Download a FREE E-Book with 20 Easy Weeknight Dinners
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Pinterest
  • YouTube
  • TikTok
About
Lifestyle
Favorite Products
Contact
Mad About Food
  • All Recipes
  • High Protein
  • Slow Cooker
  • Soups, Stews and Chilis
  • Meal Prep
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • YouTube
    • TikTok
Search

Trending:

High Protein
Slow Cooker
Soups
30 Minute Meals
One Pan
Meal Prep
Home / Recipes / Sauces, Dips, and Dressings

Creamy Balsamic Vinaigrette

Jump to Recipe

By: Madeline Tague

Updated: May 2, 2026

This site may contain affiliate links. Please read my disclosure policy.

Creamy Balsamic Vinaigrette is an easy and simple balsamic dressing you can use for salads or as a marinade. I like this balsamic vinaigrette recipe SO much more than the store bought stuff and it’s healthier too!

For something to pair with this dressing, make this balsamic grilled chicken and a simple salad.

creamy balsamic vinaigrette in a mason jar with a spoon resting on top of the opening of the jar on a wooden cutting board
creamy balsamic vinaigrette in a mason jar with a spoon above the opening of the jar on a wooden cutting board

5 minutes

Extremely easy

Quick Look: Creamy Balsamic Dressing Recipe

  • ⏱️ Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • 👩‍🍳 Cook Time: no cook
  • 🕖 Total Time: 5 minutes
  • 🥗 Servings: 14 servings
  • ⚡️ Calories: 155 calories per serving (based on nutrition panel)
  • 🔥 Cooking Method: Blend in a blender
  • 🛒 Main Ingredients: balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey
  • ⭐️ Difficulty: Extremely easy! Make a batch to keep in the fridge all week.

SUMMARIZE & SAVE THIS CONTENT ON

ChatGPT
Grok
Google AI
Perplexity
Add me as a trusted Google source
Table of Contents
  • Quick Look: Creamy Balsamic Dressing Recipe
  • Why You’ll Love This Recipe
  • How should I use this balsamic vinaigrette dressing?
  • Ingredients You’ll Need
  • How to make Creamy Balsamic Vinaigrette
  • My favorite salad combos to eat with this homemade balsamic vinaigrette recipe
  • Mad’s Expert Tips for the Best Creamy Balsamic Vinaigrette 🥗
  • Can I use an immersion blender to make this creamy balsamic dressing?
  • Recipe FAQs
  • Recipe

Romi left this 5 star review ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

“I’ve shared this delicious, perfect balsamic Vinegrette with a number of friends and every single one loves it! I love it too and thank you for it!”

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Versatile dressing – This healthy balsamic dressing is so versatile. You can use it on salads or as a dip for veggies. You could also thin this dressing with a bit of broth and make a super flavorful grilled balsamic chicken marinade.
  • Easy recipe – You don’t have to chop or cook anything for this recipe! Put your ingredients in a blender, slowly add olive oil, and blend!
  • More affordable balsamic vinaigrette – Store-bought dressings are expensive! I love opting for a quick and easy at home version that is even more delicious.

How should I use this balsamic vinaigrette dressing?

This simple dressing can help you make some of your favorite recipes even better! I like to use it as a chicken marinade for balsamic grilled chicken.

You could also make a simple caprese pasta salad by tossing cooking pasta, mozzarella balls, and cherry tomatoes in this easy balsamic vinaigrette.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a quick look at the ingredients you need to make this creamy balsamic vinaigrette. For a full list of ingredients and amounts please head to the full recipe.

ingredients for creamy balsamic vinaigrette in small bowls with labels on them

You will be amazed at how easy it is to make this balsamic vinegar salad dressing with just a few basic ingredients.

  • Honey – the honey adds a perfect bit of sweetness to your dressing. you can use maple syrup instead but it will result in a thinner dressing.
  • Balsamic vinegar – using a high quality balsamic will make a huge difference in the flavor of your dressing
  • Lemon juice – the lemon juice brightens up the dressing
  • Dijon mustard – dijon adds some flavor and also helps create the perfectly creamy texture
  • Extra virgin olive oil – it is important to use good quality olive oil to ensure the best flavor of the creamy balsamic vinaigrette

I like to keep the seasonings simple so I just use salt, pepper and garlic powder. If you want to add even more flavor you can replace those with some Italian seasoning or even add in some dried herbs.

