Ken's Lite Balsamic Vinaigrette contains inflammatory seed oils (soybean and canola oil) plus artificial preservatives. This DIY version eliminates all seed oils in favor of heart-healthy extra virgin olive oil while using organic ingredients and no preservatives for a cleaner, more nutritious dressing.
Based on: Lite Balsamic Vinaigrette
· Makes approximately 32 servings
· Serving: 2 tablespoons (31g)
Why This Recipe is Seed Oil Free
Commercial Lite Balsamic Vinaigrette from Ken's Steak House often contains inflammatory seed oils like canola, soybean, or sunflower oil. This homemade version replaces them with healthier fats like butter, ghee, coconut oil, or avocado oil — giving you the same great taste without the processed oils.
The original Lite Balsamic Vinaigrette may also contain artificial dyes. Check it on DyeFreeCheck to find out.
Ingredients
Organic balsamic vinegar
240ml (1 cup) · Napa Valley Naturals Organic Balsamic Vinegar
Provides the signature tangy-sweet flavor base that defines balsamic vinaigrette
Extra virgin olive oil
240ml (1 cup) · California Olive Ranch Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Replaces inflammatory seed oils with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and creates the oil base for emulsification
Filtered water
360ml (1.5 cups) · Filtered tap water or spring water
Dilutes the dressing to achieve the 'lite' lower-calorie profile while maintaining pourability
Provides natural sweetness to balance the acidity of vinegar, replacing refined sugar
Fine sea salt
8g (1.5 teaspoons) · Redmond Real Salt Fine
Enhances all flavors and provides the sodium content that matches the commercial version
Organic garlic powder
2g (1 teaspoon) · Simply Organic Garlic Powder
Adds savory depth and aromatic complexity without the texture of fresh garlic
Organic onion powder
1g (1/2 teaspoon) · Simply Organic Onion Powder
Contributes sweet-savory umami notes that complement the garlic
Organic red bell pepper powder
0.5g (1/4 teaspoon) · Frontier Co-op Organic Red Bell Pepper Powder
Adds mild sweetness and natural color without artificial additives
Organic xanthan gum
1g (1/4 teaspoon) · Bob's Red Mill Organic Xanthan Gum
Acts as a natural emulsifier to prevent oil separation and create smooth texture
Instructions
Step 1. Combine all dry ingredients (coconut sugar, sea salt, garlic powder, onion powder, red bell pepper powder, and xanthan gum) in a small bowl and whisk thoroughly for 1-2 minutes to eliminate any lumps—xanthan gum clumps easily if not properly dispersed.
Step 2. In a large mixing bowl, pour the balsamic vinegar and add the dry ingredient mixture. Whisk vigorously for 30 seconds to ensure the coconut sugar fully dissolves and the xanthan gum begins to hydrate.
Step 3. While whisking continuously, slowly drizzle in the olive oil in a thin stream over 2-3 minutes—this gradual addition creates a stable emulsion. The mixture should thicken slightly and become creamy rather than oily.
Step 4. Add the filtered water gradually while whisking, about 1/3 cup at a time, until fully incorporated. The dressing should have a pourable consistency similar to heavy cream—if too thick, add water 1 tablespoon at a time.
Step 5. Transfer to a blender or immersion blender and blend for 30-45 seconds on high speed to create the smoothest possible emulsion and ensure complete xanthan gum incorporation.
Step 6. Taste and adjust seasoning—add more salt if needed (commercial dressings are quite salty), more coconut sugar for sweetness, or more balsamic vinegar for tang. The flavor should be well-balanced with no single element dominating.
Step 7. Pour into clean glass bottles or mason jars, leaving 1 inch headspace. Store refrigerated for up to 3 weeks. Shake vigorously before each use as natural separation is normal without artificial emulsifiers.
Step 8. To use: Shake bottle well and drizzle 2 tablespoons over salads. This amount provides the same serving size as the commercial version but with clean, organic ingredients and beneficial olive oil instead of inflammatory seed oils.
Storage
Store refrigerated in glass containers for up to 3 weeks. Shake well before each use as separation is natural without preservatives. Do not freeze as this breaks the emulsion.
Cost Comparison
Cost per serving (homemade)$0.19
Cost per serving (store-bought)$0.45
Savings58%
While the upfront cost is higher due to buying organic ingredients in bulk, the per-serving savings are substantial. The health benefits of eliminating seed oils and preservatives make this investment worthwhile.