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Classic French Vinaigrette

The Classic French Vinaigrette is an elegant, timeless dressing that brings a harmonious blend of sharpness, tang, and subtle herbal notes to any salad. The acidity of the red wine vinegar is perfectly balanced with the rich, fruity depth of the olive oil, creating a smooth yet invigorating base. Dijon mustard adds a creamy texture and a mild spicy kick, enhancing the vinaigrette's complexity. Minced garlic offers a warm, aromatic pungency that deepens the flavor profile, while fresh parsley provides a burst of freshness, adding a delicate, slightly peppery layer. This vinaigrette's refined and balanced taste pairs wonderfully with LivFarms’ Romaine lettuce.
To complement this classic vinaigrette, consider incorporating ingredients that can stand up to its bold flavors. Thinly sliced red onions add a sharpness that echoes the vinaigrette's tanginess, while cherry tomatoes offer a juicy sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the dressing's acidity. Crumbled goat cheese or shaved Parmesan can introduce a creamy, salty element that melds seamlessly with the vinaigrette's richness. For a crunch, consider adding toasted croutons. Together, these components create a salad that is not only visually appealing but also a delight to the palate, showcasing the timeless appeal of the Classic French Vinaigrette.

Ingredients
  

  • 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
  • 1/3 cup olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dijon mustard
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • In a bowl, combine ¼ cup red wine vinegar and ⅓ cup olive oil.
  • Add 1 teaspoon dijon mustard and 1 minced clove of garlic to the mixture.
  • Incorporate 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley.
  • Season the vinaigrette with salt and pepper according to your taste
  • Whisk the ingredients together until the vinaigrette is emulsified.
  • Refrigerate the dressing for at least 1 hour before serving for optimal flavor.

Notes

Parsley, with its bright, slightly peppery flavor, offers a fresh and somewhat earthy taste to dishes. It's a versatile herb that complements a wide range of flavors without overpowering them. In the context of a salad dressing or when used with LivFarms lettuce, parsley can add a fresh dimension to the overall taste. Its vibrant green color and clean taste make it an excellent addition to a light vinaigrette, enhancing the dressing without dominating it. You can finely chop parsley and mix it into a vinaigrette, or use it as a garnish on top of the salad. It pairs exceptionally well with the crispness of LivFarms’ Romaine and Green Leaf lettuce, adding not just flavor but also a visually appealing contrast.
Parsley is highly nutritious and low in calories. It’s a great source of vitamins A, C, and K, and provides folate and iron. Vitamin A is important for eye health and the immune system, Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant and helps in collagen production, while Vitamin K is crucial for bone health and blood clotting. The presence of folate makes it beneficial for heart health, and iron is essential for transporting oxygen in the blood.
Consuming parsley offers several health benefits. Its high antioxidant content means it can help reduce oxidative stress and combat free radicals in the body, thus potentially lowering the risk of chronic diseases. The flavonoids in parsley, especially luteolin, have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally, parsley can aid in kidney health due to its diuretic properties, helping in flushing out toxins from the body. Its high vitamin C content also supports the immune system, making it a great addition to a daily diet for overall health maintenance.