Transform your salads with this vibrant Homemade Italian Vinaigrette. Perfect for enhancing green salads, pasta dishes, and more, this easy-to-make dressing combines classic Italian flavors with a touch of sweetness. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight meal or hosting a dinner party, this vinaigrette is sure to impress with its rich and balanced taste.
Ingredients For Homemade Italian Vinaigrette
Cheese and Mustard
- 3 tablespoons (45 grams) Grana Padano cheese, grated (substitute Parmesan)
- 2 tablespoons (30 grams) Dijon mustard
Vinegar and Oil
- 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) red wine vinegar
- 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) extra virgin olive oil
Sweetener and Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon (20 grams) honey
- 1/4 teaspoon (1.25 milliliters) dried oregano
- 1/8 teaspoon (0.5 milliliters) ground Himalayan sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon (1.25 milliliters) freshly ground black pepper, or to taste (I always use mixed peppercorns)
How To Make Homemade Italian Vinaigrette
- Combine Cheese, Mustard, and Vinegar: In a medium-sized bowl, add the grated Grana Padano cheese, Dijon mustard, and red wine vinegar. Using a whisk, begin to mix the ingredients together until they start to blend.
- Emulsify with Olive Oil: Gradually pour in the extra virgin olive oil while continuously whisking. This slow addition helps to emulsify the dressing, ensuring a smooth and well-integrated vinaigrette. Avoid pouring the oil too quickly to prevent the mixture from separating.
- Incorporate Honey and Seasonings: Continue to whisk the mixture as you slowly add the honey. Once the honey is fully incorporated, season the vinaigrette with dried oregano, ground Himalayan sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Adjust the seasoning to taste, adding more salt or pepper if desired.
- Store or Serve: If you’re not using the vinaigrette immediately, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. This dressing can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to one week. Before serving, give it a good stir or shake to recombine any separated ingredients.
- Serving Suggestions: Drizzle the homemade Italian vinaigrette over your favorite green salads, pasta dishes, or roasted vegetables. Its versatile flavor profile makes it an excellent accompaniment to a variety of dishes, enhancing their taste with every drizzle.
This Homemade Italian Vinaigrette is a testament to the simplicity and depth of Italian culinary traditions. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a dressing that elevates any meal, adding layers of flavor and richness. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, this vinaigrette is a must-have addition to your recipe collection. Enjoy the fresh, tangy, and savory notes that make this dressing a perfect match for a wide array of dishes. Make it ahead, store it well, and savor the delicious results every time you whip up a salad or pasta meal!
