Chipotle Honey Vinaigrette: Sweet, Spicy, and Tangy

If you love the perfect blend of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors, Chipotle Honey Vinaigrette is for you. This combination keeps things interesting with each bite – a little sweet here, a subtle spice there – making every dish feel more special.

Chipotle honey vinaigrette recipe

Chipotle Honey Vinaigrette is a popular dressing known for its tangy, smoky, and slightly sweet flavor profile. The vinaigrette combines a variety of ingredients to create its distinctive taste.

The smoky kick from the chipotle peppers pairs beautifully with the rich sweetness of honey, balanced by a touch of tangy vinegar to bring everything together.

The honey vinaigrette chipotle represents a fusion of Mexican and American culinary traditions. Now, it has become the mainstream favorite, particularly after popular restaurant chains introduced their versions.

This is how to make the chipotle honey vinaigrette:

Chipotle honey vinaigrette

A sweet and smoky homemade vinaigrette that perfectly balances honey's natural sweetness with chipotle peppers' smoky heat. Ready in just 5 minutes, it's perfect for meal prep and stays fresh for up to 2 weeks.

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Prep Time 6 minutes mins

Course Condiment

Cuisine American, Mexican

Servings 6

Calories 85 kcal

Ingredients

  

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• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1-2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce adjust for spice level, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
• 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

 

• In a small mixing bowl or blender, combine all ingredients: olive oil, honey, apple cider vinegar, chipotle peppers, lime juice, Dijon mustard, and garlic powder.
• Blend or whisk until the mixture is smooth and emulsified.
• Taste and season with salt and pepper as desired.
• Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Shake well before each use.

Nutrition

Calories: 85kcal

Keyword chipotle honey vinaigrette, healthy dressing, homemade salad dressing, spicy recipe

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How to pair and serve

This honey chipotle vinaigrette is not only great for salads but also serves as a delicious topping for various dishes. The ideal consistency depends on the use:

• Salad Dressing: Should be pourable but coating
• Marinade: Can be slightly thinner
• Dipping Sauce: Should be thicker

1. Salad Dressing:

• Perfect for drizzling over mixed greens, roasted veggies, pasta salad, or grain-based salads like quinoa and farro.
• Pairs well with proteins like grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu in salad recipes.
• Toss with grilled vegetables to add a bold, spicy kick.

2. Marinades:

• Ideal for marinating chicken, beef, or pork before grilling or roasting.
• Add a delicious layer of flavor when brushed onto seafood during cooking.

3. Dips and Sauces:

• Blend with sour cream or Greek yogurt for a creamy dip, perfect for tacos, nachos, or burritos.
• Mix with mayonnaise for a zesty spread to elevate sandwiches.

Variations

1. Creamy Honey Chipotle Vinaigrette: For those who prefer a creamier texture:

• Add 1/2 cup sour cream, nonfat Greek yogurt, or dairy-free yogurt
• Work well on salads, tacos, and wraps

2. Spicy Chipotle Honey Vinaigrette:

• Add 1-2 teaspoons of hot sauce or 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard for extra heat.
•  Great for those who enjoy a kick in their dressings

3. Lightened-up Version:

• Substitute olive oil with 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce and reduce the oil to 1/4 cup.
• Use a sugar substitute or reduce the honey/maple syrup to 1 teaspoon.

4. Dietary Adaptations

• Vegan Version: Agave replaces honey
• Low Calorie Option: Light oil reduces calories