If you prefer to use fresh garlic, I recommend using just one clove so that you don’t overpower the flavor of the dressing. Mince the fresh garlic prior to placing it in the blender.

If you love this creamy balsamic vinaigrette, try this apple cider vinaigrette or green dream dressing.

How to make Creamy Balsamic Vinaigrette

the ingredients for balsamic vinaigrette in a blender

Step 1: First, add honey, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, dijon mustard, salt, pepper and garlic powder to a blender. Then, blend together on high until full combined.

oil pouring into a blender with balsamic vinaigrette in it

Step 2: Next, stream the oil into the blender while the blender is running on medium-low. Continue blending until the oil is fully incorporated. Store in the refrigerator in an airtight container.

My favorite salad combos to eat with this homemade balsamic vinaigrette recipe

Try this homemade vinaigrette with one of these easy recipes for a quick lunch or side dish!

  • Strawberry Spinach Salad – Start with baby spinach and top with fresh sliced strawberries, grilled chicken, crumbled feta and toasted almonds
  • Chopped Romaine Salad – Start with a base of finely chopped romaine lettuce and top with red onion, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, grilled steak and blue cheese
  • Classic Caprese Salad – Slice large heirloom tomatoes into rounds and layer with thick slices of mozzarella cheese and fresh basil leaves.

Mad’s Expert Tips for the Best Creamy Balsamic Vinaigrette 🥗

  • Add olive oil slowly – to make sure your dressing does not separate, you need to add your olive oil very slowly while blending the dressing
  • Use high quality ingredients – in a recipe like this vinaigrette, it’s important to use high quality olive oil and balsamic vinegar. They make a huge difference in the final product!
  • Adjust seasoning to your taste – this recipe is customizable! If you like your dressing a bit more tart, you can add extra lemon. For some extra sweetness, add a bit more honey. You can make it your own!

I also use balsamic vinegar in this baked honey balsamic chicken breast.

creamy balsamic vinaigrette in a jar on a wooden cutting board

Can I use an immersion blender to make this creamy balsamic dressing?

Yes! If you want to use an immersion blender to make this balsamic vinaigrette, just add all ingredients to the blender cup and blend.

Pull the blender up slowly as you blend until all of the oil is incorporated. You can also use a food processor and follow the same steps as you would for the blender.

If you love this balsamic dressing, you need to try this white balsamic dressing. It is very similar, but with a lighter, brighter flavor thanks to the lemon juice and white balsamic vinegar.

Recipe FAQs

How do you store creamy balsamic vinaigrette?

Store your dressing in an airtight container for up to a week in the fridge.

Do you need mayo for a creamy vinaigrette?

You do not need mayo for a creamy dressing. In this recipe, I use a dijon mustard to help make the vinaigrette creamy.

How do you avoid the dressing separating?

Add your olive oil to the dressing slowly while it blends so that the dressing doesn’t separate.

Other Healthy Homemade Salad Dressing Recipes

  • Mason Jar Salad Dressing

    Mason Jar Salad Dressing

  • Greek Yogurt Salad Dressing

    Greek Yogurt Salad Dressing

  • Whole30 Copycat Chipotle Vinaigrette

    Whole30 Copycat Chipotle Vinaigrette

  • Homemade Blue Cheese Dressing

    Homemade Blue Cheese Dressing


You can find the full recipe below. If you make this recipe, please rate and review it in the comments, or share it with me on Instagram!

