We all know apple cider vinegar (ACV) for its potential health benefits, but did you know it can also be the star of a delicious and versatile salad dressing? This simple Apple Cider Vinaigrette recipe is quick to whisk together, bursting with flavor, and will elevate your salads from ordinary to extraordinary. Say goodbye to store-bought dressings packed with unnecessary ingredients and hello to a bright, tangy, and naturally wholesome alternative!
Why You'll Love This Apple Cider Vinaigrette:
Simple Ingredients: You likely have most of these pantry staples on hand already.
Quick & Easy: It takes less than 5 minutes to whip up.
Deliciously Tangy: The perfect balance of acidity and
subtle sweetness.
Versatile: Not just for salads! Use it as a marinade or a
drizzle for roasted vegetables.
Healthier Option: No artificial flavors, preservatives, or
excessive sodium.
The Star of the Show: Apple Cider Vinegar
Unfiltered apple cider vinegar, the kind with the "mother," is our preference for this recipe. The "mother" contains beneficial bacteria, enzymes, and proteins that contribute to ACV's cloudy appearance and potential health perks. Its complex flavor profile adds a unique depth to the vinaigrette that you won't find with other vinegars.
What You'll Need:
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (preferably unfiltered
with the "mother")
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (adds creaminess and a subtle
spice)
1/2 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (for a touch of sweetness
to balance the tang)
1 small clove garlic, minced (for a hint of aromatic
flavor)
Pinch of salt
Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together
the extra virgin olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey or maple
syrup, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
Emulsify: Whisk vigorously until the dressing is well
combined and slightly thickened (emulsified). If using a jar, you can simply
screw on the lid tightly and shake well until emulsified.
Taste and Adjust: Give the vinaigrette a taste and adjust
the seasonings as needed. You might want a little more tang (add more ACV),
sweetness (add more honey/maple syrup), or salt and pepper to your preference.
Serve: Drizzle generously over your favorite salads. This
vinaigrette pairs particularly well with hearty greens like kale and spinach,
as well as salads containing fruits, nuts, and cheese.
Store: Store any leftover vinaigrette in an airtight
container in the refrigerator for up to one week. You may need to whisk or
shake it again before using as the oil and vinegar may separate.
Tips and Variations:
Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little
heat.
Herb Infusion: Stir in some finely chopped fresh herbs like
chives, parsley, or dill for an extra layer of flavor.
Creamier Texture: For a creamier dressing, whisk in a
tablespoon of plain Greek yogurt or tahini.
Shallot Substitute: If you don't have garlic, a finely
minced shallot works beautifully.
Sweetness Level: Adjust the amount of honey or maple syrup
to your liking. You can also use other sweeteners like agave nectar.
Beyond Salads:
Don't limit this delicious vinaigrette to just salads! Try
using it as:
A marinade for chicken or pork.
A drizzle over roasted vegetables like broccoli, Brussels
sprouts, or sweet potatoes.
A light dressing for grain bowls or pasta salads.
A flavorful dipping sauce for crudités.
This Apple Cider Vinaigrette is a simple yet powerful
recipe that will transform your everyday meals. It's a testament to how a few
high-quality ingredients can come together to create something truly delicious
and good for you. So ditch the store-bought stuff and embrace the tangy
goodness of homemade! Enjoy!
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