Cilantro salad dressing is a condiment that you cannot miss in the kitchen. Its fresh, vibrant flavors can transform ordinary meals into extraordinary culinary experiences.
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What is cilantro salad dressing?
Cilantro salad dressing is a zesty, herb-infused condiment that combines fresh cilantro leaves and tangy citrus. It’s one of the most popular salad dressings in kitchens worldwide.
- Cilantro imparts a distinctive, fresh flavor to the dressing. It creates a complex taste profile that dances between citrusy and slightly peppery. When I first experimented with cilantro in dressings, I was struck by its ability to transform a simple mixture into something truly extraordinary.
- Lime juice enhances cilantro dressing by adding a bright acidity.
- Olive oil serves as the smooth, luxurious base in cilantro dressing. Its mild flavor makes the cilantro and lime shine while providing a rich mouthfeel.
- Vinegar contributes additional tang and depth to the dressing. While lime provides the primary acidity, a splash of vinegar can round out the flavors. I often experiment with different types, from apple cider to white balsamic, each lending its unique character to the dressing.
- Garlic complements cilantro in dressing by adding a pungent, savory note.
Cilantro Salad Dressing Recipe
This fresh, herbaceous dressing combines the bright flavors of cilantro with tangy lime juice and creamy avocado for a perfect balance of taste and texture. I will make 3 versions of this salad dressing. Here is how to make the cilantro dressing:
Basic cilantro lime salad dressing
This classic version combines the bold flavors of fresh cilantro and tangy lime juice, creating a perfect balance of herbaceous notes and citrusy zing.
Basic Cilantro Salad Dressing
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves packed
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- 1 small garlic clove
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a food processor or blender.
- Pulse until smooth, scraping down the sides as needed.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as desired.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
If these ingredients are not available, you can use substitutions. Some effective swaps you can choose include:
- Parsley for cilantro (for those who dislike cilantro’s taste)
- Lemon for lime juice
- Apple cider vinegar for white vinegar
- Avocado oil for olive oil
These substitutions can help tailor the dressing to individual tastes while maintaining its overall character.
Creamy cilantro lime salad dressing
For a richer, creamier version, you can try this variation:
Ingredients:
- Basic cilantro vinaigrette (recipe above)
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
- Prepare the basic cilantro vinaigrette.
- Whisk in Greek yogurt and honey until smooth.
- Adjust consistency with water if needed.
Note:
Sweeteners balance the acidity in cilantro dressing. While honey is a popular choice, you can experiment with various alternatives:
- Agave nectar for a vegan option
- Maple syrup for a distinct flavor
- Stevia for a low-calorie alternative (keto)
To create a vegan version, I’ve successfully used one of these ingredients to create the creaminess, instead of Greek yogurt:
- Cashew cream for richness
- Avocado for creaminess
- Nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor
Spicy cilantro-lime dressing
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, this spicy version kicks things up a notch:
Ingredients:
- Basic cilantro vinaigrette (recipe above)
- 1 jalapeno, seeded and chopped
- Zest of 1 lime
Instructions:
- Add jalapeno and lime zest to the basic vinaigrette ingredients.
- Blend until smooth.
- Adjust the spice level to taste.
Note:
Heat levels can be customized to suit individual preferences. For those who enjoy a spicier kick, I recommend:
- Adding more jalapeno or serrano peppers
- Incorporating a pinch of red pepper flakes
- Using a dash of hot sauce
Remember, it’s easier to add heat than to remove it, so start conservatively and adjust to taste.
How to use Cilantro Dressing
Cilantro dressing elevates a wide variety of salads, such as:
- Mexican-inspired salads with black beans and corn
- Asian-fusion slaws with cabbage and carrots
- Mediterranean grain salads featuring quinoa or couscous
The dressing can also be used as a marinade for proteins. The acidity in the dressing helps tenderize the proteins, while the oil carries the flavors deep into the flesh, resulting in succulent, flavorful dishes.
- Chicken breasts for grilling
- Shrimp for quick sautés
- Tofu for vegetarian stir-fries
Cilantro salad dressing works wonderfully as a dip for fresh vegetables and grains, providing a creamy and tangy option for snacking. Some of my favorite pairings include:
- Fresh spring rolls
- Crispy empanadas
- Grilled vegetable skewers
- Roasted sweet potatoes
- Grilled corn on the cob
- Steamed broccoli or cauliflower
- Quinoa or brown rice bowls
How to store cilantro dressing
Proper storage ensures optimal freshness and prevents unwanted odor absorption. In my experience, the best practices include:
- Using an airtight container
- Refrigerating immediately after preparation
- Keeping away from strong-smelling foods in the fridge
Cilantro dressing remains fresh for up to 5 days when properly stored. It should be:
- Aroma: Should remain bright and herbal
- Color: Vibrant green without browning
- Texture: Smooth without separation
If any of these aspects change significantly, you should prepare a fresh batch.
