Basic Vinaigrette Formula
3:1 or 2:1 oil to vinegar ratio + salt + pepper + emulsifier + sweetener (optional)
o Oil: I recommend a good-quality extra virgin olive oil
o Vinegar: any type you like
o Emulsifier: mustard, tahini or nut butters, egg yolk (classic caesar)
o Sweetener: honey or maple syrup
These are a few of my go-to recipes. You can make your own variations, sub in different vinegars, sweeteners, or emulsifiers. Other add-in options: minced garlic or shallot, fresh or dried herbs. All yield ~3/4 cup.
Balsamic Honey Vinaigrette:
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon dijon mustard
1 ½ tablespoons honey
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Greek Red Wine Vinaigrette:
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
Pinch of black pepper
Maple Tahini Dressing:
1/4 cup tahini
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon (~3 tablespoons)
2 teaspoons dijon mustard
1 tablespoon maple syrup
1/2 teaspoon salt
Pinch black pepper
Cold water as needed to thin it out (~2-4 tablespoons)
For all dressings: Whisk together all ingredients until well emulsified (little separation of the oil and vinegar), or pour all ingredients into sealed jar, like a mason jar, and shake until well combined. Store dressing in sealed jar for 1-2 weeks.
Vinaigrettes may solidify a bit in the fridge as the oil hardens - take dressing out of fridge about 10 minutes before serving to allow it to come back to liquid.