Desirée's Balsamic Vinaigrette

There are so many things to report today!! 

Happy Birthday to my little brother!

Congrats to my big brother on the new job!

And, I've got a recipe for the only salad dressing recipe you will ever need! 

Paul, my "little" brother, turns 24 today. I haven't known him my whole life, but I do consider him a full-on brother. You know, one that you can tease and give life lessons to at the same time. I am so happy to have him in my life and hope that I live up to "the-big-sister-he-never-had" title.

My older brother got a promotion! So proud of him and all his hard work, although it does mean that he is moving away, but I know this will be a great position for him. I will miss having you close by bro!

There is a lot of family love going on around our house today. It is only appropriate that I keep that going with the recipe. This salad dressing recipe goes back to the first time I met the Hubby's parents, which was actually before we were officially dating. I went to their house for dinner and instantly fell in love with his Mom. First of all, she had an amazing meal planned and she was preparing everything while talking to me at the same time. I could tell this woman knew her way around the kitchen, and very well!

I can't remember exactly what she served, but I know it involved surf and turf and a side salad. Side salads are often served with dinner in her kitchen, which I love, and she usually has a few dressing options. One of which is her Balsamic Dressing, made from scratch! That was the moment when everything changed for me - this salad dressing.

I have made this dressing numerous times since this recipe was handed to me. When I make dinner for friends or new moms, I always include a jar. It is the perfect combination of tangy and sweet, it keeps in the fridge very well, and is SUPER easy to make. This recipe is definitely worthy of the expensive oil and vinegar!

And now, drum roll please, the life-changing salad dressing brought to you by Desirée herself....

Desirée's Balsamic Vinaigrette 

Yields: 1 2/3 cups dressing
Prep Time: 10-15 minutes

1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 small shallots, minced
1/4 teaspoon salt 
1/4 teaspoon pepper
3 tablespoons honey
3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
3/4 to 1 cup olive oil

Whisk the first seven ingredients together until blended, then gradually pour in the olive oil while whisking to emulsify. I prefer to do this by hand, but this can easily be made in a blender or food processor - blend first 7 ingredients until combined and while the blade is running, add in the oil. 

This dressing will keep in the refrigerator well, but becomes slightly firm, so bring to room temperature before serving. I usually can't wait that long, so just spoon it on my salad and mix around. Or you can heat in the microwave for a few seconds.