Cilantro Dressing
A vibrant cilantro dressing with a tangy and spicy kick, perfect for salads, grilled vegetables, or as a zesty marinade to enhance various dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place all ingredients in a blender.
- Blend until smooth.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a tablespoon of Greek yogurt or avocado. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the jalapeno or substitute it with a bell pepper. This dressing can also be enhanced with a squeeze of lime juice for brightness. Remember, the right balance of vinegar and oil is essential for flavor, so taste as you go.
Serving Suggestions
This cilantro dressing is perfect drizzled over salads, grilled vegetables, or tacos. It pairs beautifully with Tropical Fruit Salsa for a refreshing contrast. Try using it as a marinade for chicken or fish, or as a zesty dip for fresh veggies. It can also elevate dishes like Tortilla Soup Salad and Mexican recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cilantro dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. The flavors will meld and develop over time. If the dressing thickens, simply whisk in a little water or extra oil to reach your desired consistency before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cilantro Dressing contains roughly 35 calories, with 1g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (15% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2920mg per serving (127% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dressing ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dressing a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. The flavors will deepen and become even more delicious. Just remember to give it a good shake or stir before using, as the ingredients may separate.
What can I use instead of red wine vinegar?
If you don't have red wine vinegar on hand, you can substitute it with apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar. Each will give a slightly different flavor profile but will still work well in this dressing. Adjust the amount based on your taste preference.
Is this dressing suitable for vegan diets?
Yes, this cilantro dressing is completely vegan-friendly. It contains no animal products, making it a great choice for those following vegan recipes. Enjoy it on salads, grain bowls, or as a dip without any worries about dietary restrictions.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).