Ditch the store bought dressing and whip up this robust basil vinaigrette instead. 
Fresh basil leaves are a staple ingredient in our home. In fact, it is the one plant that actually makes me feel like my thumb is green. It grows in abundance in my backyard and planters without much effort on my part.
Mixing up a vinaigrette is an easy way to use the fresh leaves and enjoy the bursting taste of basil. 
It’s aromatic and refreshing and by adding a generous portion of red pepper flakes, it gives any dish a big kick.
It’s versatility makes it a delicious addition to salads, grilled meats and vegetables, pastas, and even breads.
When drizzled on a dish, like my Charred Romaine and Steak Salad, it livens it up and makes this salad robust in flavor. 
Go ahead and use up those basil leaves you have growing and give your next dish a big bite too.
For another easy and zesty dressing, check out my Lemon Garlic Vinaigrette.
How do you use your basil from your garden?
5 minute Basil Vinaigrette with a Kick
Ditch the store bought dressing and whip up this robust basil vinaigrette instead.
- 1 garlic clove
- 1 cup packed basil leaves (coarsely chopped)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 1/2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1/4 -1/2 tsp crushed red pepper (depending on the heat you like)
- pinch of salt and pepper
- Using an immersion blender or a food processor, pulse the garlic until chopped.
- Add the basil and pulse until finely chopped.
- Add the oil, vinegar and crushed red pepper and process until smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Cover and store for up to a week.
I love vinaigrette so I’ll definitely have to make this and try.
Wow! This looks so simple but adds such a fancy twist on simple foods. Will definitely try it out
What an amazing mix of herbs, definitely something I wouldn’t have thought of but it does look good though.
What a coincidence, I have a ton of basil that needs using up!!! And I’m all about the kick so bring it!!
Yes! Enjoy!
Now I want to start growing basil! This sounds amazing!
I love a good vinaigrette! This looks so tasty and healthy- I’ll have to make it soon!
Oh yum! I bet this would be good to dip bread in, too!
We love to make fresh vinaigrettes especially when the herb garden is going strong. Using basil is simple and brings a fresh taste to anything you use it on.
The fresh taste of herbs can’t be beat.
Ooh! This sounds amazing. I’m a huge red pepper flake fan! I’m pinning to try it out later 🙂
Me too! Love anything kicked up a bit and this works great with the basil.
This looks amazing! I love basil and I’m always looking for new ways to try it!!
Hope you try it and love it like we do!
This sounds so interesting – I’ve never put basil and a spice together like this. I’m going to have to try this.
Yay! Hope you enjoy it! It is so good drizzled on grilled meat!