Summer Basil Salad

This vibrant Summer Basil Salad dressing brings a burst of fresh flavor to any bowl of greens. The base relies on the gentle sweetness of rice vinegar balanced by the sharp tang of Dijon mustard and aromatic minced garlic. A touch of olive oil emulsifies the mixture, creating a smooth, cohesive coating that clings beautifully to crisp lettuce leaves. It is an incredibly quick preparation, requiring no cooking and just a few pantry staples. This light, vegan-friendly dressing is ideal for warm-weather lunches, garden parties, or as a refreshing side dish alongside grilled meats. Its simple profile allows the natural flavors of the vegetables to shine through, making it a versatile addition to your weekly meal rotation.

Cooking Method: Boiling, Steaming

Cuisine: American

Courses: Salads

Difficulty: Beginner

Servings: 6

Calories: 42.0

Dietary: Gluten-free, Vegan, Vegetarian

Description

This vibrant Summer Basil Salad dressing brings a burst of fresh flavor to any bowl of greens. The base relies on the gentle sweetness of rice vinegar balanced by the sharp tang of Dijon mustard and aromatic minced garlic. A touch of olive oil emulsifies the mixture, creating a smooth, cohesive coating that clings beautifully to crisp lettuce leaves. It is an incredibly quick preparation, requiring no cooking and just a few pantry staples. This light, vegan-friendly dressing is ideal for warm-weather lunches, garden parties, or as a refreshing side dish alongside grilled meats. Its simple profile allows the natural flavors of the vegetables to shine through, making it a versatile addition to your weekly meal rotation.

Ingredients

1/2 cup Sweet rice vinegar
3 teaspoon Sugar (or sugar substitute)
2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 1/2 teaspoon Salt (optional)
2 Cloves Minced garlic
1 1/2 teaspoon Olive oil

Directions

1
In a small bowl or jar, combine the sweet rice vinegar, sugar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and salt.
2
Whisk vigorously or shake the jar until the sugar and salt are completely dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
3
Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously to emulsify the dressing.
4
Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or sugar if desired.
5
Pour the dressing over your prepared salad greens and toss gently to coat evenly before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 6

Amount Per Serving
Calories 42.0kcal

% Daily Value *
Total Fat 2.0g4%
Saturated Fat 0.3g2%
Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
Sodium 7334.3mg306%
Total Carbohydrate 4.8g2%
Dietary Fiber 0.1g1%
Sugars 3.8g
Protein 0.3g1%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

For a thicker dressing, increase the amount of olive oil gradually until your preferred consistency is reached.

If you prefer a milder garlic flavor, let the minced garlic sit in the vinegar for 10 minutes before adding the oil, which helps mellow the sharpness.

This dressing can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Shake well before reusing as separation is natural.

Fresh basil leaves can be added directly to the salad greens for extra aroma, though they are not included in the dressing ingredients list provided.

Keywords: basil, salad, dressing, vinaigrette, rice vinegar, dijon mustard, garlic, olive oil, vegan, summer, fresh, healthy, quick, easy, side dish, lunch, vegetarian, gluten free, light, refreshing

Read it online: https://www.chefs-mate.com/recipe/summer-basil-salad/