While balsamic vinegar has been around for centuries, it seems to be having a moment — and not just in a salad-dressing-ingredient kind of way. TikTok’s "Healthy Coke" gained lots of attention, for better or worse, earlier this summer, and we’re seeing new balsamic-based products every time we search the internet. So, we hate to break it to you, but if you’re still using balsamic vinegar for only salads, you’re basically years behind. Here, let us introduce you to five of our favorite ways to use balsamic vinegar, plus an easy vinaigrette recipe, because we cannot argue with greatness.

First Things First: Make a Vinaigrette

This four-ingredient dressing (pictured above) is simple but lovable. It’s filled with fresh basil and minced garlic, and it’ll dress up any greens you have in the fridge. Keep this recipe on hand and you’ll never have to worry when you run out of the bottled stuff — DIY in just five minutes.

Turn It Into a Drizzle

Ree Drummond's Caprese Skewers with Plum Balsamic Drizzle are a delicious way to kick off any get-together. In a food processor or blender, puree plums with balsamic vinegar until smooth, then pour into a pot and bring to a boil. Simmer until it becomes fairly thick, pour into a squeeze bottle and refrigerate. Just before you’re ready to serve guests, drizzle the balsamic-infused sauce over the skewers. Everyone will be impressed!

Use Balsamic to Marinate Meat

Fans cannot stop raving about Giada De Laurentiis’ Roasted Chicken with Balsamic Vinaigrette, which all starts with an easy marinade. Flavor the meat from the inside out with only balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, fresh lemon juice, garlic and olive oil.

Dress Up Veggies

While Ina Garten’s recipe for Balsamic-Roasted Brussels Sprouts calls for a tablespoon of syrupy balsamic vinegar, she says it’s fine if you can’t find really thick balsamic — you make your own. Simply boil regular balsamic vinegar until it thickens and can be poured like syrup. This recipe will surely win over even the self-proclaimed Brussels sprouts haters!

Pour Yourself a Balsamic-Infused Cocktail

We like that Ted Allen's Fresh Strawberry Balsamic Basil Daiquiri is not overly sweet, yet it's definitely refreshing. Just a touch of balsamic vinegar adds a mellow flavor that complements the strawberries in an unexpected but amazing way.

Welcome It to the Dessert Course

Yep, balsamic vinegar can also be used to make a delicious dessert! Ellie Krieger's recipe for Balsamic Strawberries with Ricotta Cream will wow guests at your next dinner party. Simply boil balsamic vinegar and sugar, then simmer the mixture for just a few minutes. You'll get a rich, dark balsamic syrup that is the perfect balance of sweet and tangy. You never knew it, but this is exactly what fresh strawberries have been missing.

Related Content:

TikTok Trends That Are Worth the Hype

'Balsamic' Vinegar Can Come from Anywhere

The 9 Most Viral TikTok Drinks You Can Make at Home