Balsamic Vinaigrette

N/A Dressing, Condiment, Italian Cuisine

Balsamic Vinaigrette Dressing, Condiment, Italian Cuisine

At a Glance

  • Category Dressing, Condiment, Italian Cuisine

The Forktionary Angle

"The sophisticated dressing that effortlessly bridges the gap between sweet and savory, enhancing many dishes."

Definition

A classic salad dressing featuring balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and seasonings, known for its sweet and tangy profile.

Culinary Chemistry The acidity of balsamic vinegar in the vinaigrette helps tenderize meats when used as a marinade, adding flavor simultaneously.
Storage Guide Store in a cool, dark pantry. If separation occurs, shake well before each use. Refrigeration is optional but extends shelf life.
Usage Tip Primarily used as a salad dressing, but also excellent as a marinade for meats and vegetables, or a drizzle over roasted dishes.

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Balsamic Vinaigrette are:

Tangy sweet acidic herbaceous fruity

Chef’s Secret

Use it to finish pan-seared scallops or chicken; a quick drizzle in the hot pan creates a lovely glossy, flavorful reduction.

Best Substitutes

Red Wine Vinaigrette

Ratio 1:1

Olive Oil & Balsamic Vinegar

mixed fresh
Ratio 1:1

Apple Cider Vinaigrette

Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Look for brands with high-quality olive oil and a good balance of sweet and tart. Or make your own for freshness.

Recipes Using Balsamic Vinaigrette

Spinach Dinner Party Savory Dietary

Baby Spinach Cobb Salad

Craving a vibrant and flavorful salad? This Baby Spinach Cobb Salad recipe, inspired by Fresh Express, is a delicious and healthy meal option, ready in just 40 minutes! Juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and a tangy vinaigrette tossed with tender baby spinach create a delightful combination of textures and tastes. Perfect for a light lunch or a satisfying dinner.

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Dietary Easy Time To Make 30 Minutes Or Less

Bean Salad No 2

A vibrant and flavorful bean salad recipe that's incredibly versatile! This recipe uses garbanzo beans for optimal results, but feel free to experiment with your favorite beans. Quick, easy, and perfect for a light lunch, side dish, or potluck contribution. Get creative with your additions!

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Preparation Easy Side Dishes Preparation

Balsamic Cashew Pea Salad

This vibrant and refreshing Balsamic Cashew Pea Salad is the perfect picnic companion for summer! Light, sweet, and incredibly crunchy, this recipe (inspired by Trader Joe's!) skips the mayo for a lighter, healthier twist. Enjoy the tangy balsamic vinaigrette or substitute with your favorite balsamic vinegar for a customizable flavor experience. Get ready for a burst of summer in every bite!

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30 Minutes Or Less 30 Minutes Or Less Time To Make Preparation

Shrimp Pomodoro Pasta

Dive into a delicious and easy Shrimp Pomodoro Pasta recipe! This classic Italian dish is ready in under 30 minutes and bursts with fresh tomato flavor and juicy shrimp. Inspired by a vintage Kraft recipe, this updated version is perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this simple yet satisfying pasta masterpiece.

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Course Salads Time To Make Italian

Antipasta Salad

A vibrant and flavorful Antipasto Salad perfect as a light lunch, side dish to your favorite Italian entree, or a delightful appetizer! This recipe bursts with Mediterranean freshness, combining juicy tomatoes, salty olives, crisp peppers, and savory salami for an unforgettable taste experience. Easy to prepare in just 10 minutes!

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Chicken Breasts Vegetables Dietary Lunch

Balsamic Chicken Pasta

Transform leftover chicken and pasta into a vibrant and flavorful Balsamic Chicken Pasta Salad! This recipe is quick, easy, and incredibly versatile. The tangy balsamic vinaigrette adds a delicious zing, making it perfect for a light lunch, a refreshing dinner, or even a make-ahead dish for busy weeknights. Enjoy it warm or chilled – it's equally satisfying either way!

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Summer Salads Preparation Summer

Balsamic Steak And Romano Salad

Savor the juicy flavors of this Balsamic Steak & Romano Salad! This recipe features perfectly grilled steak (or chicken!) tossed with vibrant greens, sweet corn, juicy tomatoes, and a tangy balsamic dressing, all topped with creamy Romano cheese. A quick and easy weeknight meal that's bursting with fresh flavors.

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Preparation Main Ingredient Main Dish Preparation

Balsamic Chicken And Fresh Mozzarella

This recipe creates a mouthwatering balsamic chicken dish topped with fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomato. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or elevated sandwiches! Marinating the chicken overnight unlocks incredible flavor. (Marinating time not included in cook time)

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Number Of Servings Time To Make Beginner Cook 15 Minutes Or Less

Balsamic Steak And Blue Cheese Salad

Sizzle into romance with this Balsamic Steak and Blue Cheese Salad! A quick and easy recipe perfect for a romantic dinner for two (easily doubled from a single serving). Tender grilled steak, crisp-tender asparagus and peppers, and creamy blue cheese create a flavor explosion. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion.

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15 Minutes Or Less 15 Minutes Or Less Main Dish Taste Mood

Autumn Main Dish Salad

Embrace the vibrant flavors of fall with this hearty and delicious main dish salad! This recipe combines crisp autumn greens, juicy seasonal fruits, and crunchy nuts for a satisfying and healthy meal your whole family will love. Featuring locally sourced apples (check your local orchard!), smoky bacon (or smoked turkey for a non-pork option), and a delightful blend of fall spices, this salad is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a portable lunch packed in wraps. Serve alongside your favorite bread, biscuits, or cornbread for a complete and unforgettable autumn experience.

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Fall Valentines Day Thanksgiving Ramadan

Barbara's Salad

This vibrant salad, shared with me by my friend Barbara, is a delightful explosion of flavor that's incredibly easy to make! Perfect for a light lunch, a side dish, or a quick weeknight meal. Get ready to impress your friends with this simple yet stunning salad recipe.

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Beginner Cook Weeknight Easy Equipment

Baked Steak And Potatoes

Transform simple steak and potatoes into a mouthwatering masterpiece! This incredibly easy recipe requires minimal ingredients and delivers maximum flavor. Perfect for a weeknight dinner when you're short on time and inspiration, this baked dish is bursting with savory goodness. The balsamic vinaigrette adds a touch of sweetness and tang that perfectly complements the tender steak and fluffy potatoes. Get ready to impress yourself and your family with this unexpectedly delicious meal!

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Main Ingredient Seasonal Meat 30 Minutes Or Less

Roast Pork And Apple Dinner

Enjoy a fall-inspired feast with this quick and easy Roast Pork & Apple Dinner! This recipe delivers all the comforting flavors of a slow-cooked roast in just 30 minutes. Tender pork chops, sautéed apples, and savory herbs create a delicious and satisfying meal, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend gathering. Get ready for a burst of autumnal goodness!

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Sandwiches Picnic Saltwater Fish Seafood

Beth's Best Tuna Salad

This vibrant tuna salad is packed with protein, low in fat, and bursting with tangy, crunchy flavor! Perfect for sandwiches, wraps, crackers, or enjoyed on its own. Get ready for a taste sensation that disappears in minutes! This recipe is easy to customize to your liking.

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Course Chicken Time To Make Preparation

Balsamic Vinaigrette Chicken Salad

Tired of bland chicken salad? This recipe is a game-changer! I created this delicious twist by combining unexpected ingredients with a tangy balsamic vinaigrette. It's surprisingly easy to make and perfect for light lunches, sandwiches, or crackers. Prepare to be amazed by the burst of fresh flavors!

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