Vinaigrette Primer

Directions

1. 1
   Choose a bowl that is large enough for vigorous whisking.
2. 2
   Add garlic, shallot, mustard, acid, and seasoning to the bowl.
3. 3
   Whisk vigorously.
4. 4
   Once the emulsion is established, drizzle in your chosen oil - a few drops at a time - until the mixture absorbs it.
5. 5
   The texture will change to tell you that you can drizzle a little faster.
6. 6
   Do not overwhelm the emulsion.
7. 7
   Patience is essential.
8. 8
   Taste it on a lettuce leaf and adjust the seasoning, as desired.
9. 9
   The dressing will be overpowering by itself.
10. 10
    Good, it should be because you aren't going to drown you salad in dressing.
11. 11
    Tips: For a milder garlic flavor, cut the clove in half, lengthwise, and rub the bowl with the cut side.
12. 12
    Discard the clove or reserve it for another use.
13. 13
    Onion does not provide the same flavor as shallot.
14. 14
    I use shallot or skip it.
15. 15
    The mustard helps the emulsion get going and adds a slight zing to the dressing.
16. 16
    It will not taste 'mustardy.'
17. 17
    For specialty recipes, you might want whole grain mustard, flavored mustards, etc.
18. 18
    This is your recipe, now.
19. 19
    Note: Never overdress your salad.
20. 20
    The greens become soggy and over-tart.
21. 21
    The mouthfeel is very unpleasant.
22. 22
    A side salad is about 2 cups of mixed greens.
23. 23
    For 4 servings, use about half of your dressing.
24. 24
    Using tongs, turn your greens over and over to 'dress the salad;' then, arrange the leaves on the salad plate and add garnishes like tomatoes, orange slices, cheese, nuts, etc.
25. 25
    Serve immediately.
26. 26
    To go instructions: Prepare dressing and store in a tightly sealed container for transport.
27. 27
    Do not dress the greens until time to serve.
28. 28
    Refrigerate remaining dressing in a sealed container for up to one week.
29. 29
    Allow it to come to room temperature and shake well before serving.