While vinegar can be used in a variety of different recipes, perhaps the most common is salad dressing. Homemade salad dressing essentially consists of equal parts olive oil, vinegar, and whatever herbs or spices you might want to add. Simply stir together or shake it up, and you have fresh salad dressing — it’s that simple!
And you simply cannot talk about Italian vinegar and salad dressing, and not mention the best vinegar for Italian salad dressing. To make your own version of this classic salad topping, we suggest either white wine or red wine vinegar as your base. Either variety will work, but red wine vinegar is known for a more complex and robust flavor, while white wine vinegar is noted for its tart bite. It is really up to your taste to decide what is going to work best for you.
That being said, for a white wine option, we suggest a bottle of Fattoria Estense White Wine Vinegar. This variety has just enough bite to wake your senses but is still smooth and flavorful. For a red wine vinegar option, we recommend opting for Mantova Red Wine Vinegar. Thanks to its maturation in wooden casks, this particular Italian red wine vinegar is incredibly fragrant and rich in flavor. Simply use either of these vinegars to get fresh Italian salad dressing in no time.
Balsamic dressing is another easy one to make in the comfort of your home. Simply mix equal parts olive oil and Balsamic Vinegar of Modena by Marinella with a pinch of salt and pepper. You can even make a flavored balsamic vinegar with fruity versions like Mantova Italian Organic Pear Balsamic Vinegar. Follow the same recipes and it is as easy as that.
Salad dressing and Italian vinegar may be a no-brainer, but do not shy away from using vinegar in other directions, like dessert. Vinegar of Modena naturally has a sweetness to it that creative chefs have turned into a glaze, like the Fig Balsamic Glaze from Acetum Blaze. This sticky vinegar pairs well with cheeses, fruits, and even poured over vanilla gelato.
No matter how you choose to enjoy Italian vinegar, it is an absolute staple for every well-stocked kitchen.