Basic Vinaigrette Recipes

BASIC VINAIGRETTE

Steps:

• In a small bowl, whisk together vinegar, mustard, salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar.
• Slowly add oil, whisking until emulsified, or shake the ingredients in a jar, or whirl them in a blender.

BASIC VINAIGRETTE DRESSING WITH 8 VARIATIONS

Steps:

• Shake all ingredients for your chosen variation together in a tightly-lidded container OR whisk together in a small bowl.
• Let stand 10 minutes to rehydrate dried herbs and blend flavors.
• Shake again then dress salad as desired.
• Note -- I recommend the lemon dressing on spinach.
• Note -- I recommend the Bacon Dressing, Mustard Dressing, and Balsamic Vinaigrette on strong greens such as escarole, curly endive, and dandelion greens.
• Note -- The sweeter version of the mustard dressing is great for a vinegar coleslaw if you discover that you have accidentally gotten one of those occasional cabbages that are a touch on the bitter side.
• Note -- feel free to play with other seasonings, more complex blends, flavored oils, and flavored vinegars. Once you've learned the technique you can customize your salad dressing to suit just about any meal.

SIMPLE VINAIGRETTE

Steps:

• Set a medium bowl on a kitchen towel shaped like an "O" (this helps keep the bowl steady while whisking). Whisk together the vinegar, mustard, garlic, 1 1/4 teaspoons salt and a few grinds of pepper in the bowl. Slowly drizzle in the oil while whisking continuously until the mixture is combined and blended well. Use right away, or refrigerate in a sealed container for up to 3 days.

BASIC VINAIGRETTE

Steps:

• In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the vinegar, mustard, salt, and pepper. Gradually whisk in enough oil to make a smooth dressing with a balanced taste. Use immediately or store covered, in the refrigerator, for up to 1 week.