Flavorful Chipotle Vinaigrette Copycat Recipe Easy Zesty Salad Dressing
A smoky, spicy, and tangy chipotle vinaigrette that is quick to make and perfect for salads, roasted veggies, or grilled chicken. This copycat recipe balances smoky chipotle peppers with tangy vinegar and a touch of honey for a zesty, crowd-pleasing dressing.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: About 3/4 cup (12 tablespoons), approximately 6 servings (2 tablespoons each) 1x
- Category: Salad Dressing
- Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
Ingredients
- 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Finely chop 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce and mince 1 garlic clove. Prepare about 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice.
- In a small bowl or jar, add 1/4 cup (60 ml) apple cider vinegar and 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard. Whisk or shake to combine thoroughly.
- Stir in 1 tablespoon honey and 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice.
- Add the chopped chipotle peppers, 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin, minced garlic, a pinch of salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Mix well.
- Gradually pour in 1/2 cup (120 ml) extra virgin olive oil while whisking vigorously to emulsify. Alternatively, add oil to jar, seal tightly, and shake until combined and creamy.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or honey if desired. If too thick, whisk in a teaspoon of water to loosen.
- Let the vinaigrette rest for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Notes
Use quality chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for best flavor. For vegan version, substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar. Fresh lime juice is preferred over bottled for brightness. Let vinaigrette rest for at least 15 minutes before serving. Shake or whisk before use if separated. Can be made a day ahead for deeper flavor. If too thick after refrigeration, stir in warm water or extra lime juice to loosen.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons (30 ml
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 100
- Fat: 14
- Saturated Fat: 2
- Carbohydrates: 3
- Fiber: 0.5
- Protein: 0.2
Keywords: chipotle vinaigrette, salad dressing, chipotle peppers, smoky dressing, zesty vinaigrette, copycat recipe, easy dressing, healthy dressing