Fresh basil is literally one of my favorite parts about summer.  From pesto, to caprese salads, tossing it in stirfries, and making this Citrus Basil Vinaigrette, it adds incredible freshness and flavor to every recipe it touches.

citrus basil vinaigrette, basil vinaigrette, basil salad dressing

basil, basil vinaigrette, citrus basil vinaigrette

I have only two salad dressings I make at home (and to be honest, I LIVE for them both)- a basic lemon and olive oil dressing I use year round, and this Citrus Basil Vinaigrette that steals the show in the summer months.  It has the perfect balance of acidity, sweetness, and butteriness to jazz up even the simplest of salads.  But why stop at just salads?! It would be perfect to drizzle over roasted veggies, on protein, or maybe even dip some crusty bread in to.

basil, basil vinaigrette, citrus basil vinaigrette

Not only is basil one of my favorite herbs to cook with, it is also a good source of magnesium, which helps increase blood flow throughout the body, aids in relaxation, and is a digestive aid! As with most other green things, basil also serves as an antioxidant in the body, helping to protect your cells from free radicals- especially important in the summer from all of the sun’s energy!

basil, basil vinaigrette, citrus basil vinaigrette

So in the words of Rihanna, *pour it up pour it up* (or I guess we’re really pouring it ON)… either way get this Citrus Basil Vinaigrette in your life ASAP, you will never look back!

 

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