Everyday Balsamic Vinaigrette

Combine all ingredients in a jar or container with a tightly-filling lid. Shake vigorously, and let sit in the refrigerator for 15 minutes before using to allow flavors to blend. Shake again before using.

The brown sugar is the key to the dressing, as it offsets the strong flavor of the vinegar. Don’t use fancy gourmet balsamic for this dressing—go for the cheap stuff in the grocery store. Fancy gourmet balsamic vinegars are aged far longer, and have a much sweeter, mellower flavor than their grocery store cousins. For a simple dressing, the brown sugar takes off the edge, and adds depth of flavor. If the balsamic flavor is still too strong, add an extra 1/4 cup olive oil, and extra 1/2 teaspoon brown sugar and re-mix.