Make to modify basic vinaigrette

• Rub the bowl with garlic before mixing the dressing, and add thinly chopped shallots.

• Add your preferred herbs, preferably fresh. The more pungent herbs, such as thyme and rosemary, should be used carefully.

• Mix in cumin, coriander or curry powder, fennel seeds or other spices. Try to match the flavors with those in your salad or in the entree.

• For another complement to the rest of your meal, mix in a few teaspoons of pan juices or broth from your main course.

• Add a few crushed juniper berries. To build on this flavor, add a teaspoon or so of gin.
• Alternate lemon juice for some of the vinegar.

• Add the grated zest (colored section of peel) of a preferred citrus fruit. For a more pronounced citrus flavor, substitute the fruit juices for some of the vinegar.

• Substitute a tart or acidic fruit juice, such as tart cherry or, cranberry for some of the vinegar.
• Complement Asian-style meals by adding grated ginger or crushed lemon grass.