Zesty Orange Ginger Balsamic Dressing
Elevate your salads and marinades with this Zesty Orange Ginger Balsamic Dressing. Perfectly balancing the sweetness of mandarin oranges with the sharpness of balsamic vinegar and the warmth of fresh ginger, this versatile dressing enhances any dish. Drizzle it over a fresh baby spinach mix topped with succulent mandarin oranges and crispy bacon, garnished with delicate ribbons of fresh basil for a delightful meal. Not just a dressing, but a vibrant marinade for grilled salmon, chicken, or pork, this vinaigrette is a must-try for food enthusiasts looking to add a burst of flavor to their culinary adventures.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
balsamic vinegar
1/2 cup (none)
olive oil
1/4 cup (none)
orange ginger mixed spice
1 teaspoon (optional)
orange zest
1 teaspoon (optional)
ginger salt or coarse sea salt
1/2 teaspoon (coarse)
grated fresh ginger
1 teaspoon (grated)
fresh ground black pepper
to taste (none)
mandarin orange sections
3 (canned or fresh)
Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon (none)
tarragon
1/2 teaspoon (optional)
Instructions
1
In a bullet blender or food processor, combine the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, orange ginger mixed spice (if using), orange zest (if using), ginger salt or coarse sea salt, grated fresh ginger, freshly ground black pepper, mandarin orange sections, Dijon mustard, and tarragon (if using).
2
Blend all ingredients on high for 30 seconds to 1 minute until smooth and well incorporated.
3
Let the dressing sit for about 10 minutes at room temperature. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
4
Taste and adjust the seasoning as necessary before serving. Drizzle generously over your salad or use as a marinade.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Zesty Orange Ginger Balsamic Dressing?
It is a versatile dressing and marinade that balances the sweetness of mandarin oranges with the sharpness of balsamic vinegar and the warmth of fresh ginger.
How do I prepare this dressing?
Combine all ingredients in a bullet blender or food processor and blend on high for 30 seconds to 1 minute until smooth.
Should I let the dressing rest after blending?
Yes, let the dressing sit for about 10 minutes at room temperature to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
Can I use this dressing as a marinade?
Absolutely. It makes a vibrant marinade for grilled salmon, chicken, or pork.
What type of salad pairs best with this dressing?
It is delicious over a fresh baby spinach mix topped with mandarin oranges, crispy bacon, and fresh basil ribbons.
What are the primary liquid ingredients?
The dressing uses 1/2 cup of balsamic vinegar and 1/4 cup of olive oil.
Can I use fresh ginger?
Yes, the recipe specifically calls for 1 teaspoon of grated fresh ginger.
Is Dijon mustard required?
The recipe uses 1/2 teaspoon of Dijon mustard to help emulsify and flavor the dressing.
Can I use canned mandarin oranges?
Yes, you can use either canned or fresh mandarin orange sections.
How many mandarin orange sections are needed?
The recipe calls for 3 mandarin orange sections.
What if I do not have orange ginger mixed spice?
The orange ginger mixed spice is listed as an optional ingredient.
Is orange zest necessary?
Orange zest is optional but adds a boost of citrus flavor if used.
What kind of salt is recommended?
You can use either 1/2 teaspoon of ginger salt or coarse sea salt.
Is tarragon included in the recipe?
Yes, 1/2 teaspoon of tarragon is an optional ingredient to add herbal notes.
What equipment do I need to make this?
A bullet blender or a food processor is required to ensure the dressing is smooth and well incorporated.
Is this dressing considered healthy?
Yes, it is tagged as a healthy dressing option featuring fresh ginger and olive oil.
Does this dressing have Asian flavors?
Yes, the combination of ginger and mandarin orange gives it a flavor profile compatible with Asian-inspired dishes.
How much black pepper should I add?
Add freshly ground black pepper to your personal taste preference.
Can I adjust the seasoning?
Yes, it is recommended to taste and adjust the seasoning after the 10-minute resting period.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free, but always check your specific brand of balsamic vinegar and mustard.
Is this dressing vegan?
Yes, this dressing is plant-based and vegan-friendly.
What is the flavor profile of this vinaigrette?
It is zesty and sharp with a balance of citrus sweetness and warm ginger spice.
How much total dressing does this make?
Based on the ingredients, it makes approximately 3/4 to 1 cup of dressing.
Can I use a different oil?
While olive oil is recommended, you could substitute it with another neutral-flavored oil if needed.
Does the recipe use dried ginger?
The recipe calls for grated fresh ginger and optionally orange ginger spice or ginger salt, rather than standard dried ground ginger.
Can I skip the blender?
Blending is necessary to incorporate the mandarin orange sections and create a smooth consistency.
Is there added sugar?
There is no refined sugar added; the sweetness comes from the balsamic vinegar and mandarin oranges.
How long should I blend on high?
Blend for 30 seconds to 1 minute.
Can I use this on grilled chicken?
Yes, it is specifically noted as an excellent marinade for grilled chicken.
What is the texture of the finished dressing?
Once blended, the dressing should be smooth and well incorporated.