Plum Nectarine Vinaigrette
A vibrant, fruity vinaigrette blending the sweet-tart flavors of plums and nectarines with honey and mint, perfect for salads or as a fresh dressing for summer dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a heavy saucepan, place plums, nectarines, and vinegar. Cook about 10 minutes over medium heat.
- Cool the mixture in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.
- Add the fruit mixture, honey, salt, and white pepper to a food processor fitted with a steel blade.
- Blend for 20 to 30 seconds or until the mixture is smooth.
- Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while the motor is running.
- Process for an additional 15 to 20 seconds.
- Whisk in freshly minced mint and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice for acidity. If plums or nectarines are out of season, peaches or apricots can serve as great substitutes. For a spicier kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes can be added during blending. This vinaigrette is versatile enough to be used as a marinade for shish-kabobs or as a dressing for salads.
Serving Suggestions
This Plum Nectarine Vinaigrette pairs beautifully with fresh greens, grilled vegetables, or as a drizzle over roasted meats. It can also elevate a simple salad of mixed greens and goat cheese. For a Mediterranean twist, serve alongside rosemary potatoes and onions or as a dressing for a grain bowl. It complements seafood dishes exceptionally well, adding a fruity zing.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover vinaigrette in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. The flavors will meld and improve over time. Before serving, give it a good shake or stir, as separation may occur. Avoid reheating this dressing; it is best served cold or at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Plum Nectarine Vinaigrette contains roughly 303 calories, with 7g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1812mg per serving (79% 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 vinaigrette ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this vinaigrette up to a week in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors will deepen as it sits, making it even tastier when you're ready to use it.
What can I use this vinaigrette for besides salads?
This vinaigrette is incredibly versatile. It makes a fantastic marinade for grilled meats like chicken or pork. Additionally, it can be drizzled over roasted vegetables or used as a dipping sauce for bread. Try it with marinated tomatoes and mushrooms for a fresh appetizer.
Is this vinaigrette suitable for vegan diets?
Yes, this Plum Nectarine Vinaigrette is entirely vegan-friendly. The honey can be easily substituted with agave syrup or maple syrup for a completely plant-based version. It's perfect for drizzling over salads or grain bowls, making it a great addition to vegan recipes.
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).