Best Healthy Salad Dressing Recipes

This vibrant basil vinaigrette is a celebration of fresh flavors and aromatic herbs blended with the richness of extra virgin olive oil and the tang of red wine vinegar. The subtle hints of garlic, Dijon mustard and a touch of honey create a beautifully balanced dressing that elevates any salad to gourmet status.

I recently discovered this awesome basil vinaigrette that is hands down one of the best healthy salad dressing recipes I’ve ever made. I was really impressed by how simple it was to mix together 1 cup of fresh basil leaves, 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil, and 3 tbsp red wine vinegar with a small garlic clove that’s been minced.

The addition of 1 tsp of Dijon mustard really makes a difference, and for those who enjoy a hint of sweetness, 1 tsp of honey works great. I find that the salt and freshly ground black pepper, 1/2 tsp and 1/4 tsp respectively, bring out the flavors perfectly.

This dressing is not only full of taste but also packed with nutritional benefits and healthy fats from olive oil. Its homemade quality makes it a perfect option when you want a healthy dressing for your salads, something I know many of us are always looking for.

Why I Like this Recipe

I like this recipe because it is super easy to make and all the ingredients are really fresh even though it doesn’t take much time to prepare. I love how the basil, garlic, and red wine vinegar mix together to give it a tangy yet balanced flavor that makes any salad taste amazing. I also really enjoy that I can change up the amount of honey depending on if I’m in the mood for a little sweetness or if I prefer a more zesty kick. Lastly, I appreciate that it’s a healthy alternative to store bought dressings and I feel good knowing exactly what I’m putting into my food.

Ingredients

• Fresh basil leaves offer fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants while adding a bright herbal flavor.
• Extra virgin olive oil provides healthy fats and a silky, rich taste that’s heart friendly.
• Red wine vinegar delivers a tangy punch that cleanses the palate and brightens dishes.
• Garlic brings pungent zest and immune boosting properties to your dressing.
• Dijon mustard adds a spicy kick and helps emulsify the ingredients nicely.
• Honey gives a subtle sweet note balancing the acidity perfectly.
• Salt enhances flavor by drawing out natural tastes from other components.
• Freshly ground black pepper offers a gentle heat and classic seasoning finish.

Ingredient Quantities

• 1 cup fresh basil leaves, packed
• 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 3 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 1 small garlic clove, minced
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp honey (optional for a touch of sweetness)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper

How to Make this

1. Combine the basil leaves, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper in a blender or food processor.

2. Add the Dijon mustard, red wine vinegar, and honey if you’re using it for a little extra sweetness.

3. Pulse the mixture a couple of times until it starts to break down a bit.

4. Slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil while the blender is running to help the dressing emulsify proper.

5. Stop and scrape down the sides if needed so every bit of basil is mixed in.

6. Blend it a few more seconds until the dressing looks smooth but still has a little texture.

7. Taste the dressing and adjust the salt or vinegar if it need more zing.

8. Transfer the dressing to a jar or bowl and let it sit for about 10 minutes before serving so the flavors can meld together.

9. Give it a stir one more time before drizzling it over your salad.

10. Enjoy your homemade basil vinaigrette, and don’t forget to store any leftovers in the fridge for up to a week.

Equipment Needed

1. A blender or food processor – you’ll use this to mix everything together
2. Measuring cups and spoons – for getting that Dijon mustard, vinegar, olive oil, and other ingredients in the right amounts
3. A small knife and cutting board – to mince the garlic and roughly chop the basil if needed
4. A rubber spatula – to scrape down the sides of the blender so that all the basil gets mixed in
5. A jar or bowl – for transferring and letting the dressing sit before serving
6. A stirring spoon – useful for giving the dressing one final stir before you drizzle it over your salad

FAQ

Best Healthy Salad Dressing Recipes Substitutions and Variations

• Basil leaves: You can use fresh parsley or arugula if you dont have basil on hand
• Extra virgin olive oil: Try avocado oil or walnut oil, they give a similar rich flavor
• Red wine vinegar: Apple cider vinegar or even a squeeze of lemon juice might be a good substitute
• Dijon mustard: Yellow mustard works in a pinch, though it might be a bit milder
• Honey: Maple syrup or agave nectar can be used if you want a vegan twist

Pro Tips

1. When you’re blending, pulse it just a few times to keep a bit of texture, rather than making it totally smooth like a liquid.
2. Slowly drizzle the olive oil while the food processor is running so the dressing emulsifes nicely and doesn’t separate.
3. Let it sit for about 10 minutes before using it so all the flavors can really mix together and bring that extra zing.
4. Taste as you go and adjust the salt or vinegar if needed; a little tweak can really bring out the best in your dressing.