If you’re looking for a fresh, zesty, and utterly irresistible dressing to drizzle over your salads, tacos, or grilled meats, you’ve just found it! This Cilantro Lime Vinaigrette is bright, tangy, and packed with vibrant flavors that will wake up any dish. The combination of fresh cilantro, lime juice, and a hint of garlic creates a perfectly balanced dressing that’s both refreshing and deeply flavorful.
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Trust me, once you try this, you’ll be looking for excuses to put it on everything. And the best part? It’s ridiculously easy to make—just blend, pour, and enjoy!
Why You’ll Love Cilantro Lime Vinaigrette
This dressing isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about enhancing every bite with bold, fresh flavors. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week, dressing up a simple salad, or adding an extra punch to grilled dishes, this vinaigrette is a must-have. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
- Versatile: Perfect as a salad dressing, marinade, or drizzle for tacos, grain bowls, and roasted veggies.
- Quick and Easy: Takes just minutes to blend together—no fancy techniques required.
- Healthy: Made with wholesome, fresh ingredients and no preservatives.
- Customizable: Adjust the tanginess, spice, or sweetness to your liking.
- Bursting with Flavor: The freshness of cilantro and lime makes every dish taste brighter and more vibrant.
Ingredients in Cilantro Lime Vinaigrette
Here’s what makes this dressing so irresistible:
- Fresh Cilantro: The key ingredient that gives this vinaigrette its signature flavor. If you’re a cilantro lover, you’re in for a treat!
- Lime Juice: Adds a bright, tangy punch that balances the richness of the oil. Freshly squeezed is best.
- Olive Oil: The base of the vinaigrette, adding a smooth and silky texture.
- Garlic: Brings a touch of warmth and depth to the flavor.
- Honey (or Maple Syrup): Just a hint of sweetness to balance the acidity.
- Dijon Mustard: Helps emulsify the dressing while adding a subtle tang.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: Enhances the tartness and brings out the flavors.
- Salt & Pepper: Essential for balancing all the flavors.
(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful vinaigrette:
Blend Everything Together: Add all the ingredients to a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth and emulsified. If needed, scrape down the sides and blend again to ensure everything is well incorporated.
Adjust to Taste: Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add more lime juice for extra tang, a touch more honey for sweetness, or an extra pinch of salt to bring out the flavors.
Store & Serve: Pour the vinaigrette into a jar or airtight container. Use immediately, or let it sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Shake or stir before using.
How to Serve Cilantro Lime Vinaigrette
This zesty dressing pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes:
- Drizzle over salads for a fresh, herbaceous boost.
- Use as a marinade for chicken, shrimp, or tofu to infuse bold flavors.
- Pour over grain bowls with quinoa, rice, or roasted veggies.
- Enhance tacos or burritos by adding a punch of flavor.
- Serve with grilled meats or seafood for a citrusy, herby finish.
Additional Tips
- Make it Creamy: Blend in half an avocado or a spoonful of Greek yogurt for a creamier texture.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño for some heat.
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Shake well before using.
- Thin it Out: If the vinaigrette thickens in the fridge, just whisk in a little water or extra lime juice before serving.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use dried cilantro instead of fresh?
A1: Fresh cilantro is best for this recipe, as dried won’t provide the same bright, vibrant flavor.
Q2: Can I substitute lime juice with lemon juice?
A2: Yes! Lemon juice will give a slightly different flavor but will still be delicious.
Q3: How long does this vinaigrette last?
A3: It stays fresh for about 5-7 days in the refrigerator.
Q4: Can I freeze this dressing?
A4: Freezing isn’t recommended, as the fresh ingredients may lose their flavor and texture.
Q5: Can I use another type of oil?
A5: Absolutely! Avocado oil works great as a substitute for olive oil.
Q6: How do I keep the vinaigrette from separating?
A6: The Dijon mustard helps with emulsification, but give it a good shake before each use.
Q7: Can I make this ahead of time?
A7: Yes! In fact, letting it sit for a few hours enhances the flavors even more.
Q8: Is this dressing vegan?
A8: Yes, if you use maple syrup instead of honey, it’s completely vegan.
Q9: What if I don’t like garlic?
A9: You can omit the garlic or reduce the amount for a milder flavor.
Q10: Can I use a hand whisk instead of a blender?
A10: Yes, but chop the cilantro very finely, and whisk vigorously to combine.
Final Thoughts
This Cilantro Lime Vinaigrette is a total game-changer fresh, zesty, and packed with flavor! Whether you’re dressing a salad, marinating proteins, or drizzling it over your favorite dishes, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Give it a try, and let me know how you use it!
Print
Cilantro Lime Vinaigrette
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 cup 1x
- Category: Dressing
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This zesty cilantro lime vinaigrette is the perfect way to add a burst of fresh flavor to your salads, tacos, grain bowls, and grilled dishes. Made with fresh cilantro, tangy lime juice, and a touch of honey, this healthy homemade recipe is a delicious balance of citrusy, herby, and slightly sweet flavors. It’s quick to make, naturally gluten-free, and a fantastic choice for those looking for healthy recipes easy to whip up. Whether you’re meal prepping or looking for quick dinner ideas, this dressing will elevate any dish!
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh cilantro, packed
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup for vegan option)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons water (adjust for consistency)
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to a blender or food processor.
- Blend until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.
- Taste and adjust seasoning or consistency by adding more water if necessary.
- Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add a small jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Store in a glass jar and shake before using if separation occurs.
- Great as a marinade for chicken, fish, or tofu.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 90 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1.3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 0.3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg