Anyone who cooks, knows that the secret to flavor in recipes is in the sauces and spices. Here, this creamy basil vinaigrette combines fresh basil with a combination garlic, shallot, lemon and spices to create the smoothest tangy vinaigrette dressing that can be used to enhance a variety of dishes.
Ingredients
Extra virgin olive oil
Red wine vinegar
Garlic
Greek oregano
Shallot
Fresh basil (pack the measuring cup)
Lemon juice (fresh squeezed)
Honey
Salt and pepper
Creole mustard
Instructions
Making a dressing is usually a simple task, and this vinaigrette is no exception. Chop the basil, shallot and garlic and toss in the blender with the lemon juice, mustard, honey, salt and pepper, oregano and red wine vinegar.
Start blending on low, and as you do, drizzle the olive oil. Continue blending until the dressing is creamy and smooth.
What To Serve With Creamy Basil Vinaigrette
We are always looking for and creating new sauces and dressings to up the flavor of ordinary dishes. It is a foodie thing to focus on the flavor! This creamy basil vinaigrette is the most versatile dressing that you could make and you will find many opportunities to use it to make your food tastier. The fresh basil and garlic create a flavor combination that goes well with many foods--meats, fish, sandwiches or pasta.
You can use it on salads (see Easy Roasted Greek Chicken Salad), pita sandwiches (Greek Chicken Fajita Pita,) or as a base for a yummy pasta dish, either with meat or vegetarian/vegan.
This dressing is vegetarian and gluten free, and will keep for one week in the refrigerator. If you prefer a vegan recipe, substitute maple syrup for the honey.
Tips For Preparing Basil Vinaigrette
- When preparing the basil for the dressing, rinse well to remove any grit or dirt. Remove stems when possible for a smoother flavor.
- When blending the dressing, add all ingredients except olive oil first, and start blending on low speed. Drizzle olive oil as the dressing blends.
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