Herbed Apple Cider Vinaigrette Recipe
Imagine a bright, tangy dressing that transforms your salads into sensational dishes. This Herbed Apple Cider Vinaigrette is just that—a delightful blend of flavors that elevate any meal. Perfect for drizzling over fresh greens or using as a marinade, it’s a versatile recipe you can whip up in no time.
This vinaigrette perfectly balances the sweet and tart notes of apple cider with a medley of fragrant herbs. It’s not just a dressing; it’s a way to bring freshness and zest to your everyday meals. The best part? You can customize the herbs to your liking, making it a personalized addition to your kitchen repertoire.
Crafting Your Herbed Apple Cider Vinaigrette
Creating this herbed apple cider vinaigrette is straightforward and fast, taking just about five minutes to prepare. The vibrant blend of ingredients is designed to complement a variety of dishes, particularly salads bursting with fresh produce.
Start by gathering apple cider vinegar, extra-virgin olive oil, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and a selection of fresh herbs of your choice. These components work together to create a dressing that is both bright and flavorful.
Balancing Flavors
The key to a successful vinaigrette lies in balancing the sweet and tangy notes. The apple cider vinegar delivers a refreshing tartness, while the honey or maple syrup introduces a hint of sweetness. This equilibrium is essential for a well-rounded dressing.
Incorporating Dijon mustard adds a pleasant depth, enhancing the overall flavor profile. Don’t forget the minced garlic, which contributes a robust aroma and a hint of spice that elevates the vinaigrette.
Emulsification Process
To achieve a smooth consistency, whisk the apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, and garlic together in a bowl. Gradually add the olive oil while continuously whisking. This technique emulsifies the dressing, ensuring a cohesive mixture that clings beautifully to salad ingredients.
This process is crucial for creating a vinaigrette that doesn’t separate easily, allowing you to enjoy every drop of flavor.
Herb Selection and Personalization
The choice of herbs can greatly influence the character of the vinaigrette. Popular options include thyme, parsley, or basil, each bringing its own unique taste. Feel free to experiment with different combinations to find your perfect blend.
Chop the herbs finely and stir them into the vinaigrette, adjusting the seasoning with salt and pepper according to your preference. This is where you can truly make the recipe your own.
Storage and Usage Tips
Once mixed, transfer the vinaigrette to a jar with a tight lid, making it easy to store in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld beautifully, and it can last for up to a week when stored properly.
Before using, give the jar a good shake to re-emulsify the dressing. This herbed apple cider vinaigrette is perfect for drizzling over mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber slices, or as a marinade for grilled meats and roasted vegetables.
Enhancing Your Meals
This vinaigrette is not just a dressing; it’s an enhancement tool for many dishes. Its vibrant flavor can elevate a simple salad into a delightful culinary experience.
Whether served over a bed of greens or as a dip for fresh vegetables, this herbed apple cider vinaigrette is sure to impress. Experiment with various salads and dishes to truly appreciate its versatility and flavor.
A Simple and Flavorful Herbed Vinaigrette
This apple cider vinaigrette features a harmonious blend of apple cider vinegar, olive oil, and fresh herbs. The taste is vibrant and refreshing with a hint of sweetness, making it an ideal complement to salads, roasted vegetables, or grilled meats.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh herbs (such as thyme, parsley, or basil) finely chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic until well combined.
- Add Olive Oil: Gradually drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously to emulsify the dressing.
- Incorporate Herbs: Stir in the freshly chopped herbs and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Store: Transfer the vinaigrette to a jar with a tight-fitting lid and refrigerate. Shake well before using.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Servings: 8 servings
- Calories: 120kcal
- Fat: 14g
- Protein: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
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