This easy basil vinaigrette is bursting with fresh herb flavor and comes together in just minutes. Keep a jar in the fridge for salads, vegetables, sandwiches, and more.

Plate of salad topped with basil vinaigrette.

This basil vinaigrette is one of those recipes I look forward to making every summer. It’s packed with fresh basil, comes together in minutes, and is an easy way to add bright, herby flavor to everything from salads and vegetables to grilled chicken, fish, and fresh mozzarella or burrata.

Still have basil to use? Pesto sauce is delicious on everything from pasta and pizza to sandwiches and salads. Or, if you’ve got parsley overflowing too, try the dressing from the Big Italian Salad—it calls for generous amounts of both basil and parsley.

“This was so ridiculously good that I just made two more batches. Jenn, you are my culinary idol!”

What You’ll Need To Make Basil Vinaigrette

Vinaigrette ingredients, including basil, honey, and olive oil.

To make basil vinaigrette, you’ll need fresh basil, garlic, white wine vinegar, extra-virgin olive oil, salt, pepper, and honey. For best results, make sure to use good quality vinegar and olive oil.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Add ingredients to the food processor. Combine all of the ingredients in a food processor fitted with the steel blade.

Basil vinaigrette components in food processor.

Step 2: Blend. Process the ingredients until smooth and bright green. Transfer to a jar and store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Be sure to shake it well to re-emulsify before using. Enjoy!

Puréed basil vinaigrette in food processor.

Pro Tips

  • Use it fresh for the best flavor. Basil can lose its brightness in the freezer, so aim to use the vinaigrette within 5 days and store it in the fridge.
  • Be mindful when marinating. This vinaigrette works well as a marinade, but stick to dark meat or bone-in chicken—acidic marinades can toughen lean cuts like chicken breasts.
  • A blender works too. No food processor? Just toss everything in a blender and blend until smooth and vibrant green.
  • Use it beyond salads. This basil vinaigrette is just as good tossed with roasted vegetables or baby potatoes as it is drizzled over a summery pasta salad. It’s even great on grilled corn—any fresh, seasonal produce will soak up the flavor beautifully.

Plate of salad topped with basil vinaigrette.