In the realm of culinary delights, few dressings can match the versatility and flavor of a classic French dressing or basic vinaigrette. These culinary cornerstones transcend time and cuisine, effortlessly enhancing salads, sandwiches, and grilled meats with their tangy, herbaceous charm. With a symphony of flavors derived from pantry staples like olive oil, vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper, these dressings strike a perfect balance between acidity and richness.
This article presents two variations of this culinary classic: a traditional French dressing and a basic vinaigrette. The traditional French dressing, with its vibrant yellow hue, boasts a harmonious blend of olive oil, vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper, while the basic vinaigrette, in its minimalist elegance, features a simpler combination of olive oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper. Both recipes offer a step-by-step guide, ensuring effortless preparation and consistent results.
Whether you prefer the classic French dressing, with its mustard-infused tang, or the basic vinaigrette, with its clean and versatile flavor profile, these recipes provide a culinary foundation for a myriad of dishes. Drizzle them over a crisp salad, use them as a marinade for grilled meats, or incorporate them into a flavorful dipping sauce – the possibilities are endless.
FRENCH SALAD DRESSING (FRENCH VINAIGRETTE)
A classic everyone should know! Served the true French way, drizzle it over leafy greens and toss lightly. PS A classic French vinaigrette does not have garlic in it, hence why this can be kept for up to 2 weeks.
Provided by Nagi | RecipeTin Eats
Categories Salad
Time 5m
Number Of Ingredients 11
Steps:
- Place ingredients in a jar and shake well until combined. Adjust salt and pepper to taste. Let rest for 5 minutes before using, or keep up to 2 weeks.
- Small Batch: Use to dress 4 handfuls of leafy greens.
CLASSIC VINAIGRETTE
Ditch the bottled stuff and whisk up a batch of this workhorse vinaigrette.
Provided by Food Network Kitchen
Time 5m
Yield 1 cup
Number Of Ingredients 4
Steps:
- Whisk together the vinegar, mustard and a generous pinch of salt in a small bowl. Gradually whisk in the oil, starting with a few drops and then adding the rest in a steady stream to make a smooth, slightly thick dressing. Whisk in a couple turns of freshly ground black pepper.
GREEN SALAD WITH THE ULTIMATE FRENCH VINAIGRETTE
Provided by Ina Garten Bio & Top Recipes
Categories side-dish
Time 10m
Yield 6 to 8 servings
Number Of Ingredients 7
Steps:
- In a two-cup glass measure, whisk together the vinegar, mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper. Slowly add the olive oil and continue whisking until the vinaigrette is emulsified. Toss the greens with enough dressing to moisten and serve.
OUR FAVORITE BALSAMIC VINAIGRETTE
This vinaigrette does not separate for at least 30 minutes once you shake it! Simple, sweet, and savory.
Provided by Singer6
Categories Side Dish Sauces and Condiments Recipes Salad Dressing Recipes Vinaigrette Dressing Recipes
Time 10m
Yield 8
Number Of Ingredients 7
Steps:
- Combine the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, shallot, garlic, salt, and black pepper together in a glass jar with a lid. Replace lid on the jar and shake vigorously until thoroughly combined.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 132.8 calories, Carbohydrate 3.2 g, Fat 13.5 g, Fiber 0.1 g, Protein 0.2 g, SaturatedFat 1.9 g, Sodium 38 mg, Sugar 2.1 g
CLASSIC VINAIGRETTE
This classic dressing is easy to make at home, and stores in the jar for up to a week
Provided by Good Food team
Categories Buffet, Condiment, Dinner, Lunch, Side dish, Snack, Supper
Time 5m
Yield Easily doubled
Number Of Ingredients 3
Steps:
- Put the mustard, vinegar and olive oil in a jar and season. Shake vigorously to mix. Store in a cool place (not the fridge) until ready to use. Use for all your salads or try one of our recipes, right. Vinaigrette will keep for a week.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 102 calories, Fat 11 grams fat, SaturatedFat 2 grams saturated fat, Sodium 0.29 milligram of sodium
FRENCH DRESSING OR BASIC VINAIGRETTE
Provided by Marion Cunningham
Categories Quick & Easy Salad Dressing
Yield Serves 4
Number Of Ingredients 4
Steps:
- In a small bowl mix the vinegar and salt and let stand a few minutes. Add the pepper and slowly whisk in the oil. Taste for acid and salt and add more if too bland. Stir to blend before using, or store in a jar with a tight lid and shake well before using.
