Berry-Balsamic Vinaigrette
A classic balsamic vinaigrette …always a staple in my fridge as it is just so versatile and easy to make. One day, I felt playful and created a new version that combines the slight tartness of the balsamic vinegar with the sweetness of summer-fresh berries! A true match made in heaven, this vinaigrette adds "zing" to a mixed green salad of escarole, butter lettuce and radicchio, topped with grilled chicken or salmon. And with its stunning lush berry color and incredibly fresh taste, you may just become hooked on homemade, forgoing those expensive and often less than healthy store-bought dressings.
Adapted from: Blackberry Vinaigrette from Little B Cooks
Yield: about 1 cup
Adapted from: Blackberry Vinaigrette from Little B Cooks
Yield: about 1 cup
Ingredients
- 2 cups mixed fresh berries like blackberries, blueberries, strawberries and raspberries
- ¼ cup good quality balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 small clove garlic chopped (optional)
- 2 teaspoons honey
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice or orange juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- Freshly ground pepper to taste
- ½ cup almond oil or extra-virgin olive oil
Instructions
- In a blender or mini food processor, puree berries.
- Place a small strainer over a bowl. Pour pureed berries into strainer, pressing with the back of a spoon to remove the seeds.
- Return pureed berries to blender or food processor. Add all remaining ingredients except oil; process until smooth.
- Add the oil slowly (by drops); process continuously until smooth. (A mini food processor with a tiny hole in the lid works great for this task!)
- Taste; add more honey, salt and pepper if desired. Blend again.
Notes
Make Ahead and Storage Tips: dressing may be made up to 3 days ahead. Cover and refrigerate until serving time. Whisk again before serving.
This vinaigrette is quite versatile! You will find it dresses up a simple bowl of the freshest salad greens or would also be delicious drizzled over grilled chicken or salmon.
If possible, use almond oil as it lends a pleasing sweet essence to this fruity vinaigrette which can be found in some supermarkets as well as natural food stores. (I use Spectrum or Whole Foods 365.)
This flavorful vinaigrette is featured with: Grilled Chicken Salad with Berry-Balsamic Vinaigrette.
Other favorite homemade salad dressings you may enjoy are: Balsamic Vinaigrette, Pomegranate Vinaigrette and Mango-Tangerine Dressing.
