Fresh Basil Vinaigrette
This bright and herbaceous vinaigrette is a lighter, fresher alternative to pesto that makes any salad or grilled dish pop.
recipesbynani.comI absolutely love pesto, but sometimes it can feel a bit too rich when I just want to dress a simple salad. This basil vinaigrette gives you all that lovely garden fresh flavor with far less oil and no heavy nuts or cheese. It is perfect for those days when you want something light and vibrant.
The secret to this dressing is a single ice cube. It helps keep the basil cool while you blend it, which prevents the heat of the blade from turning your bright green sauce into a dull brown color. It is a simple trick that keeps your dressing looking as fresh as it tastes for days in the fridge.
🧺 Ingredients
- 1 cup tightly packed fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 teaspoon finely grated garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 pinch ground white or black pepper
- 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 standard ice cube
👩🍳Instructions
- 1
Place the basil leaves, grated garlic, mustard, salt, pepper, vinegar, olive oil, and the ice cube into a small blender or jar.
- 2
Blitz everything together until the mixture is completely smooth and bright green.
- 3
Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, then serve immediately or store in the refrigerator.
💡 Tips
Store this vinaigrette in an airtight container in the fridge where it will stay bright green for up to two days. It is delicious drizzled over roasted cauliflower or carrots, but be sure the vegetables have cooled down slightly so the dressing keeps its vibrant color.
Made this recipe? Let us know how it went.
You might also like
Nani’s Everyday Kale Side Salad
This simple kale salad uses a special massaging technique to turn tough greens into a tender and delicious side dish.
Crisp Apple and Fennel Slaw
This refreshing salad balances crisp apples and aromatic fennel with a tangy dressing for the perfect side dish.
Radicchio and Apple Salad with Maple Mustard Vinaigrette
This vibrant autumn salad perfectly balances bitter greens with crisp apples and a sweet maple dressing.
Crunchy Chickpea and Apple Broccoli Salad
A fresh and vibrant salad packed with crisp apples, broccoli, and a tangy honey mustard dressing.