Balsamic vinaigrette is a very basic salad dressing. A 2-minute job at the most! I love to keep a jar in my refrigerator so I can dress my salads in a jiffy like I did for my summer pasta salad. - In a small jar with a tight lid, add balsamic vinegar, olive oil, maple syrup, and dried thyme. - Add in salt and pepper to taste, and then shake it all. - Pour the dressing on the salad. Store the leftover salad dressing in the refrigerator.