Are you tired of bland, store-bought salad dressings that lack excitement? Get ready to transform your salads with this mouthwatering Tomato Herb Salad Dressing that will make your taste buds dance! This Italian-inspired recipe is not just a dressing; it's a flavor explosion that takes mere minutes to prepare and will elevate even the simplest of salads from ordinary to extraordinary.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 5 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 1 cup
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh herbs (basil, parsley, or oregano)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients and ensure they are fresh and at room temperature for optimal flavor blending.
- Peel and finely mince the garlic clove using a sharp knife or a garlic press to release its aromatic oils.
- Select fresh herbs and wash them thoroughly under cool running water, then pat dry with clean paper towels.
- Finely chop the selected herbs (basil, parsley, or oregano) using a sharp knife to release their essential oils and maximize flavor.
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, red wine vinegar, and Dijon mustard.
- Whisk the ingredients vigorously to create an initial emulsion, ensuring the mustard helps bind the oil and vinegar together.
- Add the minced garlic and chopped fresh herbs to the mixture.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, starting with a small amount and adjusting as needed.
- Whisk all ingredients together until well combined and the dressing appears smooth and slightly thickened.
- Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs as desired.
- Transfer the dressing to a clean glass jar or salad dressing container with a tight-fitting lid.
- Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld together.
- Shake or whisk briefly before drizzling over your favorite salad.
Tips
- Use the freshest ingredients possible - the quality of your herbs and garlic will make a significant difference in the final flavor.
- Room temperature ingredients blend more smoothly, so let olive oil and other components sit out for a few minutes before mixing.
- For the most vibrant flavor, use freshly chopped herbs rather than dried.
- Invest in a good quality extra virgin olive oil and red wine vinegar - they're the foundation of this dressing.
- Always taste and adjust seasoning gradually to achieve the perfect balance.
- Store the dressing in a glass jar with a tight lid and it will keep in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- For a smoother consistency, use an immersion blender or small food processor to emulsify the ingredients.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 62kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
