If you've been looking for a delicious honey balsamic vinaigrette full of delicious flavor, get ready because this recipe will blow you away. This balsamic vinaigrette dressing is full of fresh herbs, notes of honey and lime, and a dash of chili powder for a touch of added spice.
Ingredients
Balsamic Vinegar- the main ingredient in the vinaigrette. It adds deep, concentrated flavor to the dressing
Fresh Squeezed Lime Juice- adds a tangy touch to the dressing
Honey-adds sweetness to the balsamic vinaigrette
Fresh Oregano-adds a bit of robust, peppery flavor
Fresh Mint- a subtly sweet, refreshing element
Chili Powder-adds a subtle bit of spice to the dressing
Extra Virgin Olive Oil-acts as the binding agent to the other liquids in the dressing
Salt & Pepper-brings out the flavors in all of the ingredients
What is balsamic vinaigrette dressing made of?
Traditionally speaking, a balsamic vinaigrette is made using balsamic vinegar, of course, honey, and either maple syrup or honey. This particular vinaigrette is a bit milder because it does not have dijon mustard. Honey is used here to sweeten the dressing as well as mellow out the acidity of the vinegar.
How to make balsamic vinaigrette
Balsamic vinaigrette is made with one part vinegar to three parts oil. One of the most important steps to making a vinaigrette or salad dressing, in general, is to make sure it is well emulsified. In order to achieve this, you will need to make sure that you mix the ingredients using either a whisk or food processor. The idea is to create a quick movement that adds air and results in a well-blended and smooth mixture. In this recipe, the honey will act as a great emulsifier, aiding in this process.
Variations for the best balsamic vinaigrette
The addition of dijon mustard can be included if you are looking for a different type of added flavor. If you're looking for a honey substitute to make this dressing vegan, simply use maple syrup or even agave nectar!
What to serve with the best balsamic vinaigrette
This dressing is best paired with any type of fruity salad. My Watermelon Feta Salad with Honey Lime Balsamic Vinaigrette is the perfect pair for this particular vinaigrette. Generally speaking, this would pair exceptionally well with any type of salad that has cherries, watermelon, strawberries, apples, or pears in the ingredients. I am picturing this with a beautiful salad full of candied pecans, pears, gorgonzola cheese, and a nice blend of greens.
Substitutions
Dried herbs can be used in place of fresh ones but keep in mind that dry herbs pack a bit more flavor. Typically, dried herbs have a deeper and spicier flavor than its fresh counterparts so a good ratio for use is 1:3.
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The Best Balsamic Vinaigrette
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: ¼ cup 1x
Description
A refreshing dressing with a blend of fresh oregano and mint. Honey and lime juice elevate the flavors and chili powder adds a bit of spice.
Ingredients
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 teaspoon freshly chopped oregano
2 teaspoons freshly chopped mint
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon lime juice
4 tablespoons honey
¼ teaspoon salt
⅛ teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- Combine oregano, mint, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl; whisk to combine. Alternatively, use a food processor; add one ingredient at a time and blend at medium-high speed until dressing is smooth.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Cuisine: American, Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ½ cup
- Calories: 329
- Sugar: 37.4 g
- Sodium: 335 mg
- Fat: 21.2 g
- Carbohydrates: 39 g
- Protein: 0.5 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg