Are you looking to elevate your grilling game? This balsamic vinegar marinade is the perfect solution to infuse your meats and vegetables with a tangy, rich flavor that will leave your taste buds dancing. It’s simple, quick, and packed with ingredients you probably already have on hand.
This marinade isn’t just about flavor; it brings a beautiful balance of acidity and sweetness that helps to tenderize your proteins. Whether you’re marinating steak, chicken, or even vegetables for a summer BBQ, this recipe delivers delicious results every time.
Feel free to customize the marinade by adding herbs or spices to match your dish. This versatility makes it a staple in any kitchen, ready to bring a burst of flavor to your meals.
Ingredients That Shine
The zesty balsamic vinegar marinade is a blend of simple yet flavorful ingredients. At its core, it features balsamic vinegar, which provides a deep, tangy flavor profile.
Complementing this are the rich notes of olive oil, honey or maple syrup for sweetness, and minced garlic that adds a punch. Dried oregano and basil contribute aromatic elements, bringing the entire mixture together.
Preparation Made Simple
Creating this marinade is a straightforward process that can be done in just a few minutes. Start by combining your ingredients in a bowl or jar.
Whisk them together until they are thoroughly blended, ensuring that the oil emulsifies with the vinegar. This step is essential for achieving a smooth consistency that clings well to your meats and vegetables.
Marination Magic
Once your marinade is ready, the next step is marinating your ingredients. Whether you’re using chicken, steak, or an assortment of vegetables, this marinade enhances their flavors significantly.
Place your selected items in a resealable bag or shallow dish, then pour the marinade over them, ensuring an even coat. Cover the dish or seal the bag, and let it sit in the refrigerator.
Timing is Key
The duration of marination can dramatically affect the outcome. For optimal flavor, a minimum of 30 minutes is recommended, but for a more robust taste, marinate for up to 24 hours.
During this time, the acidity of the vinegar works to tenderize the proteins, making them more succulent when cooked. Just remember to discard any leftover marinade after use!
Grilling Guidelines
When you’re ready to cook, the marinade has done its job, enriching your ingredients with vibrant flavors. Remove the items from the marinade and cook them to your preference, whether it’s grilling, baking, or sautéing.
If grilling, be sure to preheat your grill for that perfect sear. The marinade will also create a lovely caramelization on the surface, enhancing both the appearance and flavor of your dish.
Versatility on the Plate
This marinade isn’t limited to just one type of dish – it’s incredibly versatile. Feel free to customize it further by adding different herbs or spices that align with your culinary needs.
It’s suitable for a variety of proteins and vegetables, making it a valuable addition to your cooking repertoire. Enjoy experimenting with it and discover how it elevates your meals throughout the year.
Easy and Flavorful Balsamic Vinegar Marinade
This balsamic vinegar marinade is a harmonious blend of tangy balsamic vinegar, rich olive oil, and aromatic herbs. It not only enhances the natural flavors of your ingredients but also ensures that they remain juicy and tender while cooking.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a bowl or jar, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper until well blended.
- Marinate: Place your choice of meat or vegetables in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the top, ensuring everything is evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate.
- Timing: For best results, marinate for at least 30 minutes, but you can leave it for up to 24 hours for more intense flavor.
- Cook: Remove from the marinade and cook your proteins or vegetables as desired. Discard any leftover marinade.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Marinate Time: 30 minutes to 24 hours
- Total Time: 35 minutes to 24 hours
Nutrition Information
- Servings: Makes enough marinade for 2 pounds of meat or 4 cups of vegetables
- Calories: 120kcal per serving (1 tablespoon)
- Fat: 12g
- Protein: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
