Simple and delicious balsamic vinaigrette dressing made with a few pantry staples. This real-food dressing is ideal for salads, grain bowls, roasted vegetables, and more. Naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and free from refined sugars.
For more easy homemade dressings, try the maple Dijon vinaigrette or a dairy-free ranch dressing recipe.
Skip store-bought dressings that often contain refined oils, added sugars, gums, and preservatives—this homemade balsamic vinaigrette is fresher, healthier, and just as fast to make.
When practicing clean eating, swapping store-bought dressings for homemade versions is an easy change (clean eating taco seasoning mix is another simple swap). Homemade dressings are quick to make and more economical than many prepared options.
This balsamic vinaigrette takes about five minutes to prepare, and you likely have everything you need in your pantry.
Why This Dressing Works
- Quick and simple – Ready in under five minutes with no special equipment. Shake or whisk and it’s ready.
- Pantry-friendly – Most of the ingredients are common staples in the fridge and pantry.
- Real food ingredients – No refined oils, refined sugars, gums, or preservatives.
- Versatile and adjustable – Great on mixed greens, grain bowls, roasted vegetables, and more. Easily tweak sweetness or tang to suit your taste.
Ingredient Notes
A full ingredient list with amounts is in the recipe card below. Notes to help you choose ingredients:
- Honey – Swap for pure maple syrup to make the dressing vegan.
- Extra-virgin olive oil – Provides a robust, peppery flavor. Avocado oil works as a milder alternative.
Clean food tips:
Choose a Dijon mustard without added sugar or preservatives—organic varieties are often a safer bet. Use a quality extra-virgin olive oil for both flavor and health benefits. Honey should be raw and unfiltered if possible.
How to Make
Making this dressing is easy.
- Add all ingredients to a mason jar or small bowl. If using a jar, cover and shake until emulsified. If using a bowl, whisk vigorously until combined.
Tips for the Best Homemade Balsamic Vinaigrette
- Choose extra-virgin olive oil. A good extra-virgin olive oil makes a noticeable difference in flavor. Dark glass bottles and a recent harvest date are signs of quality.
- Pick a quality balsamic vinegar. Look for balsamic vinegar of Modena with proper labeling for consistent flavor.
- Taste and adjust. Add more honey for sweetness or more vinegar for brightness until it suits your preference.
- Emulsify by shaking. Using a mason jar or airtight container and shaking vigorously creates a creamier, more cohesive dressing.
Ways to Use Balsamic Vinaigrette
This dressing works far beyond a basic salad. Try it as:
- A drizzle on roasted vegetables, like Brussels sprouts and sweet potatoes.
- A simple marinade for chicken.
- A dressing for a strawberry and spinach salad with toasted pecans.
- A finishing touch for grain bowls or pasta salads.
It’s excellent on fruit-and-greens salads or swapped into superfood-style salads for a tangy finish. The uses are many and flexible.
How to Store
Use the dressing immediately or store leftovers in an airtight container, such as a small mason jar, in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to one week.
⭐ Note: True extra-virgin olive oil can solidify when chilled. Let the dressing sit at room temperature for a few minutes and shake well before using.
Recipe FAQs
Yes—substitute pure maple syrup for honey.
Oil and vinegar separate naturally. Dijon mustard helps emulsify the mixture, but separation is normal—just shake or stir before using.
Yes. Extra-virgin olive oil lends a rich flavor; avocado oil gives a milder profile. Use a high-quality oil for the best taste and nutrition.
More Homemade Dressing Recipes
- Maple Dijon Dressing
- Easy Dairy-free Ranch Dressing {Paleo friendly}
- Creamy Cilantro Lime Dressing (dairy free)
If you make this recipe, please let me know what you think—a star rating or a comment is appreciated. Share a photo on Instagram or Facebook and mention @CleanPlateMama!
Eat Clean. Be Well!
-Sara
Balsamic Vinaigrette Dressing
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Equipment
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1 mason jar
Ingredients
- ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tbsp. honey
- 2 tsp. Dijon mustard
- ½ tsp. fine sea salt
Instructions
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Add all ingredients to a mason jar or small bowl. If in a jar, cover and shake until emulsified. If using a bowl, whisk vigorously until combined.
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Use immediately or store covered in the refrigerator. Enjoy!
Notes
- Servings: This recipe yields just under 1 cup of dressing, about 8 servings.
- Storing: Keep refrigerated in an airtight container for up to one week. Note that quality extra-virgin olive oil may solidify in the fridge—allow it to warm a few minutes and shake before using.