Cherry-Chipotle Balsamic Vinaigrette

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cherry-chipotle balsamic vinaigrette is the perfect balance of sweet, smoky, and tangy. The cherries add a fresh sweetness that complements the heat from the chipotle peppers, while the balsamic vinegar provides an earthy depth. It’s versatile, too—great on salads, grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or even as a dipping sauce. The combination of fruity and spicy flavors will add a new dimension to your meals, and it’s quick and easy to make, bringing a gourmet touch to everyday dishes.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted

• 1-2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (depending on desired spice level)

• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar

• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• Salt and pepper, to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the cherries: If using fresh cherries, pit and chop them into small pieces. If using frozen cherries, thaw them and drain any excess liquid.

2. Blend the ingredients: In a blender or food processor, combine the cherries, chipotle peppers, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey (if using), Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and well combined.

3. Taste and adjust: Taste the vinaigrette and adjust the flavors as needed. If you prefer more heat, add an additional chipotle pepper. For more sweetness, add a little more honey or maple syrup. You can also add a little extra balsamic vinegar for tang.

4. Serve: Transfer the vinaigrette to a jar or bottle for storage. Shake or stir before using to ensure the ingredients are well combined.

5. Storage: Store any leftover vinaigrette in the refrigerator for up to one week. The vinaigrette may thicken when chilled, so simply bring it to room temperature and shake or stir before using.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 3/4 cup of vinaigrette, which should be enough for 4-6 servings of salad. The preparation time is about 10 minutes, making it quick and easy to whip up.

Variations

• Add herbs: Add fresh herbs like basil, mint, or thyme to the vinaigrette for an added layer of flavor.

• Smokier flavor: If you want even more smokiness, you can add a little smoked paprika or use smoked balsamic vinegar instead of regular balsamic.

• Fruit variations: For a different twist, you can try swapping the cherries for other fruits like strawberries, raspberries, or peaches, depending on what’s in season.

• Vegan-friendly: This recipe is already vegan, but you can adjust the sweetener (using maple syrup) for a fully plant-based dressing.

Storage/Reheating

Store the vinaigrette in an airtight container or jar in the refrigerator for up to one week. It’s best served chilled or at room temperature, so let it sit out for a few minutes if it has been refrigerated before using.

FAQs

Can I use dried cherries instead of fresh or frozen?

Yes, you can use dried cherries if fresh or frozen ones are unavailable. Just be sure to soak them in warm water for about 15 minutes to soften them before blending.

How spicy is this vinaigrette?

The heat level will depend on the number of chipotle peppers you use. For a mild spice, use just one pepper, or for more heat, add two. You can always taste the vinaigrette and adjust the spice level to your preference.

Can I make this vinaigrette in advance?

Yes, this vinaigrette can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. The flavors may deepen and develop over time, so making it a day or two in advance can enhance the taste.

Can I make this vinaigrette without chipotle peppers?

If you’re not a fan of spicy foods, you can omit the chipotle peppers entirely. The vinaigrette will still be delicious, though it won’t have the smoky heat. You could try adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika for a milder smoky flavor.

What dishes does this vinaigrette pair well with?

This vinaigrette is perfect for drizzling over salads with greens, goat cheese, or even roasted vegetables. It also works wonderfully as a marinade for grilled chicken, pork, or steak. You can use it on grain bowls, quinoa, or as a dressing for a fruit salad.

How do I prevent the vinaigrette from separating?

To prevent separation, shake or stir the vinaigrette before each use. If the olive oil solidifies in the fridge, just let the dressing sit at room temperature for a few minutes and shake it well before using.

Can I use a different type of vinegar?

Yes, you can experiment with different vinegars such as red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar, though balsamic vinegar offers a rich, complex flavor that complements the sweetness of the cherries.

How long will this vinaigrette last?

This cherry-chipotle balsamic vinaigrette can be stored in the fridge for up to a week. Be sure to store it in a tightly sealed container or jar to keep it fresh.

Conclusion

Cherry-chipotle balsamic vinaigrette is a dynamic and delicious dressing that brings together the sweetness of cherries, the smoky heat of chipotle, and the tang of balsamic vinegar. It’s a versatile, easy-to-make dressing that can elevate any salad or dish with its bold and exciting flavors. Whether used as a dressing, a marinade, or a dipping sauce, this vinaigrette adds a unique and memorable twist to your meals, making it a must-try for anyone looking to spice up their usual repertoire.