Its a classic for a reason.

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I started watching “Barefoot Contessa” before I knew how to cook.

I love herPerfect Roast Chicken(of course),Weeknight Bolognese, andBeatty’s Chocolate Cake.

Headshot of Ina Garten wearing a black button-down shirt next to a photo of a mason jar filled with vinaigrette with a tiny whisk in it

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But the recipe I make the most often is one of her quickest and most versatile:Champagne Vinaigrette.

For me, that’s what makes it so good because the best foods are simple and executed perfectly.

With Ina’s vinaigrette, a delicious dinner upgrade you could use all week is only five minutes away.

Italian vinaigrette in a mason jar with fresh salad greens in a colander in the background.

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This recipe is great halved, doubled, or even tripled.

The other thing I love about Ina’s vinaigrette is that all of the ingredients are pantry staples.

I have perfected the ingredient list over the years.

I useTrader Joe’s Dijon Mustardbecause it’s affordable and imported from Dijon, Francea real value.

Fresh garlic, olive oil, kosher salt, and pepper are always in my kitchen.

The final ingredientchampagne vinegarcan be a little harder to find.

I found a brand of champagne vinegar I love,O Vinegar, and Whole Foods carries it.

O Vinegar makes aCitrus Champagne Vinegar, which is also delicious.

I also love using sherry vinegar and fresh herbs like flat-leaf parsley and chives.

It’s great with lime juice and a little Mexican oregano if youre pairing it with Tex-Mex food.

Sometimes, I add a little squeeze of honey for sweetness because the vinaigrette is quite tangy.

Adding Ina’s Champagne Vinaigrette to your repertoire is the easiest way to upgrade your weeknight cooking.