Our Favorite Balsamic Vinaigrette

Skip store-bought dressing and make this top-rated balsamic vinaigrette recipe at home!

How to Make Balsamic Vinaigrette

You'll find a detailed ingredient list and step-by-step instructions in the recipe below, but let's go over the basics:

What Is Balsamic Vinaigrette?

Balsamic vinaigrette is a rich, dark vinaigrette with a bold, sweet, and tangy flavor. It’s most commonly used as a salad dressing, but it also works well as an ingredient in marinades, sauces, and so much more. 

Balsamic Vinaigrette Ingredients

These are the ingredients you’ll need to make this top-rated balsamic vinaigrette recipe: 

• Oil: This homemade balsamic vinaigrette recipe starts with olive oil. 
• Balsamic vinegar: Of course, you’ll need balsamic vinegar. 
• Honey: A teaspoon of honey lends subtle sweetness. 
• Dijon mustard: Dijon mustard adds complex, bold flavor. 
• Shallot and garlic: You’ll need to mince a clove of garlic and a shallot. 
• Salt and pepper: Salt and ground black pepper enhance the overall flavor. 

Learn more: ​​All About Balsamic Vinegar and Its Uses

How to Make Homemade Balsamic Vinaigrette

You won’t believe how easy it is to make homemade balsamic vinaigrette: Simply combine all the ingredients in a jar and shake to combine! That’s all there is to it. You’ll find the full, step-by-step recipe with detailed instructions below. 

What to Do With Balsamic Vinaigrette

There are a million ways to use homemade balsamic vinaigrette dressing! From caprese salad to steak marinades, the options are endless. Here are a few of our favorite recipes that call for prepared balsamic vinaigrette: 

• Blue Cheese and Dried Cranberry Tossed Salad
• Zesty Marinated Asparagus
• Asian Steak Stir-Fry Salad
• Warm Green Bean and Potato Salad with Goat Cheese
• Grilled Sirloin Tri-Tip

How to Store Balsamic Vinaigrette

Store the balsamic vinaigrette in a tightly sealed jar in the refrigerator for up to a week. Shake thoroughly before each use. 

Allrecipes Community Tips and Praise

“I may never buy store bought vinaigrette again!” raves one Allrecipes community member. “This can be whipped up fresh in a matter of minutes and most people likely have everything they will need to make it on hand.”

“The recipe is flavorful,” according to Laura. “You can detect the notes of all the ingredients together, but each stands up on its own as well. I love how simple this recipe is.”

“Served over a bag of Wegman’s mixed greens with a quiche (Chef John’s Quiche Lorraine from this website which, BTW, is one of the best quiche recipes ever!),” says Karen. “Simple and delish. Worthy of company.”

Editorial contributions by Corey Williams