Email Recipe for Later

Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form.
Loading
creamy balsamic vinaigrette in a mason jar with a spoon above the opening of the jar on a wooden cutting board

Recipe

Creamy Balsamic Vinaigrette

5 from 27 votes
Easy homemade balsamic dressing for salads or marinating.
Recipe By: Madeline Tague
Prep: 5 minutes minutes
Cook: 5 minutes minutes
Print Review Pin It SaveSaved!
Servings: 14 servings

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 cup extra virgin olive oil

Instructions

  • Add honey, vinegar, lemon juice, dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and garlic powder to a blender
  • Blend on high until a smooth even mixture remains
  • With the blender running on medium-low, pour in the EVOO in an even steady stream
  • Increase the speed of the blender as you add the oil
  • Blend until the oil is fully incorporated
  • Store in the refrigerator in an airtight container

Recipe Notes

  • You can replace the garlic powder with a pressed fresh garlic clove.
  • For additional seasoning, you can add Italian seasoning to your dressing.
  • To make sure the dressing combines fully, slowly add the olive oil to your dressing. 

Nutrition Information

Serving: 9g, Calories: 155kcal (8%), Carbohydrates: 4g (1%), Protein: 0.1g, Fat: 15g (23%), Saturated Fat: 2g (13%), Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g, Monounsaturated Fat: 11g, Sodium: 181mg (8%), Potassium: 17mg, Fiber: 0.1g, Sugar: 4g (4%), Vitamin A: 1IU, Vitamin C: 0.4mg, Calcium: 4mg, Iron: 0.2mg (1%)

This website provides approximate nutrition information for convenience and as a courtesy only. Nutrition data is gathered primarily from the USDA Food Composition Database, whenever available, or otherwise other online calculators.

Did you make my Creamy Balsamic Vinaigrette?

Review Share on Insta SaveSaved!
I appreciate your reviews SO much! Mention @mad_about_food and hashtag your photo with #madaboutfood
14499 shares
  • Facebook
  • Email
Madeline Tague Avatar

About

Madeline Tague

Hi, I’m Madeline! I am so excited to share my healthy and approachable recipes with you. Here you will find simple, comforting recipes that the whole family will enjoy. Turn on your favorite playlist or podcast and let’s get cooking!
Learn More
  • Facebook
  • Pinterest
  • YouTube
  • Instagram
  • X
5 from 27 votes (3 ratings without comment)

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe Rating




78 responses

  1. Casey
    November 14, 2021

    5 stars
    Really yummy and easy! I will be adding this to salads all week!

    Reply
    1. Madeline
      November 15, 2021

      yay! so glas!!

      Reply
    2. Shana B
      January 16, 2023

      5 stars
      This is so good and so versatile for a dressing! Love it! I must confess… I’ve had it in my fridge for probably a month… hasn’t killed me yet for keeping it this long! Haha! Will definitely make again!

      Reply
      1. Madeline
        January 16, 2023

        Haha, love to hear it! Thanks, Casey!

        Reply
  2. Randee Morris
    November 7, 2021

    5 stars
    Holy mother of balsamic dressings! All I had on hand was an aged balsamic that was already thicker. So the dressing came out THICC and I am not mad about it. Not sure how you do it but every recipe I’ve tried of yours is ON POINT. Thank you!

    Reply
  3. Silvia
    September 30, 2021

    How long does this last in the fridge after making it?

    Reply
    1. Madeline
      October 5, 2021

      I would give it up to 4-5 days in an airtight container, just be sure to give it a good shake before use again!

      Reply
  4. Lisa
    September 9, 2021

    Love this recipe but it’sa little thick for my taste. How could I make it a little thinner?

    Reply
    1. Madeline
      September 12, 2021

      Hi Lisa! You can add a bit of warm water and blend. Keep adding it until its the desired consistency.

      Reply
  5. Gina Lockwood
    August 8, 2021

    5 stars
    You can’t go wrong with any of Madeline’s recipes! Always easy to make and absolutely delicious. I made this dressing and it was a hit with all the guests including my 4 year old granddaughter.

    Reply
  6. Lizzie
    July 29, 2021

    5 stars
    Made this using my immersion blender and it was delicious (and fun!)

    Reply
    1. Madeline
      August 6, 2021

      amazing!! thank you!!

      Reply
  7. Kayla
    July 19, 2021

    5 stars
    This is a delicious dressing that is very versatile.

    Reply
  8. Danielle
    June 29, 2021

    5 stars
    Love this dressing as with all of your salad dressings! Its so easy to make and has a nice tangy to it!

