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Strawberries aren’t just for desserts! This summer, elevate your salads with a delightful homemade strawberry vinaigrette dressing. Combining the sweetness of ripe strawberries with the tanginess of vinegar, this dressing adds a burst of fresh flavor to any dish. Making your own strawberry vinaigrette is simple and allows you to customize the flavors to your liking. Here’s how you can make this refreshing dressing at home.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1/4 cup olive oil (extra virgin for a richer taste)
• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (optional for added sweetness)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional for extra tang)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Strawberries:
   • Start by washing and hulling the strawberries. Chop them into smaller pieces to make blending easier.
2. Blend the Ingredients:
   • In a blender or food processor, combine the chopped strawberries, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey or maple syrup (if using), Dijon mustard, and lemon juice (if using). Blend until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
3. Season to Taste:
   • Taste the vinaigrette and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Blend again to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed. Adjust the sweetness or acidity by adding more honey or lemon juice as desired.
4. Strain the Dressing (Optional):
   • If you prefer a smoother dressing, you can strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve to remove the strawberry seeds and pulp. This step is optional but can result in a more refined texture.
5. Store the Dressing:
   • Transfer the strawberry vinaigrette to a jar or airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to one week. Shake well before using as the ingredients may separate over time.
6. Serve:
   • Drizzle the strawberry vinaigrette over your favorite salads. It pairs especially well with mixed greens, spinach, arugula, goat cheese, nuts, and other fresh fruits. Enjoy the burst of summer flavors in every bite!

Tips:

• Use ripe, sweet strawberries for the best flavor. If strawberries are out of season, you can use frozen strawberries that have been thawed.
• Adjust the ratio of vinegar to oil based on your taste preference. For a less tangy dressing, use more olive oil.
• For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a small clove of minced garlic or a teaspoon of poppy seeds.
• This vinaigrette can also be used as a marinade for chicken or as a sauce for roasted vegetables.

Strawberry vinaigrette dressing is a simple and delicious way to brighten up your salads and meals. With its perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors, this homemade dressing is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Give it a try and enjoy the taste of summer in every bite!