My Go-To Balsamic Salad Dressing

Healthy, Delicious & Budget-Friendly! 🥗

If you’re looking for a simple, healthy, and flavorful dressing that works for salads, roasted veggies, marinades, and more, this is it! My Go-To Easy Dressing is made with just a few pantry staples, but it’s way healthier (and cheaper!) than store-bought dressings.

Once you try this homemade vinaigrette, you’ll never go back to bottled dressings full of preservatives, added sugars, and unhealthy oils!

Why You Should Make Your Own Dressing

✔ Healthier – No preservatives, artificial flavors, or added sugars!✔ Budget-Friendly – Costs a fraction of store-bought dressing.✔ Quick & Easy – Ready in less than 2 minutes!✔ Versatile – Use it on salads, grain bowls, roasted veggies, or as a marinade!

The Recipe: My Go-To Easy Dressing

Ingredients:

• ¼ cup olive oil (extra virgin for the best flavor)

• 1/2 tbsp Dijon mustard (adds creaminess & tang)

• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (or any vinegar you like!)

• ½ tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp Italian seasoning

• 1 teaspoon of honey

• Optional add-ins to elevate the dressing- one small chopped shallot or a clove of garlic. If you choose to add these first combine them just with the balsamic vinegar and let me sit a few minutes before adding the other ingredients.

Instructions:

1. Add all ingredients to a small mason jar or bowl.

2. Whisk or shake the jar until fully combined and emulsified.

3. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed!

📌 Pro Tip: Store in the fridge for up to a week. If it thickens, just let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before using!

Why This Dressing is Better Than Store-Bought

🥗 No Unhealthy Oils – Most store dressings contain canola or soybean oil, which can be inflammatory. Making your own with olive oil gives you heart-healthy fats instead!

🥗 No Added Sugars – Many store dressings sneak in corn syrup or sugar. This one gets natural sweetness from balsamic vinegar and honey!

🥗 Way Cheaper! – A good-quality store-bought dressing costs $4–6 per bottle. This homemade version? Pennies per serving!

Ways to Use This Dressing

This tangy, herby, and slightly creamy vinaigrette works for so much more than just salads!

🥗 Salads – Drizzle over mixed greens, arugula, or kale.🥙 Wraps & Sandwiches – Use as a flavorful spread.🍗 Marinades – Coat chicken, fish, or tofu before grilling!🥦 Roasted Veggies – Toss with warm veggies for extra flavor.

📌 Pro Tip: Double the recipe and keep it in the fridge so it’s always ready to use!

Why This Homemade Dressing is a Must-Try!

Once you start making your own easy, flavorful dressing, you’ll never go back to store-bought! It’s healthier, cheaper, and tastes SO much better.

If you make this, tag me on Instagram @Weeknight_Homemaker—I’d love to see how you use it!

Happy cooking! 

🥗💛Lauren

The Weeknight Homemaker