Luscious Citrus Balsamic Vinaigrette
Elevate your salads with this delightful Luscious Citrus Balsamic Vinaigrette. Combining fragrant aged balsamic with the bright notes of fresh orange and tangy lemon juice, it creates a beautifully balanced dressing that dances between sweet and sour. The addition of fresh oregano infuses each bite with an aromatic herby flavor, while a hint of cayenne adds a subtle kick. Perfectly suited for peppery arugula or the crisp bitterness of radicchio, this vinaigrette will transform your greens into a gourmet dish. Not only is it delicious, but it also keeps well in the fridge for up to a week, making it a convenient staple for any salad lover.
N/A
Servings
360
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
balsamic vinegar
6 tablespoons (use a good quality well-aged balsamic)
fresh orange juice
1/2 cup (freshly squeezed)
fresh lemon juice
4 tablespoons (freshly squeezed)
lite olive oil
1/4 cup (none)
fresh oregano
1 tablespoon (chopped (or 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano))
cayenne
1 pinch (none)
salt
to taste (none)
pepper
to taste (none)
Instructions
1
In a medium bowl, combine the balsamic vinegar, fresh orange juice, and fresh lemon juice.
2
Whisk in the lite olive oil gradually, until the mixture is emulsified and well combined.
3
Add the fresh oregano (or dried oregano), cayenne, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk to incorporate all ingredients.
4
Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt and pepper if desired.
5
Transfer the vinaigrette to a jar with a tight-fitting lid and store in the refrigerator. Shake well before each use.
Nutrition Information
22g
Fat
39g
Carbs
1.5g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Luscious Citrus Balsamic Vinaigrette?
It is a gourmet salad dressing that combines aged balsamic vinegar with fresh orange and lemon juices for a balanced sweet and sour profile.
What are the primary ingredients?
The main ingredients include balsamic vinegar, fresh orange juice, fresh lemon juice, lite olive oil, fresh oregano, and a pinch of cayenne.
How long can I keep it in the refrigerator?
This vinaigrette keeps well in the refrigerator for up to one week.
How should the dressing be stored?
Store the vinaigrette in a jar with a tight-fitting lid to maintain freshness.
Why do I need to shake the jar?
You should shake the jar well before each use because the oil and juices may naturally separate over time.
What quality of balsamic vinegar is recommended?
The recipe suggests using a good quality, well-aged balsamic vinegar for the best aromatic flavor.
Can I substitute fresh oregano for dried?
Yes, if you do not have fresh oregano, you can substitute it with 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano.
Does this dressing have a spicy kick?
Yes, a pinch of cayenne is included to provide a subtle, aromatic heat.
Which greens pair best with this vinaigrette?
It is perfectly suited for peppery arugula or the crisp bitterness of radicchio.
What is the method for mixing the oil?
Whisk the lite olive oil into the vinegar and juice mixture gradually until it is fully emulsified.
Can regular olive oil be used?
The recipe calls for lite olive oil, which provides a milder taste, but regular olive oil can be used if you prefer a stronger olive flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, this vinaigrette uses plant-based ingredients and contains no animal products.
Does this dressing contain gluten?
Based on the ingredients listed, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
What are the total calories?
The total recipe contains approximately 360 calories.
How much fat does it contain?
The recipe contains 22g of fat, primarily from the olive oil.
What is the protein value?
This vinaigrette contains approximately 1.5g of protein.
Can I use store-bought orange juice?
While store-bought juice works, the recipe specifically recommends freshly squeezed orange juice for the brightest flavor.
Can I change the seasoning amounts?
Yes, you should taste the mixture and adjust the salt and pepper according to your personal preference.
How many carbs are in this recipe?
This recipe contains 39g of carbohydrates.
What is the goal of whisking the mixture?
Whisking ensures the ingredients are well combined and the oil is properly emulsified with the acidic juices.
Is this a good staple for salad lovers?
Yes, its ability to stay fresh for a week and its gourmet flavor make it a convenient household staple.
Is there any refined sugar in the ingredients?
No refined sugar is added; the sweetness comes from the aged balsamic and fresh orange juice.
Is it okay to use lime juice instead?
The recipe specifically calls for lemon juice for its tang, but lime juice can be used as a substitute if necessary.
What aromatic herb is featured?
Fresh oregano is the featured herb that infuses the vinaigrette with its distinct aromatic flavor.
What tools are required?
You only need a medium bowl, a whisk, and a jar with a tight lid for storage.
How would you describe the taste?
The taste is a beautiful balance between sweet and sour with bright citrus notes and an herby finish.
Can this be used as a marinade?
While designed as a dressing, its acidic and herbal components make it an excellent marinade for vegetables or light proteins.
What is the measurement for the orange juice?
You will need 1/2 cup of freshly squeezed orange juice.
What is the measurement for the lemon juice?
The recipe requires 4 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice.
Is this recipe considered easy to prepare?
Yes, it is a very simple process involving just whisking and combining ingredients.