Basil Tomato Vinaigrette
There's nothing quite like the smell of fresh basil mingling with ripe tomatoes to make your kitchen feel like summer. This basil tomato vinaigrette comes together in minutes and turns any simple salad into something unforgettable.
Simple, everyday ingredients and clear, step-by-step instructions — every recipe made in Dorothy’s kitchen before it reaches yours. Jump to the full recipe card below.
Basil Tomato Vinaigrette
A bright, garlicky basil tomato vinaigrette made with fresh basil, ripe tomatoes, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar, ready in just 5 minutes.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, packed
- 1 medium ripe tomato, roughly chopped
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, peeled
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Add the basil leaves, chopped tomato, and garlic clove to a blender or food processor.
- Pour in the balsamic vinegar, red wine vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard.
- Season with salt and black pepper.
- Blend on low speed while slowly streaming in the olive oil, until the vinaigrette is smooth and emulsified.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or vinegar to balance the flavor.
- Pour into a jar or airtight container and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
- Shake or whisk well before drizzling over salads, grilled vegetables, or proteins.
Notes
Store this basil tomato vinaigrette in an airtight jar in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The olive oil may solidify when chilled, so let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes and shake well before using. For a smoother texture, strain out the tomato seeds before blending.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does basil tomato vinaigrette last in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, this basil tomato vinaigrette stays fresh for up to 5 days. Give it a good shake before each use since the ingredients naturally separate over time.
Can I make basil tomato vinaigrette ahead of time?
Yes, this vinaigrette actually tastes better after sitting for at least 30 minutes, as the basil and tomato flavors have time to infuse into the oil and vinegar.
What can I use basil tomato vinaigrette on besides salad?
This versatile vinaigrette is delicious drizzled over grilled chicken, fish, roasted vegetables, or even as a dipping sauce for fresh mozzarella and crusty bread.
Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
Fresh basil is strongly recommended for the best flavor and vibrant green color in this basil tomato vinaigrette, but if needed, you can substitute 1 tablespoon of dried basil, though the taste will be less bright.
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