It’s a homemade salad dressing made from pantry staples like balsamic vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, garlic, and a sweetener like honey or brown sugar. Bobby Flay’s take uses the right ratio of acid to oil to create a bold, silky vinaigrette that coats greens beautifully and enhances everything from roasted vegetables to grilled meats.
Balsamic vinegar – ¼ cup
Extra virgin olive oil – ¾ cup
Dijon mustard – 1 teaspoon
Garlic (minced or grated) – 1 clove
Honey or brown sugar – 1 tablespoon
Salt – ½ teaspoon (or to taste)
Freshly ground black pepper – ¼ teaspoon
Optional:
Shallot (minced) – 1 tablespoon
Lemon juice – 1 teaspoon (for added brightness)
Combine base ingredients – In a medium bowl or jar, add balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, and honey.
Slowly whisk in olive oil – Pour the olive oil in a thin stream while whisking vigorously to emulsify.
Season and adjust – Add salt, pepper, and optional lemon juice or shallots. Whisk again until smooth.
Store or use immediately – Pour into a bottle or jar and shake before serving.