Balsamic Vinaigrette
I love making my own vinaigrette at home—it’s easy, deliciously healthy, and features vinegar. Vinegar is comprised of acetic acid, which has been shown to positively influence glucose levels. All vinegars contain acetic acid (balsamic, apple cider, champagne, white, red wine vinegar, etc), which may help slow the digestion of carbs, potentially delaying the release of glucose into the bloodstream and promoting better insulin sensitivity.
While research is still emerging, some studies suggest that incorporating vinegar into carb-rich meals may have a beneficial effect on your post-meal blood sugar levels. Plus, whipping up your own homemade salad dressing allows you to reduce sodium, saturated fats, and calories while adding nutrient-rich ingredients, often making them a healthier alternative to store-bought options!
Try my creamy Ranch or Lemon Vinaigrette dressings.
Balsamic Vinaigrette
Ingredients
- ½ cup balsamic vinegar, choose a good-quality, aged vinegar if possible
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup*
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ cup water
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Combine all the ingredients in a jar or container with a screw-on lid. Screw on the lid and shake the container vigorously until everything is well combined.
Notes
• I like to use honey, but you can swap in maple syrup if you prefer. Storage tips:
• Store any leftover balsamic vinaigrette in an airtight container or jar in the refrigerator. It will keep fresh for up to 1 week. • Because this dressing contains olive oil, it may firm up or slightly solidify when stored in the fridge. This is perfectly normal! Simply let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before using, and give it a good shake or stir to bring it back to its smooth, pourable consistency. • Always shake vigorously before each use to ensure all the ingredients are well combined and the flavors are evenly distributed.
Made this recipe for my family and everyone loved it!
Hi! So happy everyone enjoyed it and thanks for taking the time to share your feedback! 🙂
Better than bottled dressing!!! I use it on my salads and as a dipping sauce for crudités. Another winner!! Thanks Joy!!
Hi Morgan! Thanks so much for your sweet words and I’m so thrilled you’re enjoying it! 🙂
“I make a big salad with dinner all the time for my family and was looking for an easy homemade dressing that everyone would love to go with. This is it! Thanks!”
Hi Jen! Nothing like a big dinner salad! Thank you for trying the recipe and I hope it becomes a regular favorite at your table. You may also want to check out my Honey Mustard Vinaigrette and Lemon Vinaigrette. They’re super-easy (like this one) and will make additional go-to options!
I love all your healthy recipes! I will make this Balsamic Vinegar Dressing today!
Hi Jill! So happy you’re here. Hoping you love this simple recipe!
Would love to try this recipe, but cannot use honey. Can you suggest a substitute for honey.
Hi Phyllis. Thanks for your comment! You can use maple syrup instead of honey. Please let us know if you decide to try it—we’d love to hear your thoughts!
—Team Joy
Thank You for this recipe!
We hope you love it, Melody!
— Team Joy
can you please recommend a balsamic vinegar?
Hi Roxanne. There are lots of great brands! A few that are highly recommended: Colavita Balsamic Glaze, Guiseppe Giusti Premio Balsamic Vinegar of Modena, Guiseppe Giusti Gran Deposito Aceto Balsamico Di Guiseppe Giusti Moderna, Pompeian Gourmet Balsamic Vinegar and 365 by Whole Foods Market. You can find these in your local supermarket or on Amazon. Hoping you love the dressing!
—Team Joy
Delicious! Beats bottled dressing!
Hi Nancy. Thanks for your kind words and review! We’re so happy you’re enjoying Joy’s dressing recipe. Be sure to try some of her other tasty spins, including Honey Mustard Vinaigrette and Lemon Vinaigrette. We’d love to hear what you think if you decide to give either one a shot!
—Team Joy