Vinaigrette

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By Jean-Georges Vongerichten and Mark Bittman

Published 2000

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Vinaigrette is any combination of oil, acid—usually vinegar—and seasonings. Within those boundaries, there are countless possibilities. We explore five, using a couple of unusual techniques, and hope that they inspire you to experiment further with this, the most versatile of all sauces.

We start with a basic vinaigrette, just olive oil and lemon juice. Next, another fairly standard vinaigrette, and one that happens to be one of Jean-Georges’ favorites, spiked with honey, garlic, and balsamic vinegar. The next three are unusual and quite super: one based on beurre noisette, another loaded with chopped vegetables—this will turn any simple grilled or broiled food into a great dish—and, finally, truffle vinaigrette, a magnificent treat.