    Reply
    1. Madeline
      July 1, 2021

      wonderful! Thank you!

      Reply
  9. Amy
    June 18, 2021

    5 stars
    Balsamic vinaigrette is my favorite dressing, but this is amazing!! I’ve made this numerous times & can’t get enough of it!

    Reply
    1. Madeline
      June 23, 2021

      wonderful!! thank you so much!!

      Reply
  10. Carolyn
    June 1, 2021

    5 stars
    Just made this easy dressing & it is delicious!! Can’t wait to have it on hand to use it on salads each week!

    Reply
    1. Madeline
      June 8, 2021

      yay! so glad!

      Reply
  11. Leah
    January 8, 2021

    Round 3? 4? 5? So glad I asked for this recipe!! Thanks again Madeline.

    Reply
    1. Madeline
      January 8, 2021

      amazing!!!

      Reply
  12. Leah
    November 6, 2020

    So good the first 5 times I had to make it again for a bday dinner for my hubby and BIL. Will be a nice accompaniment to my homemade spaghetti. Thanks again Maddie @mad_about_food❤️

    Reply
    1. Madeline
      November 8, 2020

      Amazing!! Thank you!!

      Reply
  13. Catherine Joy
    July 28, 2020

    5 stars
    Loved it, thank you!

    Reply
    1. Madeline
      July 28, 2020

      So glad!! Thank you for sharing!

      Reply
  14. Misty
    April 27, 2020

    What makes this so high in fat?

    Reply
    1. Madeline
      April 27, 2020

      The extra virgin olive oil. Feel free to use a lower fat oil if you prefer

      Reply
  15. Christene
    April 11, 2020

    5 stars
    Perfect, so yummy. Thankyou!!

    Reply
    1. Madeline
      April 13, 2020

      You’re welcome!

      Reply
1 2 3
Newer→

Welcome

Hi, I’m Madeline – food blogger and recipe developer based just outside Philadelphia. Join me for simple, comforting recipes designed for the whole family. Turn on your favorite playlist or podcast, and let’s get to cooking!

Read more

High Protein favorites

  • High Protein Overnight Oats

    High Protein Overnight Oats

  • High Protein Lazy Lasagna

    High Protein Lazy Lasagna

  • 4 High Protein Ninja Creami Recipes

    4 High Protein Ninja Creami Recipes

  • Cottage Cheese Egg Bake

    Cottage Cheese Egg Bake

  • Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad

    Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad

  • High Protein Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese

    High Protein Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese

All High Protein Recipes

Popular Posts

  • Oven Baked Chuck Roast Recipe

    Oven Baked Chuck Roast Recipe

  • Butternut Squash Pasta Sauce

    Butternut Squash Pasta Sauce

  • Potato Cheddar Chive Bakes (Starbucks Copycat)

    Potato Cheddar Chive Bakes (Starbucks Copycat)

  • Oven Baked Starbucks Egg Bites

    Oven Baked Starbucks Egg Bites

  • High Protein Sausage Pancake Muffins

    High Protein Sausage Pancake Muffins

  • Greek Yogurt Waffles

    Greek Yogurt Waffles

image of 6 recipes

Grab a free

E-Book With 6 Of My Top Rated Recipes

Sign me up!

Join Me And over 500k Friends On Instagram

@mad_about_food

“This is my third time making this recipe and it’s a fave for meal prepping! So delicious, quick and easy ☺️” – Jessica

Get recipe

“This was so simple and delicious!! Worked late and still quickly put together a great meal.” – Dana

Get recipe

“So good! Not only was this incredibly easy to make, the flavor was perfect. I will definitely make this again and again!” – Mandy

Get recipe
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Pinterest
  • YouTube
  • TikTok

Courses

Dinners
Breakfasts
Lunch
Dips & Sauces

Popular

One Pan Meal
30 Minute Meals
Meal Prep
Chicken Recipes
Back to Top
About
Contact
Privacy Policy

©

Mad About Food

|

Branding by MRD

|

Theme by OC

14499 shares

Rate This Recipe

Your vote:




A rating is required
A name is required
An email is required

Recipe Ratings without Comment

Something went wrong. Please try again.