We’ve always loved how a simple salad dressing can transform a basic bowl of greens into something extraordinary, and our Gorgonzola Vinaigrette is no exception. This creamy twist on a classic vinaigrette infuses the bold, tangy notes of Italian Gorgonzola cheese into a light oil-and-vinegar base, creating a dressing that’s both elegant and easy to whip up at home.
Perfect for elevating everyday meals, it’s the secret weapon we turn to for adding depth and flavor without overwhelming the palate. Whether you’re hosting a dinner or just prepping lunch, our recipe promises a fresh take that’ll have you coming back for more.
Ingredients
In our Gorgonzola Vinaigrette Salad Dressing recipe, we select high-quality ingredients that blend seamlessly to create a bold, creamy dressing with tangy notes from the star ingredient—Gorgonzola cheese. Below, we list them in the order of preparation, including specific measurements and any prep notes for accuracy and ease.
- Gorgonzola cheese: 4 ounces, crumbled into small pieces to ensure even distribution and quick melting during mixing.
- Extra-virgin olive oil: 1/2 cup, used as the base for a smooth, silky texture that balances the cheese’s richness.
- Balsamic vinegar: 1/4 cup, added next for its sharp acidity that enhances the dressing’s depth without overpowering the flavors.
- Dijon mustard: 1 tablespoon, whisked in to act as an emulsifier and add a subtle, peppery kick.
- Minced garlic: 1 clove, finely chopped to infuse a fresh, aromatic element right before combining liquids.
- Honey: 1 teaspoon, incorporated for a touch of natural sweetness that rounds out the tartness.
- Salt and black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper, adjusted to taste at the end for optimal seasoning.
Tools and Equipment
With our high-quality ingredients for the Gorgonzola Vinaigrette in hand, we ensure a seamless preparation process by using the right tools, which help achieve that creamy, emulsified texture without any hassle.
Required Tools
To craft our Gorgonzola Vinaigrette Salad Dressing, we rely on a few essential tools that make the process efficient and precise. Below is a detailed list of the required items, organized by category for clarity:
- Measuring Tools:
- Measuring cups and spoons: Use these to accurately measure ingredients like 1/2 cup of extra-virgin olive oil and 1/4 cup of balsamic vinegar, ensuring the perfect balance of flavors.
- Mixing and Emulsifying Tools:
- Whisk or immersion blender: A whisk is ideal for manually blending the dressing to create a smooth, creamy consistency with the crumbled Gorgonzola cheese, while an immersion blender offers a quicker option for a professional-grade emulsion.
- Prep Tools:
- Knife and cutting board: Essential for mincing 1 clove of garlic, allowing us to release its fresh, pungent aroma that elevates the dressing’s taste.
- Storage Tools:
- Glass jar or airtight container: We recommend a 8-ounce jar for shaking and storing the finished vinaigrette, keeping it fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
This setup not only streamlines our recipe but also enhances safety and precision, making it easier to whip up this bold, flavorful dressing anytime.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our high-quality ingredients and essential tools, we guide you through crafting our bold Gorgonzola Vinaigrette with precise, easy steps to achieve a creamy, tangy dressing that enhances any salad.
Prepare Ingredients
Before mixing, we ensure all components are prepped for optimal flavor and texture. Start by measuring out each ingredient accurately using our measuring cups and spoons for precision.
- Crumble the Gorgonzola: Take 4 ounces of Gorgonzola cheese and crumble it finely by hand or with a fork. This step releases its rich, pungent aroma, setting the stage for a bold base.
- Mince the garlic: Use a sharp knife and cutting board to mince 1 clove of garlic. Aim for a fine chop to infuse a fresh, zesty kick without overpowering the dressing.
- Measure liquids and seasonings: In separate bowls or directly into measuring tools, portion out 1/2 cup of extra-virgin olive oil for its smooth, silky feel; 1/4 cup of balsamic vinegar for a sharp acidity; 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard to act as an emulsifier; and 1 teaspoon of honey to balance sweetness. Finally, have salt and black pepper ready to taste, adjusting for your preferred level of seasoning.
This preparation takes just a few minutes and ensures our dressing emulsifies perfectly, creating a velvety consistency that coats greens beautifully.
Mix the Dressing
With ingredients prepped, we combine them step by step to form a harmonious, emulsified blend. Use a whisk or immersion blender for this process to achieve a creamy texture effortlessly.
- In a medium bowl, add the crumbled Gorgonzola (4 ounces) along with the minced garlic. This base introduces the bold, earthy notes of the cheese right from the start.
