- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons or more good red or white wine vinegar
- Salt and fresh-ground black pepper to taste
- 1 heaping teaspoon Dijon mustard, optional
- 3 anchovy fillets, or more to taste, with some of their oil
- 1 large shallot (about 1 ounce), peeled and cut into chunks
Step 1: Combine all ingredients except shallot in a blender, and turn the machine on. A creamy emulsion will form within 30 seconds. Taste, and add more vinegar if necessary, about a teaspoon at a time, until the balance tastes right.
Step 2: Add shallot, and turn machine on and off a few times, until shallot is minced within the dressing. Taste, adjust seasoning and serve. (This vinaigrette is best made fresh but will keep refrigerated for a few days. Before using, bring it back to room temperature, and whisk briefly.)