Basil Vinaigrette – Carmy – Easy Healthy-ish Recipes

June 13, 2023

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Basil Vinaigrette – Carmy – Easy Healthy-ish Recipes

Posted: Jun 13, 2023 Last Modified: Jun 13, 2023 by Carmy · This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate and member of other affiliate programs, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Bright and fresh, this homemade basil vinaigrette is a flavorful herby dressing that is not just for salads! Make a large batch and serve it over some chicken, fish, potatoes, vegetables, or pasta. It’s a wonderfully delicious vinaigrette that only requires 6 simple ingredients.

I love this basil vinaigrette! It’s so easy to make with a few simple ingredients and is easily customizable! It’s perfect during the summer when there’s an abundance of fresh, sweet basil.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

It’s easily customizable! Want more fresh, tart flavor? Add some lemon. Want it spicier? Add some red chili flakes! Want it sweeter? Add some honey!
It’s extremely easy to make. All you have to do is throw everything into a food processor and let it do all the work.
It’s versatile! I love this vinaigrette on salad but also on protein and veggies! It’s SO good on grilled chicken breasts and grilled chicken thighs.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients needed to make basil vinaigrette.

basil — fresh basil is a must for this vinaigrette! Use sweet basil. Thai basil is usually right beside the fresh basil at the store, so make sure you’re grabbing the correct one.
shallots — I like using half to a whole shallot as it has a delicate and sweet flavor with just a hint of sharpness.
garlic — one clove of garlic is enough to add a tiny bit of heat and sharpness.
salt & pepper
oil — use your oil of choice. I like to use olive oil or avocado oil.

How to Make Basil Vinaigrette

Set of two photos showing basil, garlic, and shallots in a food processor and blended with oil.

To a food processor, add the basil, shallot, garlic, salt, pepper, and oil.
Blend it until well combined and smooth.
Season with additional salt and pepper if desired.

A slightly angled view of a jar of basil vinaigrette.

Recipe Tips and Notes

Add a tablespoon of fresh lemon juice and a pinch of lemon zest for some extra brightness to the basil vinaigrette.
For a little bit of extra heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes!
This basil vinaigrette can double as a marinade as well!
Don’t have a food processor? Use a blender instead! This is the food processor I use.
If you are washing the basil leaves beforehand, make sure to pat it dry thoroughly, as any leftover water won’t mix well with the oil.

Overhead view of a small jar of basil vinaigrette.

Make Ahead Tips

This basil vinaigrette will keep in an airtight jar in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It’s normal for vinaigrettes to separate in the fridge. Simply give it a shake before you use it.

Salads to Try

Want some salad recipes to serve with this salad dressing? Try these ones: