Fresh and zesty Cilantro Lime Vinaigrette made with vibrant cilantro, tangy lime juice, honey, and extra virgin olive oil. This easy homemade salad dressing is perfect for green salads, tacos, grilled chicken, and roasted vegetables. Quick to prepare, naturally gluten-free, and packed with flavor, it’s a versatile healthy dressing recipe to brighten up any meal.

Ingredients

1 cup lightly packed fresh cilantro leaves, thick stems removed
¼ cup seasoned rice vinegar
¼ cup fresh lime juice (about 1½ to 2 limes)
1 tablespoon honey
½ teaspoon minced garlic
½ teaspoon sea salt
⅔ cup extra virgin olive oil

Instructions

In a food processor or blender, combine the cilantro, rice vinegar, lime juice, honey, garlic, and salt.
Blend until the mixture is smooth and evenly combined.
With the machine running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil through the feed tube. Continue blending until fully emulsified.
Transfer the vinaigrette to a mason jar or airtight container. Refrigerate until ready to use. Shake well before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cilantro Lime Vinaigrette is bright, zesty, and full of fresh herb flavor. It’s perfect for drizzling over salads, roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or tacos. Its balance of tangy lime, sweet honey, and aromatic cilantro makes it a versatile dressing that elevates any dish.

Tips

Use fresh, vibrant cilantro for the best flavor.
If your blender or food processor struggles to emulsify, pour the oil slowly in a thin stream.
Taste and adjust the honey or lime juice to your preference for sweetness or acidity.

Variations and Substitutions

Oil: Swap olive oil for avocado oil for a milder flavor.
Sweetener: Use maple syrup or agave instead of honey for a vegan option.
Herbs: Mix in fresh parsley or mint for a unique twist.
Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar can replace rice vinegar for a slightly different tang.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! This vinaigrette keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Can I freeze it?
Freezing is not recommended, as the texture may separate upon thawing.

Is it gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free.

Serving

Drizzle over green salads, grain bowls, grilled veggies, or proteins like chicken, shrimp, or tofu. It’s also delicious as a dipping sauce for tortilla chips or roasted vegetables.

Suggestions

Pair with a fresh mango or avocado salad for a tropical twist.
Use as a marinade for grilled chicken or shrimp to add flavor before cooking.
Mix with Greek yogurt for a creamy cilantro lime sauce.