This healthy, homemade vinaigrette will literally take you one minute to prepare.

Balsamic vinaigrette is my go-to salad dressing. I love it on everything from avocados, to cottage cheese, to straight-up greens. The only problem is, you can’t buy just any vinaigrette on the market and expect it to be keto-friendly. Most vinaigrettes are LOADED with added sugars.
Of course, there are some brands such as Primal Kitchen that have developed delicious keto-approved recipes, but you’re certainly going to pay for the labor. And I can guarantee they won’t be as tasty as this homemade rendition.
The Secret to the BEST Balsamic Vinaigrette
The key to amazing balsamic vinaigrette is not in the ratio of oil to acid, or in any top-secret ingredients. The key to nailing the flavor lies in the quality of your ingredients.
Choosing High-Quality Oil
The type of oil you select will not only determine the complexity of flavors within your vinaigrette, it also sets the standard for health. Most store-bought vinaigrettes contain highly processed oils such as vegetable, canola, or soybean. The reason being, they’re inexpensive to manufacture and maintain lengthy shelf-lives. The problem with processed oils is that they’re subjected to destructive high-temperature processing methods. Such methods promote significant oxidative stress, and oxidative stress can damage cells, proteins, and DNA. Over time, this stress can lead to oxidative damage, effecting liver function, and contributing to aging.
In short, you’d be wise to select a cold-pressed oil that pairs well with balsamic vinegar. My personal preference would be olive oil, though, avocado oil will work just as well.
What is Cold-Pressed Oil?
Cold pressing is the method of oil extraction without the use of high-heat. Cold-pressed oils maintain a higher standard of flavor and nutritional quality. And if you want to get really anal about it, I would suggest looking for the certifications from either the NAOOA (North American Olive Oil Association) or its European counterpart, IOC (International Olive Council.) Both seals will ensure the highest-quality olive oil.
Selecting Top-Notch Balsamic Vinegar
Although there are many subcategories and designations of balsamic vinegar, there are two main categories to be aware of— Traditional and Balsamic Vinegar of Modena.
Traditional
Traditional balsamic vinegar is the real deal. True balsamic vinegar is aged, promoting complex flavor and enhanced viscosity. Traditional balsamic comes in two classifications: Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale di Modena DOP (Traditional Balsamic Vinegar of Modena) and Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale di Reggio Emilia DOP (Traditional Balsamic Vinegar of Reggio Emilia). These vinegars are aged for 12 to 25 years, making them perhaps more desirable and certainly more expensive.
Balsamic Vinegar of Modena
Balsamic Vinegar of Modena is the commercial-grade stuff. It requires a minimum aging of only 2 months. Naturally, the shortened process provides a friendlier price tag. However, you may be trading taste for savings. In order to mimic the flavor and texture of Traditional balsamic vinegar, commercial-grade products often add color and flavor enhancements. Just be sure to read the ingredients prior to purchasing, and avoid any balsamic that contains added colors and flavors.

How to Make Homemade Vinaigrette
Traditionally, homemade vinaigrettes call for a 3:1 ratio. Meaning 3 parts oil to 1 part acid. So if you want to make 1 cup of salad dressing, you’d use 3/4 cup of oil and 1/4 cup of vinegar.
I prefer a more acidic experience— so I generally opt for a 2:1 ratio— your choice.
After selecting choice oil and vinegar, simply pour your desired ratio into a mason jar. Seal the cap and shake vigorously for 30 seconds. It’s seriously that easy!

Tasty Additions
Once you’ve got the basic principle down, there’s always the option to get all fancy with it. Many balsamic recipes call for an emulsifier such as mustard. Mustard will yield a creamier texture and saltier flavor. Other recipes call for a sweetener such as honey. Personally, I find balsamic sweet enough. Plus, if you’re trying to keep it keto, its best to opt-out of additional sweeteners.
Below are some ideas to inspire creativity. Play around. Experiment with your ratios and ingredients. Once you’re comfortable with the basics, try adding emulsifiers, invigorators and/or sweeteners. The variations are endless!
Oils
Oil serves as the base of any vinaigrette.
Acids
Adding acid will balance the oil and expand the flavor profile.
- Apple cider vinegar
- Balsamic vinegar
- Champagne vinegar
- Fresh lemon juice
- Fresh lime juice
- Red wine vinegar
Invigorators
Invigorators add dimension and complexity to the vinaigrette. Fresh is always best.
- Basil
- Capers
- Cayenne
- Citrus zest
- Cracked pepper
- Dill
- Ginger
- Sea salt
- Shallots
- Thyme
- Tarragon
Emulsifiers
Emulsifiers serve to bind and thicken the vinaigrette.
- Dijon mustard
- Egg yolk
- Miso paste
- Roasted garlic
Sweeteners
Sweeteners can soften or enhance the flavor.
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The EASIEST Balsamic Vinaigrette
- Total Time: 1 Min
- Yield: 1 Cup 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This healthy, homemade vinaigrette will literally take you one minute to prepare.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup cold-pressed, extra-virgin olive oil*
- 1/2 cup Balsamic vinegar of Modena
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)*
Instructions
- Pour ingredients into a mason jar.*
- Seal the jar with a cap and shake vigorously for 30 seconds.
- Store in refrigerator. Saves 2-3 weeks in an airtight container.
Notes
Traditionally, homemade vinaigrettes call for a 3:1 ratio (3 parts oil to 1 part acid). I prefer a more acidic experience, so I’ve included a 2:1 ratio. This is up to your preferences.
Alternatively, you can pour the ingredients into a bowl and whisk them together.
Option to add Dijon mustard for a creamier (and saltier) salad dressing.
- Prep Time: 1 Min
- Category: Sauces
- Method: Raw
- Cuisine: Keto
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 Tablespoon
- Calories: 135
- Sugar: 3g
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
Keywords: Keto, Dressing, Homemade, Healthy, Clean Keto, DIY, How to Make, Creamy
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Medical Disclaimer
This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice or to take the place of such advice or treatment from a personal physician. All readers/viewers of this content are advised to consult their doctors or qualified health professionals regarding specific health questions. Neither Katie Rodriguez nor the publisher of this content takes responsibility for possible health consequences of any person or persons reading or following the information in this educational content. All viewers of this content, especially those taking prescription or over-the-counter medications, should consult their physicians before beginning any nutrition, supplement or lifestyle program.
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