SUN-DRIED TOMATO VINAIGRETTE
Sun-dried tomato vinaigrette is a bold, flavour-packed dressing with a perfect balance of tangy, sweet and savoury notes. The deep, rich taste of sun-dried tomatoes pairs beautifully with the acidity of balsamic vinegar, the smoothness of olive oil and the slight sweetness of honey. This vinaigrette is incredibly versatile—it works well as a salad dressing, a drizzle over grilled vegetables or even a marinade for meats and tofu. Its Mediterranean-inspired flavours make it an excellent addition to pasta salads, roasted dishes and grain bowls. The natural umami of sun-dried tomatoes enhances the complexity of the vinaigrette, adding depth without overpowering other ingredients. With just a handful of ingredients and no cooking required, this vinaigrette comes together in minutes, making it a quick yet gourmet way to enhance your meals.
RECIPE CATEGORY
Salad Dressing
SERVING SIZE
1 serving
CUISINE
Mediterranean
PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES
No-Cook
OCCASION/HOLIDAY
Spring, Summer, Picnic, Family Reunion, Potluck, Mediterranean-Inspired Dinners
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS
Healthy, Low Fat, Quick & Easy, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
DISH TYPE
Salad Dressing
INGREDIENTS
The following are the ingredients we need to prepare this sun-dried tomato vinaigrette.
- 1 tbsp sun-dried tomatoes, blended
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp balsamic vinegar
- ½ tsp honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
- Calories: 90
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat:2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 80mg
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber:5g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 5g
PREPARATION
- Prepare The Sun-Dried Tomatoes: If using dry-packed sun-dried tomatoes, soak them in warm water for 5 minutes to soften. If using oil-packed tomatoes, drain excess oil before blending.
- Blend The Base Ingredients: In a small bowl, mix the blended sun-dried tomatoes with balsamic vinegar, ensuring even distribution.
- Incorporate Olive Oil: Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously to create a smooth, emulsified consistency.
- Add The Honey And Seasonings: Stir in the honey, then season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Mix thoroughly to balance the flavours.
- Adjust Consistency If Needed: If the vinaigrette is too thick, add a few drops of water or extra balsamic vinegar to reach the desired texture.
- Let It Rest: Allow the vinaigrette to sit for at least 5 minutes before serving to let the flavours blend.
- Serve And Enjoy: Drizzle over salads, grain bowls and roasted vegetables or use them as a marinade for meats and tofu.
PREP TIME
5 minutes
COOKING TIME
No cooking required
TIPS
Here are some helpful tips for you when making this sun-dried tomato vinaigrette.
- Use High-Quality Balsamic Vinegar: Aged balsamic will provide a smoother, more balanced acidity.
- Whisk Thoroughly: Blending the ingredients well ensures a cohesive texture and even distribution of flavours.
- Adjust Sweetness: If the dressing is too tangy, add an extra ¼ tsp of honey.
- Balance Acidity: If the vinaigrette is too sharp, add a little more olive oil to mellow it out.
- Enhance The Flavour: A pinch of dried oregano or basil can add an extra Mediterranean touch.
- Let It Sit Before Serving: Allowing the dressing to rest helps intensify the sun-dried tomato flavour.
VARIATIONS
- Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Vinaigrette: Blend in 1 tbsp Greek yoghurt or sour cream for a thicker, richer consistency.
- Spicy Sun-Dried Tomato Dressing: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for a mild heat. Adjust the spice level to taste.
- Garlic-Infused Vinaigrette: Stir in ¼ tsp minced garlic for a stronger, savoury flavour. Let it sit for 10 minutes to infuse properly.
- Herb-Infused Dressing: Mix in finely chopped fresh basil or parsley for an extra burst of freshness.
- Vegan Alternative: Swap honey for maple syrup or agave nectar for a plant-based version.
PREPPING AND STORAGE
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Stir well before using, as ingredients may separate.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture may change when thawed.
- Serving Tip: If the vinaigrette thickens in the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes and stir well before serving.