Chipotle Vinaigrette Salad Dressing Recipe

Introduction

This Chipotle Vinaigrette Salad Dressing is a smoky, tangy, and slightly sweet addition to your salads. Made with chipotles in adobo, it delivers a mild heat balanced by honey and lime for a vibrant flavor boost.

A white bowl filled with a colorful layered salad is shown on a white marbled surface. The bottom layer consists of green leafy lettuce spread evenly around the bowl. On top of the lettuce are bright red diced tomatoes positioned to one side, next to a portion of cooked quinoa with light yellow and some dark grains mixed in. Nearby are black beans forming a dark, glossy patch. Grilled chicken pieces with a golden brown, slightly charred texture are placed near the center. Sautéed green and red bell peppers add a touch of softness and vibrant color around the chicken. Above the bowl, an orange sauce is being poured from a clear glass container with the sauce mid-air, thick and smooth, falling directly onto the grilled chicken. A fork rests in the quinoa section, and a lime wedge sits on the white marbled surface beside the bowl. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

  • 1 cup Olive oil
  • 1/2 cup Red vinegar
  • 3 Tablespoons Honey
  • 1 teaspoon Dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon Cumin
  • 1 teaspoon Black pepper
  • 2 Chipotles in adobo sauce
  • 3 Garlic cloves
  • 1 Lime, juiced

Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a blender, combine all ingredients except for the olive oil.
  2. Step 2: Blend for 10 to 20 seconds until the ingredients are well mixed.
  3. Step 3: Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while blending, then continue blending for another 20 seconds to emulsify the dressing.
  4. Step 4: Pour the dressing into an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Tips & Variations

  • Adjust the number of chipotles to your heat preference—use one for a milder taste or add more for extra spice.
  • For a smokier flavor, try adding a pinch of smoked paprika.
  • Swap honey for maple syrup for a different sweetness profile, especially if you want a vegan option.
  • Use fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for added freshness right before serving.

Storage

Store the vinaigrette in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Shake or stir well before each use, as the ingredients may separate when chilled. This dressing is best used fresh but can keep its vibrant flavor within the storage time.

How to Serve

A small clear glass jar filled with bright orange sauce sits in front of a white marbled surface. A spoon with some sauce drips down into the jar, held by a woman's hand at the top left corner. In the blurry background, there is a white bowl filled with black beans, chopped tomatoes, and some sliced chicken. There is also a small white bowl with chopped onions visible on the left and a lime wedge on the left bottom corner of the frame. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of vinegar?

Yes, you can substitute red vinegar with apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar. Each will slightly change the flavor, but all work well in this recipe.

Is this dressing suitable for salads beyond greens?

Absolutely! This chipotle vinaigrette pairs wonderfully with grain bowls, roasted vegetables, and even as a marinade for grilled chicken or shrimp.

Print

Chipotle Vinaigrette Salad Dressing Recipe

This Chipotle Vinaigrette Salad Dressing is a smoky, tangy, and slightly sweet dressing made with chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, olive oil, red vinegar, honey, and a blend of spices. Perfect for adding a flavorful kick to salads, grilled vegetables, or roasted meats.

  • Author: Nora
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 5 minutes
  • Yield: About 1 1/2 cups 1x
  • Category: Salad Dressing
  • Method: Blending
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients

  • 1 cup Olive oil
  • 1/2 cup Red vinegar
  • 3 Tablespoons Honey
  • 1 teaspoon Dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon Cumin
  • 1 teaspoon Black pepper
  • 2 Chipotles in adobo sauce
  • 3 Garlic cloves
  • 1 Lime, juiced

Instructions

  1. Prepare Ingredients: Gather all the ingredients to ensure a smooth blending process and measure them accurately.
  2. Combine Ingredients Except Olive Oil: In a blender, add the red vinegar, honey, dried oregano, kosher salt, cumin, black pepper, chipotles in adobo sauce, garlic cloves, and lime juice.
  3. Blend Initial Mixture: Blend the mixture for 10 to 20 seconds until all ingredients are well combined and slightly smooth.
  4. Incorporate Olive Oil: Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while the blender is running to emulsify the dressing, continuing to blend for an additional 20 seconds until fully combined and smooth.
  5. Store the Dressing: Transfer the vinaigrette to an airtight container and refrigerate. Use within 5 days for optimal freshness and flavor.

Notes

  • Adjust the number of chipotles for spiciness preferences.
  • Shake or stir well before each use as separation may occur.
  • This dressing pairs exceptionally well with green salads, grilled chicken, or roasted vegetables.
  • Store in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before using for better flavor and texture.

Keywords: Chipotle dressing, vinaigrette, salad dressing, smoky dressing, homemade dressing, chipotle vinaigrette, spicy salad dressing

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