Blackberry Basil Vinaigrette is an easy homemade blackberry salad dressing made with fresh blackberries, basil, balsamic vinegar, and olive oil. This vegan vinaigrette is perfect for spinach salads, mixed greens, grain bowls, fruit salads, and summer entertaining. The combination of sweet berries, fresh herbs, and tangy balsamic creates a balanced dressing that works especially well with leafy greens, nuts, and fresh fruit.
Total recipe cost: approximately $2.94
Cost per serving: approximately $0.37
I like this dressing because it uses simple ingredients and comes together in minutes. Straining the blackberries creates a smooth, seedless vinaigrette with a clean texture that coats salads beautifully.
Why You’ll Find This Delicious
The sweetness of the blackberries balances the acidity of the balsamic vinegar while the basil adds freshness and complexity. The olive oil rounds everything out into a rich, flavorful dressing that tastes fresh and homemade.
Basil
Basil is an aromatic herb that contains beneficial plant compounds and pairs particularly well with fruits, tomatoes, and balsamic vinegar.
Ingredients
Blackberries: Fresh blackberries provide sweetness, color, and fruit flavor.
Fresh Basil: Adds a bright herbal note that complements the berries.
Olive Oil: Creates a smooth, rich vinaigrette.
Balsamic Vinegar: Adds acidity and depth.
Sugar: Balances the tartness of the berries and vinegar.
Red Onion: Contributes a mild savory flavor.
Garlic: Adds depth and complexity.
Salt: Enhances the flavors.
Black Pepper: Adds subtle warmth.
Blackberries
Blackberries are rich in fiber, vitamin C, and anthocyanins, the antioxidant compounds responsible for their deep purple color.
Prep
Wash the blackberries and basil. Mince the red onion and garlic if needed.
How to Make Blackberry Basil Vinaigrette
Add the blackberries to a bullet blender and pulse once or twice until they are broken down and juicy.
Pour the blackberry mixture through a fine mesh strainer and press with the back of a spoon to extract as much juice and pulp as possible. Discard the seeds.
Return the strained blackberry mixture to the blender.
Add the basil, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, sugar, red onion, garlic, salt, and pepper.
Pulse once or twice until combined. Taste and adjust sweetness if desired.
Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to use.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
This dressing pairs particularly well with:
- Baby spinach salads
- Mixed greens
- Arugula salads
- Strawberry and berry salads
- Grain bowls
- Roasted vegetables
- Walnuts and pecans
- Vegan feta or other plant-based cheeses
Storing
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Shake or stir before serving, as natural separation may occur.
Tips and Tricks
- Use fully ripe blackberries for the best flavor.
- Pulse the berries only briefly before straining to keep the seeds intact.
- Adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of your berries and personal taste.
- Fresh basil provides the best flavor and aroma.
- For a thinner dressing, whisk in a tablespoon or two of water.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen blackberries?
Yes. Thaw them completely and drain excess liquid before using for the best consistency.
What type of oil works best in blackberry vinaigrette?
Extra-virgin olive oil provides the richest flavor, but avocado oil can also be used.
Can I make this dressing ahead of time?
Yes. It can be made up to 5 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
What salads pair best with blackberry vinaigrette?
Spinach salads, mixed greens, berry salads, and salads with nuts are especially good choices.
Why strain the blackberries?
Straining removes the seeds and creates a smoother, more refined vinaigrette. You can skip this step if a few seeds don’t bother you.
Blackberry Basil Vinaigrette Recipe
Ingredients
- ½ cup blackberries $1.50
- ⅓ cup fresh basil $0.50
- ⅓ cup olive oil $0.60
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar $0.20
- 2 teaspoons sugar adjusted to taste ($0.02)
- 1 tablespoon minced red onion $0.05
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic $0.03
- ½ teaspoon salt $0.01
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper $0.03
Instructions
- Place the blackberries in a bullet blender and pulse once or twice until broken down.
- Pour the blackberry mixture through a fine mesh strainer and press with a spoon to extract the juice and pulp. Discard the seeds.
- Return the strained blackberry mixture to the blender.
- Add the basil, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, sugar, red onion, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Pulse once or twice until combined.
- Taste and adjust sweetness if desired.
- Transfer to a jar and refrigerate until ready to serve.
The Wrap
This Blackberry Basil Vinaigrette is an easy way to add fresh seasonal flavor to salads and grain bowls. The combination of sweet berries, fresh basil, and balsamic vinegar creates a versatile dressing that works for both everyday meals and special occasions.
Hello! I’m Lisa, a vegan artist, photographer, author, Vegan Life Coach Educator, and RYT 200 yoga teacher. I love showing others how simple and delicious a plant-based diet can be. I draw and paint, cook, write, take lots of pics, eat lots of chocolate, and practice gratitude daily.