Applebee's Blue Cheese Vinaigrette (Close Clone)

Ingredients:

• 7 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 3/4 cup crumbled blue cheese (about 2 1/2 ounces)
• 1/4 cup white wine vinegar
• 1 tablespoon water
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon hot pepper sauce (like Tabasco)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground pepper
• 1 teaspoon chopped fresh basil
  

Directions:

1. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in heavy small skillet over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons minced garlic and sauté until golden, about 1 minute.
2. Transfer garlic mixture to blender. Add blue cheese, white wine vinegar, 1 tablespoon water, sugar, hot pepper sauce, salt, pepper and remaining olive oil; blend well.
3. Transfer vinaigrette to bowl. Mix in chopped basil.
4. Vinaigrette can be prepared two days ahead.
5. Cover and refrigerate.