How to Make a Refreshing White Wine Vinaigrette Salad

The white wine vinaigrette salad – light, tangy, and incredibly versatile. This salad is a classic for a reason, offering a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. It’s the perfect side dish for a summer barbecue, a light lunch, or even a sophisticated dinner party appetizer. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make!

I remember the first time I tried this salad. I was at a friend’s dinner party in the countryside, and the aroma of fresh herbs and citrus filled the air. One bite, and I was hooked. The tangy vinaigrette perfectly complemented the crisp vegetables, creating a flavor explosion in my mouth.

Today, I’m going to share my tried-and-true recipe for a white wine vinaigrette salad that’s guaranteed to impress.

Gather Your Ingredients:

For the vinaigrette:

• 1/4 cup white wine vinegar (I prefer Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 small shallot, finely minced
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil

For the salad:

• 6 cups mixed greens (such as romaine, arugula, spinach)
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)

Equipment You’ll Need:

• Mason jar or a small bowl for whisking
• Salad bowl

Let’s Make a Salad:

Step 1: Create the Vinaigrette

1. In your mason jar or bowl, whisk together the white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced shallot, salt, and pepper.
2. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking constantly. This helps emulsify the vinaigrette, creating a creamy and cohesive dressing.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
2. Drizzle the desired amount of vinaigrette over the salad. Remember, a little goes a long way!
3. Toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.

Step 3: Add the Finishing Touch (Optional)

• For an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the salad just before serving.

Tips for Salad Success:

• Taste as you go: The beauty of homemade vinaigrette is the ability to adjust the flavors to your liking. Feel free to add more salt, pepper, or even a pinch of sugar if desired.
• Don’t overdress: Start with a small amount of vinaigrette and add more as needed. Overdressing can make the salad soggy.
• Get creative: This recipe is a wonderful base for endless variations. Try adding different vegetables, fruits, nuts, or cheeses to create your own signature salad.

White Wine Vinaigrette Salad

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different type of vinegar?

Absolutely! While white wine vinegar provides a classic tang, you can experiment with other vinegars like red wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar, or even champagne vinegar. Each vinegar will bring its unique flavor profile to the salad.

How long does the vinaigrette last?

Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, the vinaigrette will keep well for up to a week.

Making White Wine Vinaigrette

Time to Enjoy!

There you have it – a simple yet delicious white wine vinaigrette salad recipe. It’s a true testament to the fact that the simplest recipes are often the most satisfying. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and experience the joy of creating a restaurant-quality salad in your own kitchen.

Don’t forget to share your culinary creations with us! Leave a comment below and tell us about your favorite salad combinations or any variations you’ve tried. And for more delicious and easy salad recipes, be sure to check out our other posts on Family Cuisine. Happy cooking!