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About This Recipe
This Light Balsamic Vinaigrette is my FAVORITE! It’s my go-to whenever I am craving a super flavorful, tangy vinaigrette dressing. It’s so good and easy we almost always have some made and stocked in our fridge!
There’s just truly nothing better than fresh homemade salad dressings. And there’s no excuse when it only takes a couple staple ingredients and less than 5 minutes to make. So if this is your first time making your own dressing, this is the perfect one to start with!
This light balsamic vinaigrette dressing is the perfect dressing to make to go with all your favorite salads. I especially love it in a balsamic chicken and strawberry salad.
You can also use it as a delicious balsamic marinade for chicken. Prefer creamier dressings? Make this creamy balsamic dressing instead!
It’s seriously the best balsamic vinaigrette with way fewer calories and less fat than regular balsamic dressing. And the best thing about macro-friendly dressings? You never have to skimp! Drizzle more to your heart’s desire!
If you’re looking for more lightened up dressings to elevate any meal, try my avocado lime ranch dressing, tangy honey mustard dressing or low calorie caesar.
Why You’ll Love This Light Balsamic Vinaigrette
- Staple dressing lightened-up!
- So versatile! Can be used for some many different recipes.
- Perfect as a salad dressing or marinade.
- Ready in less than 5 minutes.
- Tastes way better than store bought (with fewer calories!)
- Balsamic Vinegar – can sub for white balsamic vinegar to have a lighter color vinaigrette.
- Apple Cider Vinegar – can sub for white distilled vinegar or white wine vinegar.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil – a little is all we need but it’s necessary! Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil and make sure not to use light olive oil (which is better for cooking).
- Honey – to help balance the tartness of the vinegar. Can also use maple syrup
- Dijon Mustard – for some tang and flavor!
how to make
- Add all ingredients to a small bowl and whisk to combine. You could also use an immersion blender or just add everything to a jar and give it a few good shakes!
Store in a mason jar with a lid or airtight container. For best results, allow dressing to chill for 30 minutes before serving.
Natural separation will occur as with any olive oil mixed with vinegar. Simply give the vinaigrette a good shake or stir and you’re good to go!
How do I store this dressing?
Store in an airtight container or mason jar with a lid in the refrigerator. Natural separation between the oil and vinegar will occur but just give it a good shake or stir before using.
How long does dressing last?
It will keep in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Again, just give it a good shake just before serving.
What salads pair well with this?
This dressings pairs beautifully with my spinach berry salad and balsamic chicken and strawberry salad! It honestly pairs well with any kind of a mixed green salad or even a simple chef salad as well!
Can I use this as a marinade?
Yes! This works fantastic as a marinade for chicken and makes the most perfect tender and flavorful chicken. Add to a bowl or gallon size bag with up to 2 pounds of chicken and let marinate for at least 30 minute, up to 24 hours.
Did you make this? If you snap a photo, please be sure leave a review, tag me on Instagram or TikTok at @LaurenFitFoodie or hashtag #LaurenFitFoodie so I can see your creations!
Light Balsamic Vinaigrette
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar (60g)
- 2 Tbsp apple cider vinegar (30g) can sub for white distilled
- 2 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil (30g)
- 2 Tbsp water (30g)
- 1 Tbsp honey (21g)
- 1 Tbsp dijon mustard
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/8 tsp pepper
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Instructions
- Add all ingredients to a small bowl (or jar) and whisk/shake to combine.
Nutrition Information
Nutrition is hand-calculated and accurate. No autocalulations! However, note that values can vary based on the brands you use and if you substitute ingredients.
