Tomato And Ortega Vinaigrette
A vibrant, tangy vinaigrette with fresh tomatoes, peppers, and onions, perfect for salads or as a side dish, offering bold flavors and a hint of sweetness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pour boiling water over tomatoes and let stand a minute or two to loosen skins; then peel with a knife.
- Cut out cores and cut tomatoes into bite-sized pieces.
- Place the chopped tomatoes, Ortega peppers, and onion rings in a bowl.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, cider vinegar, a little sugar, salt, minced garlic, and pepper.
- Pour the vinaigrette over the tomato mixture and toss gently to combine.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more robust flavor, allow the vinaigrette to sit for at least 30 minutes before serving so the flavors meld. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or using fresh chili peppers instead of Ortega peppers. You can substitute the sugar with honey or agave syrup for a natural sweetener.
Serving Suggestions
This Tomato and Ortega Vinaigrette pairs beautifully with Sliced Tomatoes With Basil or can be served atop grilled meats for added flavor. It also complements lighter dishes like the Citrus And Mango Salad(Makes 2 To 4 Servings) or Pesto Vegetables. Serve it as a refreshing side at barbecues or picnics for a delightful contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover vinaigrette in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To enjoy it again, simply give it a good shake or stir before serving. If the tomatoes have released too much liquid, consider draining excess liquid before serving to maintain the vinaigrette's consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tomato And Ortega Vinaigrette contains roughly 159 calories, with 3g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (82% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1854mg per serving (81% 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 use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
While fresh tomatoes provide the best flavor and texture, you can use canned tomatoes in a pinch. Drain them well and adjust the seasoning, as canned tomatoes can be saltier. Keep in mind that the texture will be softer than fresh tomatoes.
Is this vinaigrette suitable for vegan diets?
Yes, this vinaigrette is entirely plant-based and perfect for vegan recipes. The ingredients used are all derived from plants, making it a great addition to any vegan meal or salad.
How can I make this vinaigrette spicier?
To add more heat, consider incorporating diced raw jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce into the vinaigrette. Alternatively, you can use spicier varieties of peppers or even a pinch of red pepper flakes to achieve your desired spice level.
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).