toss it with seasonal vegetables, and this vinaigrette for a refreshing dish that’s perfect for parties or picnics.
What Are Some Alternative Choices to the Ingredients in Case They Are Not in Your Pantry?
1. Herb Substitutes: If you lack fresh basil, consider using fresh parsley or cilantro. They bring unique flavors that can still result in a vibrant vinaigrette.
2. Oil Alternatives: While olive oil is preferred for its flavor, avocado oil can work well too. It has a high smoke point and neutral taste.
3. Other Vinegars: Red wine vinegar is ideal, but you can substitute white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar for a different tartness.
4. Allium Options: No shallots? Use green onions, chives or even garlic powder (in smaller amounts) for some flavor depth.
Basil Vinaigrette
Equipment
- Blender
Ingredients
- 2 cups tightly packed fresh basil leaves stems removed (about 4 ounces)
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 small shallot roughly chopped (about 2–3 tablespoons)
- 2 cloves garlic smashed
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt plus more to taste
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional
- 1 tablespoon freshly grated Parmesan cheese optional, adds depth
- ½ teaspoon lemon zest optional, brightens the flavor
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
- Gather all your ingredients and measure them. This step makes the blending process smoother. Remove the stems from your basil and roughly chop the shallot and garlic.
Step 2: Combine in Blender
- In a blender or food processor, add the fresh basil leaves, olive oil, shallot, garlic, red wine vinegar, and kosher salt. If you’re using crushed red pepper flakes, Parmesan cheese, or lemon zest, add those in as well.
Step 3: Blend Until Smooth
- Secure the lid on the blender and pulse the mixture until it’s well-blended. You want a smooth, vibrant green dressing. If it seems too thick, add a bit more olive oil or a splash of water to thin it out.
Step 4: Taste and Adjust
- Once blended, taste your vinaigrette. Adjust the flavor by adding more salt, vinegar, or lemon zest if desired. This is your creation, so make it perfect for your palate!
Step 5: Store or Serve
- Once satisfied with the flavor, transfer your basil vinaigrette to a jar or airtight container. You can serve it immediately or refrigerate it until you’re ready to use it. Just give it a quick shake before serving if it settles a bit.
Notes
- Use Fresh Basil: Dried basil won’t provide the same flavor. Fresh basil is key!
- Storage: Store the vinaigrette in the refrigerator and use it within a week.
- Blend for Texture: If you prefer some texture, pulse the dressing fewer times for a chunkier feel.
- Make it Dairy-Free: Simply leave out the Parmesan cheese for a vegan-friendly version.
- Experiment with Flavors: Add other herbs like parsley or mint for a twist!
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
While you could use dried basil, the flavor will not match the fresh herb. Fresh basil provides a brightness that dried basil simply can’t replicate.
2. How can I make this vinaigrette vegan?
Easy-peasy. Just omit the Parmesan cheese. The foundational ingredients of basil, olive oil, and vinegar keep it flavorful.
3. What other uses does this vinaigrette have besides salads?
It’s quite versatile! Basil vinaigrette can be used as a marinade, drizzled over grilled meats or vegetables, or even as a dipping sauce for bread.
4. What if my vinaigrette separates in the fridge?
Don’t worry! Just give it a good shake before using. Separation is normal due to the oil and vinegar’s natural tendencies.
Conclusion
Creating basil vinaigrette is a simple endeavor that yields phenomenal results. You have the power to tailor this dressing to suit your taste. Not only does it enhance the flavors of various dishes, but it also brings a burst of freshness to your table. Next time you gather for a summer meal or weeknight dinner, this vinaigrette could be the star. So go ahead, gather your ingredients and unlock this easy recipe that’s bursting with vibrancy. Happy cooking!
