Healthy Homemade Salad Dressing - Chef Alina

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I was trying to remember the last time I bought bottled dressing. The best guess I could come up with is maybe two years ago. It’s been so long, I really can’t even remember. Clearly, it’s not something I miss buying. For me, dressing falls into the category of ‘why buy it when you can make it’. I’ve got a great go-to recipe for Balsamic Vinaigrette for you today.

If you’re already stocking your fridge with your own dressing, here’s another recipe to add to your arsenal. And, if you haven’t yet tested the waters of making dressing at home, you should give it a shot…I promise you, it’s quick (as in, it takes just a couple of minutes), easy (I usually just whisk this together in a glass measuring cup), and delicious.

What kind of friend would I be if I gave you a great vinaigrette recipe without something delicious to put it on?! So, I wanted to share a salad I’ve been hooked on for the past couple of weeks. I love this combination of textures and flavors! It’s crispy & crunchy and slightly bitter & spicy, yet sweet and nutty. It’s been making such a regular appearance on my table, I’m dubbing it my Fall Salad.

Ingredients

Vinaigrette

1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Salt
Fresh ground pepper
1/2 - 3/4 cup olive oil

Salad

Arugula
1 medium apple, quartered, core removed & sliced thin (I like Fuji or Gala)
1/2 bulb fennel, sliced thin
1/4 cup toasted pecans

Instructions

Vinaigrette

In a small bowl, combine balsamic vinegar, garlic, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper, and whisk together. Let stand for 10 minutes. Slowly whisk in olive oil. Store in a sealed container in the refrigerator.

Salad

Arrange a bed of arugula on each plate. Top with apple, fennel, and pecans. Drizzle with vinaigrette.

When it comes to homemade dressings, the possibilities are endless. Not only do they allow you to control the ingredients and flavors, but they're also incredibly easy to make. The Balsamic Dijon Vinaigrette recipe shared above is a perfect example. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation time, you can enjoy a delicious dressing that beats any store-bought alternative.

To complement the vinaigrette, the Fall Salad brings together an exquisite combination of textures and flavors. The crisp and crunchy arugula provides a refreshing base, while the thinly sliced apple adds a touch of sweetness. The fennel lends a slightly bitter and spicy flavor, perfectly balanced by the nuttiness of the toasted pecans. Topped with the homemade Balsamic Dijon Vinaigrette, this salad is an ideal accompaniment to any meal during the fall season.

Experimenting with homemade dressings and salads allows you to customize your meals, incorporating fresh and nutritious ingredients while avoiding any unwanted additives. By making your own dressings and salads, you can ensure a healthier and more flavorful dining experience. So why not give it a try and elevate your taste buds with the delightful combination of Balsamic Dijon Vinaigrette and the Fall Salad?