Did you know homemade strawberry vinaigrette has up to 7 times more vitamin C than store-bought? Making your own is not just tastier, but also healthier. I’m excited to share my favorite fruit vinaigrette recipe. It’s full of fresh strawberry flavor and ready in just 5 minutes!
This berry vinaigrette recipe makes 1 cup of zesty goodness, perfect for summer salads. With just 6 simple ingredients, including salt and pepper, you’ll make a vibrant dressing. Plus, each tablespoon has only 50 calories, making it guilt-free for your meals.
Ready to make your salads better? Let’s explore this easy strawberry vinaigrette recipe. Trust me, once you try this homemade version, you’ll never go back to store-bought again!
Why Make Homemade Strawberry Vinaigrette
Making your own strawberry salad dressing at home changes your meals. You’ll enjoy the flavor and know what’s in your food. Let’s see why homemade strawberry vinaigrette is worth it.
Superior Fresh Flavor
Homemade strawberry purée vinaigrette is a flavor explosion. Fresh strawberries make a better emulsion than store-bought. The natural sweetness and tanginess make salads irresistible.
Cost-Effective Alternative
Homemade strawberry salad dressing saves money. With a few ingredients, you can make lots. You can also adjust it to your liking, so nothing is wasted.
Control Over Ingredients
When you make strawberry vinaigrette at home, you control what’s in it. Choose organic strawberries and quality oils. You can also adjust the sweetness. This makes a healthier, personalized dressing.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 92 kcal |
| Total Fat | 7 g |
| Carbohydrates | 7 g |
| Sugar | 5 g |
| Protein | 0.1 g |
By making your own strawberry vinaigrette, you’re not just making a tasty dressing. You’re adding a fresh, cost-effective, and personalized nutrient-rich addition to your meals. Try it and see the difference!
Essential Ingredients for Strawberry Vinaigrette Recipe
Making a tasty strawberry vinaigrette is easy with the right stuff. Let’s look at the key parts that make this dressing great for salads.
Fresh vs Frozen Strawberries
Fresh strawberries give a bright flavor, but frozen ones are good too. If using frozen, thaw them first. You’ll need 1-1/2 cups of strawberries for this recipe. They add sweetness and a lovely pink color.
Oil and Vinegar Base Options
The base of your strawberry vinaigrette is 1/2 cup light olive oil and 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar. This mix gives a smooth, tangy taste. You can also use apple cider vinegar for a different flavor.
Sweeteners and Seasonings
To make your strawberry balsamic vinaigrette perfect, add 2 tablespoons of honey for sweetness. Season with 1/2 teaspoon each of salt and cracked pepper. For a bit more zest, add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. You can also include 1 tablespoon of fresh basil leaves for a herbal touch.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Strawberries | 1-1/2 cups |
| Light Olive Oil | 1/2 cup |
| Balsamic Vinegar | 1/4 cup |
| Honey | 2 tablespoons |
| Lemon Juice | 1 tablespoon |
This recipe makes 8 servings. Each serving has 157 calories, 14g of fat, and 9g of carbs. It takes just 10 minutes to blend. Enjoy your homemade strawberry vinaigrette for up to 2 weeks in the fridge.
Step-by-Step Preparation Method
Let’s make this tasty strawberry vinaigrette! It’s easy and ready in just 5 minutes. You’ll get about 1 cup of dressing, perfect for your daily salad!
Blending Instructions
Begin by adding 1 cup of frozen strawberries to your blender. Then, pour in 1/4 cup each of lemon juice and olive oil. Add 1 tablespoon of maple syrup or 1 teaspoon of monkfruit sweetener for sweetness. Blend until it’s smooth, adding liquids slowly to mix well.
Consistency Adjustments
If it’s too thick, add a bit more olive oil or lemon juice. For a thinner dressing, blend in a tablespoon of water. Taste and adjust the sweetness or acidity as you like. The flavors will get better in the fridge.
Storage Tips
Pour your strawberry vinaigrette into an airtight container. It stays fresh in the fridge for up to 5 days. Shake well before using. This recipe makes enough for about 8 servings, with each 2-tablespoon serving having only 91 calories.
Try this versatile dressing on a salad with romaine, spinach, red onion, fresh strawberries, and avocado. It’s a sweet and tangy mix that will make your greens shine!
Perfect Pairings and Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve made your homemade strawberry vinaigrette, let’s find some tasty ways to use it. This dressing is versatile and can make many dishes better than just salads.
Green Salad Combinations
Make a refreshing summer salad by mixing greens with your strawberry vinaigrette. Add sliced strawberries, crumbled feta cheese, and a bit of salt and pepper. For extra crunch, toss in some toasted almonds or walnuts.
Fruit Salad Applications
Make your fruit salad tangy. Drizzle the vinaigrette over a mix of fresh berries, melon, and grapes. Add a dollop of sour cream for richness. This mix is great for brunch or as a light dessert.
