Freshly squeezed oranges and limes, together with chopped cilantro, finely sliced jalapeño, olive oil, salt, and pepper, are used to make citrus-lime vinaigrette. It is a spicy, sweet, acidic, and tart vinaigrette recipe. In other words, there is a ton of taste in it!
Vinaigrette Recipe with a Kick
I love experimenting with different dressings and sauces to add a burst of flavor to my salads and bowls, and this citrus lime vinaigrette has quickly become a staple in my kitchen. The combination of tangy lime, fresh cilantro, and spicy jalapeno gives this dressing a unique and flavorful kick that's sure to wake up your taste buds. As someone who loves Mexican cuisine, I particularly enjoy the spicy flavors typically found in Mexican recipes, and this vinaigrette delivers just that.
The heat from the jalapeno adds a nice touch of spice that pairs perfectly with the tangy citrus notes from the lime juice. To make this dressing, I simply combine freshly squeezed lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, diced jalapeno, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a jar and give it a good shake. It's quick and easy to make and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, making it a convenient option for meal prep.
Tips for Using Jalapeno Peppers
When I cook with jalapeno peppers, I have learned that their spiciness level can vary depending on the cultivar. The heat comes from the light-colored membrane and seeds, so to reduce the heat, I usually remove them before dicing. However, for those who prefer more spice, adding some seeds back into the recipe can help achieve that. But I must always be careful when handling jalapeno peppers because they contain an oil that can cause a burning sensation, even after washing hands with soap and water. It's essential to avoid touching the face or eyes while handling them.
How To Make Citrus Lime Vinaigrette
Making a citrus lime vinaigrette is one of the easiest things you can do to dress up any salad. As a food enthusiast, I love experimenting with different flavors and making my own dressings. Here's how I make my citrus lime vinaigrette. Lime juice, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, chopped garlic, salt, and black pepper should all be combined in a small bowl. The components should be well mixed after whisking. To the bowl, add the diced jalapeño pepper and chopped cilantro.
To fully incorporate all the ingredients, whisk again. If necessary, taste and adjust the seasoning. For up to a week, keep the vinaigrette in the refrigerator in an airtight container. Before using, give the vinaigrette a vigorous shake or whisk if it separates. I love making my own dressings because I know exactly what ingredients are going into it. Plus, it's always fun to experiment with different flavor combinations.
With this citrus lime vinaigrette, the combination of honey, Dijon mustard, garlic, and jalapeno gives it a unique and zesty taste. You can also adjust the level of spiciness by adding more or less jalapeno seeds. Now that you know how to make this delicious vinaigrette, try it on your favorite salad, grilled chicken, or fish. The possibilities are endless!
How to Refrigerate Vinaigrette:
Put the citrus lime vinaigrette in an airtight jar or container and put it in the fridge to preserve it. In the refrigerator, the vinaigrette can keep for up to a week. Give the dressing a thorough shake or whisk before using if it separates or becomes thick.
How to Freeze Vinaigrette:
Although citrus lime vinaigrette may be stored, bear in mind that once thawed, the dressing's texture and consistency can change. Transfer the vinaigrette to a freezer-safe container or bag and allow some space for expansion before freezing. Vinaigrettes that have been frozen can be kept there for up to six months. The dressing should be shaken or whisked well before use after thawing in the refrigerator overnight.
How to Reheat Vinaigrette (If Required):
Vinaigrette doesn't necessarily need to be reheated, but if you have stored it in the fridge and find that it has become thick or solidified, you can bring it back to its original consistency by letting it sit at room temperature for a few minutes or by placing the container in a bowl of warm water for a few minutes. Avoid microwaving or heating the vinaigrette on the stove, as this may cause the dressing to break or separate.
FAQs
Is it necessary to use fresh cilantro and jalapeno in the vinaigrette?
Fresh ingredients are always preferred, as they provide the best flavor. However, you can use dried cilantro or jalapeno powder if fresh ingredients are not available.
Can I use the vinaigrette as a marinade for meat or vegetables?
Yes, the citrus lime vinaigrette can also be used as a marinade for meat or vegetables. Just make sure to set some aside before using it as a dressing to avoid cross-contamination.
Conclusion
Making your own citrus lime vinaigrette is a quick and easy way to add flavor to your salads or dishes. With just a few ingredients, you can customize the dressing to your liking and store it in the fridge or freezer for later use.
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