Elevate your grilling, roasting, or vegetable dishes with this vibrant and aromatic Fresh Basil and Balsamic Marinade. Bursting with the herbaceous essence of fresh basil leaves and the tangy depth of balsamic vinegar, this quick and easy marinade is perfectly balanced with the smooth richness of extra virgin olive oil, a touch of honey for sweetness, and the zesty brightness of fresh lemon juice. Just 10 minutes of prep time is all it takes to create this versatile marinade, enhanced by garlic's savory kick and the optional heat of red chili flakes. Ideal for chicken, fish, or grilled veggies, this marinade doubles as a flavorful dressing for salads. Make it ahead and let the flavors mingleβyour taste buds will thank you!
Wash and pat dry the fresh basil leaves.
In a food processor or blender, combine the basil leaves, peeled garlic cloves, and red chili flakes (if using).
Pulse a few times to roughly chop the basil and garlic.
Add the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper to the blender.
Blend until the mixture is smooth and emulsified.
Taste and adjust salt or acidity if desired.
Pour the marinade into a glass jar or bowl and let it sit for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Use the marinade immediately or store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Calories |
1106 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 112.2 g | 144% | |
| Saturated Fat | 16.0 g | 80% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 1198 mg | 52% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 33.6 g | 12% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.3 g | 5% | |
| Total Sugars | 26.6 g | ||
| Protein | 2.1 g | 4% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 76 mg | 6% | |
| Iron | 1.9 mg | 11% | |
| Potassium | 284 mg | 6% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.