TheHerbProf.com is a treasure trove of knowledge for those interested in natural healing and herbal remedies. The website is run by Paul Johnston MD. A naturopathic who has not only received extensive education in the field but also has personal experience in self-healing.
Herb vinaigrette is a versatile and flavorful salad dressing that can be made with a variety of fresh herbs, olive oil, vinegar, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and sugar. As a food lover, I always find myself experimenting with different salad dressings to add a burst of flavor to my salads. Herb vinaigrette is one of my favorites because it’s easy to make, healthy, and delicious.
One of the best things about herb vinaigrette is that you can customize it to your liking. You can use any combination of fresh herbs that you have on hand, such as basil, cilantro, parsley, or thyme. You can also adjust the amount of vinegar, lemon juice, salt, and sugar to suit your taste. The result is a dressing that is unique to your palate and preferences. Additionally, using olive oil as the base of the dressing provides healthy fats that are essential for our body to function properly.
In this article, I will share my go-to herb vinaigrette recipe that is simple, healthy, and delicious. I will also provide tips on how to customize the recipe to your liking and suggest different ways to use herb vinaigrette beyond just salads. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, I hope this article will inspire you to try making your own herb vinaigrette at home.
Ingredients and Directions
Benefits of Fresh Herbs
I absolutely love using fresh herbs in my cooking, and herb vinaigrette is no exception. Not only do they add a burst of flavor, but they also provide several health benefits. For instance, basil is a great source of Vitamin C and antioxidants, while parsley is rich in Vitamin K and has anti-inflammatory properties. By using fresh herbs in your vinaigrette, you’re not only adding flavor but also packing in some extra nutrients.
Making Ahead and Nutrition Facts
Making your own herb vinaigrette is a great way to get a simple, homemade salad dressing that’s packed with flavor. Here’s a basic recipe to get you started:
| Ingredients | Amount |
|---|---|
| Extra-virgin olive oil | ⅓ cup |
| Vinegar (such as red-wine, champagne, white balsamic or rice) | ⅓ cup |
| Fresh herbs (such as basil, chives, cilantro, dill, oregano and/or tarragon) or dried herbs | 3 tablespoons chopped or 1 tablespoon dried |
| Shallots, finely chopped | 2 tablespoons |
| Lime or lemon juice | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt | ¼ teaspoon |
| Pepper | ¼ teaspoon |
Directions:
- In a jar with a tight-fitting lid, combine all ingredients.
- Shake well.
- Serve over greens.
This recipe is super easy to make and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you’re looking for nutrition information, here’s an estimate of what you can expect per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 |
| Fat | 14g |
| Sodium | 75mg |
| Protein | 0g |
| Daily Value | 2% DV Calcium, 4% DV Iron |
Overall, making your own herb vinaigrette is a great way to add some flavor to your salads without all the added sugars and preservatives found in store-bought dressings. Plus, by using fresh herbs, you’re adding some extra nutrients to your diet. Give it a try and let me know what you think!
Variations and Uses of Herb Vinaigrette
As a versatile dressing and marinade, herb vinaigrette is a must-have in any kitchen. It is a perfect way to add flavor to a dish and is a super yummy staple in any kitchen.
Dressing and Marinade
Herb vinaigrette can be used as a salad dressing or marinade. It is a quick and easy way to add flavor to your greens, roasted vegetables, and meats. For a simple yet delicious salad, toss mixed greens with herb vinaigrette and top with your favorite toppings.
To use herb vinaigrette as a marinade, simply marinate your meat or vegetables in the vinaigrette for at least 30 minutes before cooking. The tangy and herbaceous flavors will infuse into your food, making it juicy and flavorful.
Recommended Products
Making herb vinaigrette is easy and requires only a few ingredients. To make it at home, you will need fresh herbs, olive oil, lemon juice, dijon mustard, and salt. You can use a mason jar, blender, or food processor to make the vinaigrette.
If you don’t have time to make your own herb vinaigrette, there are many high-quality options available in stores. Look for vinaigrettes made with fresh herbs and simple ingredients.
As a registered dietitian, I recommend using herb vinaigrette as a healthier alternative to creamy salad dressings. It is low in calories and fat, and the herbs provide many health benefits. Herb vinaigrette is also a great dipping sauce for vegetables or a dressing for a brussel sprout salad.
Herb vinaigrette is a delicious and healthy addition to any meal. With its tangy and herbaceous flavors, it is sure to elevate any dish. Whether you make it at home or buy it from the store, herb vinaigrette is a must-try for any food lover.
Recipe Video and Additional Recipes
If you’re looking for an easy recipe for Herb Vinaigrette, you’re in luck! I found a great video tutorial that walks you through the steps. All you need is extra-virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Simply whisk everything together and you’re done!
