7 Delicious Ways to Use Balsamic Vinegar This Summer

Balsamic vinegar: that bottle in your pantry that you’re not quite sure how to use. It tastes amazing, but it can be tricky to figure out where it fits in your recipes. Well, with summer here, it’s time to get creative! Here are seven fun and easy ways to use balsamic vinegar in your summer meals.

1. Marinate Your Meats
Balsamic vinegar is a game-changer for marinades, especially for grilling. Just brush it over steak or chicken and let it sit in the fridge for a few hours before cooking. The flavor will blow you away.

Example: Mix Blackberry Balsamic Vinegar with Rosemary Olive Oil, salt, pepper,  and fresh chopped rosemary. Marinate chicken breasts for a couple of hours before grilling. Your taste buds will thank you, and maybe your neighbors will, too, when they smell it cooking.

2. Refreshing Salad Dressings
Balsamic vinegar is awesome in salad dressings, and summer is the perfect time to jazz it up with some citrus zest. Try adding a bit of orange or lime zest to your dressing for a fresh twist.

Example: Whisk together Traditional Balsamic Vinegar, orange zest, honey, and mustard. Toss it with greens, almonds, and mandarin oranges. Your salads just got a whole lot more exciting.

3. Fruit’s Best Friend
Strawberries and balsamic vinegar are a perfect match. The sweet and tangy combo is amazing, especially in summer. Drizzle it over fresh strawberries, or add it to ice cream for a treat.

Example: Slice strawberries and drizzle with Raspberry Dark Chocolate Balsamic Vinegar and a sprinkle of sugar. Let them sit for 10 minutes, then serve over vanilla ice cream. It’s a simple dessert that feels fancy.

4. Sautéed Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts are all the rage, and balsamic vinegar makes them even better. Add a splash to the pan a few minutes before they’re done cooking to create a tasty glaze.

Example: Sauté Brussels sprouts with Hickory Smoked Olive Oil and garlic. When they’re almost done, add Maple Balsamic Vinegar and cook until it thickens. Your guests will love the flavor.

5. Fancy Flatbreads
Flatbreads are a summer staple, and balsamic vinegar can take them to the next level. Whether you’re making them at home or ordering out, a drizzle of balsamic can add a touch of elegance.

Example: Make a caprese flatbread with mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil. Drizzle Traditional Balsamic Vinegar over the bread. It’s like pizza, but fancier.

6. Yogurt with a Twist
If you’re bored with plain yogurt, balsamic vinegar can spice things up. Just a few drops can transform your yogurt into something special. Add granola and fruit for a complete snack.

Example: Stir almost any of our balsamic vinegars into plain Greek yogurt and top with granola and fresh berries. It’s an adventurous and delicious twist on your usual snack.

7. Avocado Upgrade
Avocado lovers, this one’s for you. Balsamic vinegar adds a burst of flavor to avocado, whether you’re slicing it, making guacamole, or spreading it on toast. It makes a simple dish feel gourmet.

Example: Mash avocado on toast and drizzle with Traditional or any of our balsamic vinegars. Top with cherry tomatoes and sea salt. Your avocado toast just got a serious upgrade.

There you have it—seven simple ways to use balsamic vinegar this summer. Try these ideas and see how versatile and delicious balsamic vinegar can be. Enjoy your summer cooking adventures!