If you're looking to elevate your salads from ordinary to extraordinary, look no further than Jeff's Cilantro Vinaigrette Salad Dressing! This vibrant and zesty dressing, bursting with fresh cilantro and a hint of sweetness, is a game changer for any dish. In just five minutes, you can whip up a delicious homemade vinaigrette that will tantalize your taste buds and impress your guests. Whether drizzled over a crisp garden salad or used as a marinade for grilled vegetables, this dressing is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Ready to dive into the world of flavor? Let's get started!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 5 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 1 cup
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Thoroughly wash the fresh cilantro leaves under cold running water, gently patting them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Remove and discard any tough cilantro stems, keeping only the tender leaves and soft upper stems for the most vibrant flavor.
- In a high-powered blender or food processor, add the fresh cilantro leaves, ensuring they are loosely packed to allow for proper blending.
- Pour in the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and honey, creating a balanced base for the vinaigrette.
- Add a pinch of salt to enhance the overall flavor profile of the dressing.
- Secure the blender lid and pulse the ingredients several times to break down the cilantro leaves.
- Blend on high speed for 30-45 seconds until the mixture becomes smooth and the cilantro is completely incorporated.
- Stop and scrape down the sides of the blender with a spatula to ensure all ingredients are well combined.
- Taste the vinaigrette and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more salt or honey to balance the flavors.
- Transfer the dressing to a clean glass jar or airtight container for storage.
- Refrigerate the vinaigrette for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld together.
- Shake or whisk the dressing briefly before use, as natural separation may occur during storage.
Tips
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: For the best flavor, use fresh cilantro leaves. Avoid any wilted or yellowing leaves, as they can affect the taste of your vinaigrette.
- Balancing Flavors: Don’t hesitate to adjust the honey and salt according to your personal taste preferences. A little more honey can enhance the sweetness, while a pinch of salt can bring out the vibrant flavors of the cilantro.
- Storage Secrets: Store your vinaigrette in a clean glass jar or airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last up to a week, but the flavors are best enjoyed within the first few days.
- Blend it Right: Make sure to pulse the ingredients before blending on high speed. This helps to break down the cilantro more evenly, resulting in a smoother texture.
- Shake it Up: Since the vinaigrette may separate while sitting, give it a good shake or whisk before serving to recombine the ingredients.
- Versatile Use: Don’t limit this vinaigrette to salads! It also works wonderfully as a marinade for chicken, fish, or vegetables, adding a fresh twist to your meals.
- Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to experiment by adding other herbs like parsley or mint for a unique twist, or a squeeze of lime juice for an extra citrusy kick.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 35kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