If you’re looking for more recipes to try, here are a few of my favorites:
Garlic and Herb Vinaigrette
This recipe is a classic and always a crowd-pleaser. It’s perfect for salads, sandwiches, and even as a marinade for chicken or fish. You can find the recipe here.
French Onion Soup
This soup is a comforting classic that’s perfect for chilly days. It’s made with caramelized onions, beef broth, and thyme. You can find the recipe here.
Chicken Gnocchi Soup
This soup is hearty and flavorful, perfect for a cozy night in. It’s made with chicken, gnocchi, and a creamy broth. You can find the recipe here.
Whether you’re in the mood for a salad dressing or a comforting soup, these recipes are sure to satisfy.
Before You Go – Herb Vinaigrette
Easy Salad Dressings
Making your own herb vinaigrette is a simple and delicious way to elevate your salads. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a flavorful dressing that is healthier and tastier than store-bought options.
To make a fresh vinaigrette, you will need olive oil, vinegar, fresh herbs, lemon juice, honey, and mustard. You can use any combination of herbs you like, such as basil, parsley, thyme, or mint. Simply whisk together the ingredients in a bowl or shake them up in a jar for a quick and easy dressing.
If you’re looking for other easy salad dressing ideas, try mixing together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and honey for a sweet and tangy dressing. Or, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, and oregano for a classic Greek dressing.
Overall, making your own salad dressings allows you to control the ingredients and customize the flavors to your liking. Experiment with different herbs, oils, and vinegars to find your perfect combination.
Herb Vinaigrette Linking To Our Home Page
As your enthusiastic Herbalist Blogger, I’m thrilled to share these recipes with you. Our homepage at theherbprof.com is your herbal haven, packed with information about the wonderful world of herbs. Now, let’s talk about herb vinaigrettes. These flavorful concoctions not only add a zing to your meals, but they’re also packed with health benefits. But wait, there’s more! Our homepage provides detailed profiles of these herbs, their health benefits, and how to use them.
References – Herb Vinaigrette
Little Herb Encyclopedia, by Jack Ritchason; N.D., Woodland Publishing Incorporated, 1995
The Ultimate Healing System, Course Manual, Copyright 1985, Don Lepore
Planetary Herbology, Michael Tierra, C.A., N.D., Lotus Press, 1988
Handbook of Medicinal Herbs, by James A. Duke, Pub. CRP Second Edition 2007
The Complete Medicinal Herbal, by Penelope Ody, Published by Dorling Kindersley
Check the Following Articles!
Lemon Balm Tea Recipe: Boost Your Mood Now!
Herb Jars: The Ultimate Guide to Storing Your Herbs
Herb Keeper: The Best Way to Store Fresh Herbs
Frequently Asked Questions – Herb Vinaigrette
How many calories are typically in a serving of herb vinaigrette?
The calorie count in herb vinaigrette will depend on the specific recipe. However, a typical serving size of vinaigrette is around 2 tablespoons, which contains approximately 60-80 calories. It is important to note that the calorie count can vary depending on the ingredients used.
What are some recipes for making herb vinaigrette with dried herbs?
Making herb vinaigrette with dried herbs is a great way to add flavor to your salads. One recipe you can try is mixing together 1/4 cup of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of red wine vinegar, 1 tablespoon of dried basil, 1 tablespoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of honey, and salt and pepper to taste. Another recipe is to whisk together 1/4 cup of olive oil, 1/4 cup of white wine vinegar, 1 tablespoon of dried thyme, 1 tablespoon of dried rosemary, 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, and salt and pepper to taste.
How can I create a creamy version of an herb vinaigrette?
To create a creamy version of herb vinaigrette, you can add ingredients such as Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, or sour cream. For example, you can mix together 1/4 cup of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of white wine vinegar, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon of Greek yogurt, 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh chives, and salt and pepper to taste.
What ingredients are used in a classic fresh herb vinaigrette?
A classic fresh herb vinaigrette typically includes olive oil, vinegar (such as red wine vinegar or white wine vinegar), Dijon mustard, fresh herbs (such as basil, thyme, or oregano), garlic, and salt and pepper to taste.
Is it possible to purchase pre-made basil vinaigrette, and where can I find it?
Yes, it is possible to purchase pre-made basil vinaigrette. Many grocery stores carry a variety of pre-made vinaigrettes, including basil vinaigrette. You can also find pre-made vinaigrettes online or at specialty food stores.
What variations can be made to a traditional herb vinaigrette using balsamic or lemon?
To make a variation of herb vinaigrette using balsamic, you can substitute balsamic vinegar for the red or white wine vinegar. For a lemon variation, you can add lemon juice and zest to the vinaigrette in place of the vinegar. Additionally, you can experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor combinations.