Protein Marinade Uses
Use the vinaigrette as a marinade for grilled chicken or pork. The acidity tenderizes the meat and adds fruity flavor. Brush extra dressing on during cooking for a glossy finish.
| Dish | Ingredients | Pairing Suggestion |
|---|---|---|
| Summer Green Salad | Mixed greens, sliced strawberries, feta cheese, almonds | Drizzle with strawberry vinaigrette |
| Berry Fruit Salad | Assorted berries, melon, grapes, sour cream | Lightly toss with vinaigrette |
| Grilled Chicken | Chicken breast, salt and pepper | Marinate in vinaigrette for 30 minutes before grilling |
With these ideas, your homemade strawberry vinaigrette will outshine any store bought version. Its fresh flavor goes well with many dishes, making your meals more exciting and delicious.
Tips for Customizing Your Vinaigrette
Making your own strawberry vinaigrette lets you explore new flavors. With a few simple changes, you can tailor the dressing to your liking. Let’s dive into some easy ways to make this vinaigrette recipe your own!
Start by adjusting the sweetness. If your strawberries aren’t ripe, add a bit more honey or maple syrup. For a less sweet option, try stevia. The ripeness of your strawberries will impact the taste.
Then, try different vinegars. Balsamic vinegar is great with strawberries, but apple cider vinegar adds a tangy twist. White wine vinegar offers a milder taste. The vinegar you pick can change the vinaigrette’s flavor a lot.
- Add herbs: Fresh basil or mint can complement the strawberry flavor
- Spice it up: A pinch of black pepper or chili flakes can add depth
- Boost nutrition: Mix in chia seeds or ground flaxseed for added health benefits
Think about texture too. For a smooth vinaigrette, blend it longer. For a chunkier version, pulse the ingredients briefly. Adding strawberry jam can make it thicker and more flavorful.
The best part of making homemade vinaigrette is customizing it. Adjust the oil, vinegar, and strawberry amounts until it’s just right. With these tips, you’ll have a strawberry vinaigrette that’s all your own!
Conclusion
Making your own strawberry vinaigrette is a big win for your salad game. It mixes the sweetness of strawberries with tangy vinegar. This creates a flavor explosion that makes any dish better. Plus, it’s only 198 calories per serving and full of nutrients, making it a better choice than store-bought.
This strawberry vinaigrette is super versatile. Try it on a salad with roasted butternut squash, pecans, and feta for a tasty meal. Or use it to marinate grilled chicken for a fruity twist. The options are endless!
The secret to a great strawberry vinaigrette is finding the right balance of flavors. Add a bit of agave nectar or honey to sweeten it. And don’t forget to season with salt and pepper. Making it at home saves money and lets you control what’s in your food. So, get those fresh strawberries ready and start blending. Your taste buds will love you for it!
FAQ – Strawberry Vinaigrette
Can I use frozen strawberries for this vinaigrette?
Yes, you can! Frozen strawberries are a good substitute for fresh ones. Just thaw them first. The taste might not be as strong, but it will be tasty.
How long does homemade strawberry vinaigrette last?
Your homemade vinaigrette will keep for 5-7 days in the fridge. Shake it well before using, as it might separate.
Can I substitute the oil or vinegar in this recipe?
Sure! You can try different oils and vinegars to change the flavor. Avocado oil and balsamic vinegar are good options.
Is this strawberry vinaigrette recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, it’s vegan-friendly. Just use maple syrup or agave nectar instead of honey.
Can I make this vinaigrette without added sugar?
Definitely! Ripe strawberries are sweet enough. Taste it first and add sugar if needed.
What’s the best way to emulsify the vinaigrette?
Use a blender or food processor for a smooth vinaigrette. If not, shake it well in a jar.
Can I use this strawberry vinaigrette as a marinade?
Absolutely! It’s great for marinating chicken, pork, or tofu. It tenderizes and adds flavor.
How can I make my strawberry vinaigrette spicy?
Add a bit of minced jalapeño or red pepper flakes. Start small and adjust to taste.
Can I make a larger batch of this vinaigrette?
Sure! Double or triple the recipe. Just make sure your blender can handle it and adjust the seasoning.
What’s the best way to use leftover strawberry vinaigrette?
Use it as a dip for fruit, on grilled veggies, or as a pizza sauce. It’s great on a strawberry and goat cheese flatbread.
Delicious Strawberry Vinaigrette Recipe
Ingredients
- Strawberries – 1-1/2 cups
- Light Olive Oil – 1/2 cup
- Balsamic Vinegar – 1/4 cup
- Honey – 2 tablespoons
- Lemon Juice – 1 tablespoon
- Salt – 1/2 teaspoon
- Cracked Black Pepper – 1/2 teaspoon
Instructions
- Begin by adding 1 cup of frozen strawberries to your blender.
- Pour in 1/4 cup each of lemon juice and olive oil.
- Add 1 tablespoon of maple syrup or 1 teaspoon of monkfruit sweetener for sweetness.
- Blend until smooth, adding liquids slowly to mix well.
- If too thick, add more olive oil or lemon juice.
- For a thinner dressing, blend in a tablespoon of water.
- Taste and adjust sweetness or acidity as needed.
- Pour into an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Notes
- Fresh strawberries give a bright flavor, but frozen ones work too. If using frozen, thaw them first.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Shake well before using as separation may occur.
- Try using apple cider vinegar instead of balsamic for a tangier taste.
- For a herbal touch, add 1 tablespoon of fresh basil leaves.
- This vinaigrette pairs perfectly with romaine, spinach, red onion, fresh strawberries, and avocado.
