Simple and Creamy Balsamic Dressing

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Looking to add a burst of flavor that takes your greens from ordinary to extraordinary? Creamy Balsamic Dressing to the rescue! This delightful concoction combines the tangy richness of balsamic vinegar with the velvety smoothness of creamy goodness, creating a dressing that you will love!

Salad dressings are the unsung heroes of any salad. 

They can transform a simple bowl of greens into a mouthwatering medley of flavors and textures. And this Creamy Balsamic Dressing is no exception.

This recipe is so simple and easy to make, it might just become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• This recipe is so easy to make and takes only a couple of minutes to prepare.
• It’s versatile and can be used on lettuce salads, pasta salads, and more!
• It is naturally gluten and dairy free.
• Fresh ingredients and homemade dressings are always so much better than store-bought!

Ingredients and Possible Substitutions

Balsamic Vinegar- I would recommend quality balsamic vinegar for this recipe to ensure the best flavor

Olive Oil – I would not recommend using another type of oil for this dressing. A lot of the flavor comes from the oil, and while a neutral-flavored oil like avocado oil would work, it should only be used if you do not enjoy the taste of extra virgin olive oil.

Maple Syrup – Maple syrup and balsamic complement each other for the perfect sweet and tangy dressing. Honey can also be used but you may need to scrape the sides of the blender with a rubber spatula to ensure that it dissolves fully.

Avocado Oil Mayonnaise – This ingredient is added to make the dressing creamier while still allowing it to be dairy-free. Primal Kitchen is my favorite brand. (You can omit this ingredient for a regular balsamic vinaigrette.)

Dijon Mustard – Coarse, or whole grain, Dijon mustard may be used in a pinch, but smooth Dijon mustard works better in this creamy dressing.

Garlic Cloves- while fresh garlic always adds amazing flavor, you could use 1 teaspoon of garlic powder to keep it simple.

Equipment Needed for Creamy Balsamic Dressing

• Blender or Food Processor- you will blend all the ingredients in either a food processor or blender.  You could also use an immersion blender.
• Air-tight container to store the dressing in.

What is balsamic dressing used for?

The most common way to use balsamic dressing is over salads but you can also try it in cooked dishes, too. Balsamic holds onto its spicy kick, balancing the rich flavor of meat, poultry, and fish, and adding welcome acidity to vegetables.

What’s the difference between balsamic vinaigrette and balsamic dressing?

Balsamic vinaigrette and balsamic dressing are both salad dressings that incorporate balsamic vinegar as a primary ingredient, but there are some differences between the two:

• Balsamic Vinaigrette is a lighter consistency because of the oil and vinegar mixture. Balsamic dressing can vary in texture and can be lighter or creamier depending on the recipe used.
• Balsamic Vinaigrette is well-balanced and has a slightly sweet and savory profile.  Balsamic dressing can vary widely in taste depending on different ingredients used such as maple syrup, dijon mustard, black pepper, etc.
• Balsamic vinaigrette is a specific type of dressing with standard ingredients. Balsamic dressing is broader and can have a range of dressings using balsamic vinegar as a base, with different ingredients and flavors.

How to Make Creamy Balsamic Dressing

1. Add extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, avocado oil mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, garlic cloves, sea salt, and black pepper to your blender or food processor.

2. After blending, taste the dressing to ensure it has the flavor notes you enjoy, you may need to add more balsamic or mustard, or salt depending on your preference.  Be brave and adjust!

3. Place in the fridge so it will be chilled before serving.

4. Store and enjoy for up to 2 weeks.

Can I Make this dressing without a food processor?

Yes, you can.  You can use a blender, food processor, salad dressing shaker, or just your hands!  If you shake it on your own you will want to make sure the container is sealed tight and you’ll shake until well blended.

Is creamy balsamic dressing healthy?

All of the ingredients used in this recipe are whole foods including healthy fats.  Since this dressing is made from home there are no unhealthy additives which makes it a healthy choice when eaten in moderation.

Is creamy balsamic dressing gluten-free?

All of the ingredients in this recipe make this dressing naturally gluten-free.

Tips for Success

1. Blending the dressing well helps to emulsify it so it won’t separate.  You can do this by shaking the dressing container, using a salad dressing shaker or a blender.
2. The dressing will likely separate after being refrigerated so allow it to sit on the counter for 10 minutes or so and then shake to mix again.
3. You can easily make a double batch of this recipe because it will last for up to 2 weeks in the fridge.

How long can I store this Creamy Balsamic Dressing?

This dressing stores well when sealed in an airtight container and stored in the fridge. Consume within 2 weeks for best quality.

It will begin to separate, and the olive oil may solidify. Simply pull the dressing from the fridge and allow it to come to room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before serving. Give it a good stir or shake and enjoy.

Recipe Tips

• If you do not prefer a sweet dressing, start with 2 tablespoons of maple syrup in the creamy balsamic dressing and adjust to taste.
• The dressing will start to separate after it is stored. Make sure the jar is sealed and shake vigorously (or stir) to combine the ingredients again before serving.

If you are looking for a tasty salad to make with this Creamy Balsamic Dressing, try this Strawberry and Goat Cheese Salad.