- Whisk in the Dijon mustard (1 tablespoon) and honey (1 teaspoon) until well incorporated. The mustard helps bind the oil and vinegar, preventing separation and creating a smooth emulsion.
- Slowly pour in the balsamic vinegar (1/4 cup) while whisking continuously. This adds a tangy brightness that awakens the senses.
- Gradually drizzle in the extra-virgin olive oil (1/2 cup) in a steady stream, whisking vigorously to form a thick, creamy dressing. You’ll notice the mixture transforming into a luxurious, glossy finish.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste, then give it one final whisk. Taste as you go to ensure the flavors are balanced—expect a pungent creaminess from the Gorgonzola paired with the oil’s subtle fruitiness.
Once mixed, transfer the dressing to a glass jar for storage. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, allowing the flavors to meld even more.
Make-Ahead Instructions
One of the beauties of our Gorgonzola Vinaigrette is how well it lends itself to preparation in advance, allowing flavors to deepen and meld for an even more robust taste. This makes it ideal for meal prep or entertaining, as we can whip up a batch ahead of time without sacrificing quality.
Preparing and Storing the Dressing
To make our Gorgonzola Vinaigrette ahead, follow these simple steps after completing the initial recipe:
- Prepare the full batch: Once we’ve whisked the dressing to a creamy consistency, transfer it immediately to a clean, airtight glass jar or container. This ensures the bold, tangy notes of the Gorgonzola cheese and balsamic vinegar stay fresh.
- Cool and refrigerate: Let the dressing cool to room temperature for about 10 minutes before sealing the container. Store it in the refrigerator to preserve its creamy texture and prevent bacterial growth.
- Label for easy tracking: Always mark the container with the preparation date to monitor freshness. For instance, if made on a Monday, note it clearly.
Storage Tips and Shelf Life
Our Gorgonzola Vinaigrette benefits from resting, as the garlic and honey infuse the mixture, enhancing its vibrant flavor profile. Here’s a quick overview of storage details in the table below:
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator (sealed) | Up to 5 days | Shake well before using to re-emulsify; keep away from the door to avoid temperature fluctuations. |
| Freezer (in portions) | Up to 1 month | Freeze in ice cube trays for easy thawing; avoid repeated freezing and thawing to maintain texture. |
Revival and Usage Tips
When we’re ready to use our make-ahead Gorgonzola Vinaigrette, simply remove it from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes. Give it a vigorous shake or quick whisk to restore its smooth, emulsified state—the oil may separate slightly, but that’s normal. This step ensures the dressing coats salads perfectly, delivering that irresistible creamy tang without any extra effort. For best results, use within the recommended shelf life to enjoy peak flavor and safety.
Conclusion
We’ve crafted this Gorgonzola Vinaigrette as a go-to favorite that elevates everyday meals with its creamy zest. It’s more than a recipe—it’s our nod to bold flavors that spark creativity in the kitchen. Let’s keep experimenting and enjoying the simple joys it brings to our tables.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Gorgonzola Vinaigrette?
Gorgonzola Vinaigrette is a creamy, flavorful salad dressing that combines Italian Gorgonzola cheese with a simple oil-and-vinegar base. It’s elegant yet easy to make, adding a bold, tangy twist to meals like salads, veggies, or proteins, making it perfect for casual or fancy occasions.
What ingredients are needed for Gorgonzola Vinaigrette?
You’ll need 4 ounces of crumbled Gorgonzola cheese, 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil, 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 1 minced garlic clove, 1 teaspoon honey, and salt and black pepper to taste. Using high-quality ingredients ensures a creamy, well-balanced flavor that enhances any dish.
What tools are required to make Gorgonzola Vinaigrette?
Essential tools include measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, a whisk or immersion blender for mixing, a knife and cutting board for garlic, and a glass jar for storage. These help achieve a smooth, emulsified texture safely and efficiently.
How do I make Gorgonzola Vinaigrette?
Start by crumbling the cheese and mincing garlic. In a bowl, mix cheese, garlic, mustard, and honey, then add vinegar and oil while whisking until creamy. Season with salt and pepper, then store in a jar. The whole process takes about 10 minutes for a fresh, bold dressing.
How should I store Gorgonzola Vinaigrette?
Store in an airtight glass jar in the refrigerator for up to five days. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to one month. Before using, let it reach room temperature and shake or whisk to restore the creamy texture, keeping flavors fresh and melded.
Can I make Gorgonzola Vinaigrette in advance?
Yes, making it ahead allows flavors to deepen. Prepare as directed, cool to room temperature, then store in the fridge. It keeps for up to five days or freezes for a month. Just shake before use to maintain its creamy consistency and enhance taste over time.