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citrus vinaigrette Recipe

citrus vinaigrette Recipe
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A zesty and vibrant citrus vinaigrette that brightens salads and enhances a variety of dishes with a tangy, sweet, and savory dressing made from fresh citrus juice, olive oil, honey or maple syrup, and Dijon mustard. Quick and versatile, perfect for salads, grilled meats, roasted vegetables, and more.

Ingredients

Scale

Primary Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup fresh citrus juice (orange, lemon, or lime)
  • 1/3 cup olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

Optional Ingredients

  • Fresh herbs (parsley, basil, or cilantro), chopped, to taste
  • Pinch of red chili flakes or finely chopped jalapeños (for spicy kick)
  • Fresh tarragon or thyme (for herb infusion)
  • Agave nectar or brown sugar (as alternative sweeteners)
  • Avocado oil or walnut oil (as olive oil alternatives)
  • Toasted sesame seeds or crushed nuts (for texture and richness)

Instructions

  1. Juice Your Citrus: Start by squeezing fresh citrus fruits such as lemons, oranges, and limes into a bowl or jar. Strain out any seeds or excess pulp to create a smooth juice base, ensuring bright flavor and natural sweetness.
  2. Add the Mustard and Sweetener: Whisk in the Dijon mustard along with honey or maple syrup. These ingredients help create a smooth, emulsified texture and balance the tartness with sweetness.
  3. Slowly Drizzle in Olive Oil: While whisking vigorously, gradually add the olive oil. This slow incorporation helps the vinaigrette emulsify, producing a silky, cohesive dressing without separation.
  4. Season to Taste: Add salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and any optional fresh herbs you prefer. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning or sweetness by adding more citrus juice or sweetener as needed.
  5. Store or Serve: Pour the vinaigrette over your favorite salads immediately or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Shake or whisk well before each use.

Notes

  • Use fresh citrus juice for the brightest flavor; avoid bottled juice if possible.
  • Add oil slowly while whisking to ensure a stable emulsification that won’t separate.
  • Adjust sweetness gradually to balance the acidity without overpowering it.
  • Use room temperature ingredients to aid emulsification.
  • For extra smooth vinaigrette, blend all ingredients for 30 seconds instead of whisking.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight glass container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
  • Freezing is not recommended as oil may solidify and separate upon thawing.
  • This vinaigrette is intended for cold usage and should not be reheated.

Nutrition

Keywords: citrus vinaigrette, salad dressing, fresh dressing, citrus dressing, healthy vinaigrette, easy vinaigrette, homemade dressing, tangy dressing

Find it online: https://mealsbylina.com/citrus-vinaigrette-recipe/