Perfect Vinaigrette Base Recipe
Creating a homemade vinaigrette can often feel like a daunting task, fraught with uncertainty about the right balance of flavors. After years of experimentation and a fair share of disappointing dressings, I finally crafted the Perfect Vinaigrette Base, a straightforward recipe that ensures consistent results every time. This base eliminates the guesswork, providing a flavorful foundation for your salads, with the right amount of salt fully dissolved into the mixture, while the bright acidity of lemon juice skillfully tames the tang of vinegar. When stored in the refrigerator, this vinaigrette base can last for up to three months, and I find that repurposing a soy sauce bottle makes for an excellent dispenser.
Ingredients
The following table lists the ingredients needed for this Perfect Vinaigrette Base, along with their respective quantities:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Lemon juice | 1/2 cup |
| Cider vinegar | 1/4 cup |
| Salt | 1 1/2 teaspoons |
| Garlic clove | 1 (minced) |
Nutritional Information
The nutritional profile for one serving of the Perfect Vinaigrette Base (yielding approximately 6 ounces, or 12 servings) is as follows:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 4 |
| Total Fat | 0 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 872.5 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 1 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.1 g |
| Sugars | 0.3 g |
| Protein | 0.1 g |
Instructions
To create your Perfect Vinaigrette Base, follow these easy steps:
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Combine Ingredients: In a microwave-safe measuring cup, combine the lemon juice, cider vinegar, salt, and minced garlic clove.
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Heat Mixture: Microwave the mixture for approximately 30 to 45 seconds, or until it is warm but not boiling.
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Dissolve Salt: After warming, stir the mixture thoroughly to ensure that the salt is completely dissolved.
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Store: Pour the liquid into a glass jar, discarding the garlic solids, and seal tightly before refrigerating.
To Make a Salad
Once you have your Perfect Vinaigrette Base ready, you can easily whip up a delicious salad:
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Mix Ingredients: In a salad bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of the Perfect Vinaigrette Base with 1 tablespoon of water, 3 tablespoons of olive oil, and 1/8 teaspoon of black pepper.
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Add Greens: Gently add 6 cups of torn salad greens to the bowl, and if desired, include a small chopped tomato for added flavor and color.
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Toss Together: Toss the salad ingredients together gently to ensure that the dressing evenly coats the greens.
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Adjust Flavor: Taste the salad, and if the dressing seems too strong, don’t hesitate to add another 1 to 2 tablespoons of water to mellow the flavors. This step is particularly important if you’re using mild greens, which may benefit from a lighter dressing.
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Oil Pairing Tip: For the best flavor combination, opt for a mild olive oil if using gentle salad greens, and choose a more robust olive oil for stronger greens, enhancing the overall salad experience.
This Perfect Vinaigrette Base not only simplifies your salad-making process but also allows for flexibility in flavoring to suit your preferences. Enjoy creating vibrant salads with this delightful dressing that transforms everyday greens into a culinary delight.
