Balsamic Herb Dressing
LivFarms’ Balsamic Herb Dressing is a sophisticated blend that strikes a perfect balance between the rich, sweet acidity of balsamic vinegar and the smooth, fruity profile of olive oil. This dressing is elevated by the inclusion of Dijon mustard, which adds a tangy depth and a touch of honey, which introduces a subtle sweetness to temper the vinegar's sharpness. The dried basil and thyme combination in this dressing create a complex flavor profile that is both earthy and refined. This versatile dressing pairs exceptionally well with the bold, slightly bitter leaves of LivFarms’ Red Leaf lettuce, whose vibrant color and texture provide a beautiful contrast to the dressing's deep flavors. To complement this dressing, consider adding roasted vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for sweetness, crumbled goat cheese or shaved Parmesan for a creamy, salty element, and croutons for crunch. This dressing is capable of transforming a simple salad into an elegant and flavorful dish; which is ideal for a special occasion or an everyday gourmet meal.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 teaspoon basil, dried
- 1 teaspoon thyme, dried
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, dijon mustard, honey, dried basil, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Continue whisking until the ingredients are well combined and the dressing has a smooth consistency.
- Taste the dressing and adjust the salt, pepper, or honey to balance the flavors according to your preference.
- Transfer the dressing to a jar or dressing bottle.
- Store in the refrigerator for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld.
- Shake well before serving.
Notes
The herb highlighted in the Balsamic Herb Dressing recipe is thyme. Thyme offers a distinctive flavor profile characterized by earthy, lemony, and slightly minty notes. Its aromatic and savory undertones make it a versatile herb, adding depth to various dishes. In the context of this dressing, dried thyme complements the richness of balsamic vinegar and olive oil, providing an herbaceous essence to the dressing.
Nutritionally, thyme is a good source of vitamins C and A, essential for immune function and vision. It also contains small amounts of iron, manganese, and fiber. Thyme is rich in antioxidants, which may contribute to its potential anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
In terms of health benefits, thyme has been linked to respiratory health due to its compounds, such as thymol, which possess antimicrobial properties. Thymol has been used in traditional medicine for its potential to relieve coughs and respiratory congestion. Additionally, the antioxidants in thyme contribute to overall health by neutralizing free radicals in the body. Incorporating thyme into salads not only enhances flavor but also brings potential health benefits to the table.
