Cherry-Chipotle Balsamic Vinaigrette
Cherry-chipotle balsamic vinaigrette is a vibrant, bold dressing that blends sweet cherries, smoky chipotle peppers, and tangy balsamic vinegar, perfect for salads, grilled vegetables, or meats.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 3/4 cup
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
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 maple syrup or honey (optional, for sweetness)
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Prepare the cherries: Pit and chop fresh cherries, or thaw frozen cherries and drain any excess liquid.
- Blend the ingredients: In a blender or food processor, combine cherries, chipotle peppers, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, maple syrup (if using), Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
- Taste and adjust: Adjust the heat by adding more chipotle peppers or the sweetness with additional honey or maple syrup. You can also add extra balsamic vinegar for more tang.
- Serve: Transfer to a jar or bottle for storage. Shake or stir before use to combine the ingredients well.
Notes
- Add herbs: Fresh herbs like basil, mint, or thyme can enhance the flavor of the vinaigrette.
- Smokier flavor: Add smoked paprika or smoked balsamic vinegar for more smokiness.
- Fruit variations: Swap cherries for other fruits like raspberries, strawberries, or peaches for a seasonal twist.
- Storage: Store in the refrigerator for up to one week. The vinaigrette may thicken when chilled; bring it to room temperature and shake before using.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
- Calories: 50
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 75mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