- Mustardy French Dressing.
- Add 1 to 1 1/2 teaspoons Dijon mustard. Blend well. Include onion and garlic, if desired.
- Onion or Garlic French Dressing.
- Add 1 to 2 tablespoons minced onion, scallions, or shallots or 1/2-1 teaspoon minced garlic.
- French Dressing with Fresh Herbs.
- Add 2 teaspoons fresh chopped herbs, such as basil, chervil or tarragon.
- Curried French Dressing.
- Add 1 teaspoon curry powder and blend well.
- Cream French Dressing.
- Add 3 tablespoons heavy cream or sour cream and blend well.
- Fruit Salad French Dressing.
- Use lemon juice instead of vinegar and add 1/3 cup honey. Blend well.
- Blue Cheese Dressing.
- Add 3 tablespoons crumbled blue cheese. Blend well.
- Cumberland Dressing.
- Add 1 tablespoon heavy cream, 1 tablespoon currant jelly, and 1/4 teaspoon grated lemon rind. Mix until well blended.
- Chiffonade Dressing.
- Add 1 tablespoon minced parsley, 2 tablespoons minced red pepper, 1 tablespoon minced onion, and 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped fine. Blend all ingredients well.
CLASSIC FRENCH VINAIGRETTE
Simple, bright flavors are the hallmark of this vinaigrette. Toss it with tender, leafy greens and serve as a light side salad.
Provided by Martha Stewart
Categories Food & Cooking Cuisine-Inspired Recipes French Recipes
Number Of Ingredients 7
Steps:
- Combine in a large bowl or jar the shallot, Dijon mustard, salt, lemon juice, and red-wine vinegar. Whisk together to combine well. Slowly whisk in 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Store jar in refrigerator if making ahead and shake well before using.
- Serve with 2 large heads Bibb, butter, or romaine lettuce that has been washed and dried well. Tear lettuce leaves into bite-size pieces and toss with dressing.
FRENCH DRESSING
Spruce up a simple green salad with a French dressing. Made with olive oil, white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard and seasoning, it's quick and easy to make
Provided by Miriam Nice
Categories Condiment
Time 5m
Yield Serves 2-3
Number Of Ingredients 4
Steps:
- Whisk the Dijon mustard, white wine vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, a pinch of sugar, and salt and pepper together in a small bowl, or shake together in a jam jar.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 87 calories, Fat 10 grams fat, SaturatedFat 1 grams saturated fat, Protein 0.1 grams protein, Sodium 0.09 milligram of sodium
Tips:
- For a classic French Dressing or Basic Vinaigrette, use a 3:1 ratio of oil to vinegar.
- Use extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
- Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
- Use fresh herbs, such as parsley, chives, or basil, for extra flavor.
- Add a squeeze of lemon or lime juice for a brighter flavor.
- Use a whisk or a fork to emulsify the dressing.
- Let the dressing sit for a few minutes before using to allow the flavors to meld.
- Store the dressing in a jar or bottle with a tight-fitting lid in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Conclusion:
French Dressing or Basic Vinaigrette is a versatile dressing that can be used on salads, vegetables, and even meat. It is easy to make and can be tailored to your own taste preferences. With a few simple ingredients and a few minutes of your time, you can have a delicious and healthy dressing that will elevate any dish. So next time you are looking for a quick and easy way to add flavor to your food, try making your own French Dressing or Basic Vinaigrette. You won't be disappointed!
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