Raspberry Vinaigrette Salad Dressing

This raspberry vinaigrette salad dressing is tangy, sweet, and bright. Perfect for summer salads, marinades, and a great addition to the soups.

Raspberry Vinaigrette Salad Dressing

There’s something special about the arrival of raspberry season. I remember waiting all year for the warm summer months when the raspberries would ripen in the wild, ready to be picked. The memories of picking fresh raspberries from the wild still bring a smile to my face. I was lucky to have easy access to them in the forests near my home, so we didn’t need to buy raspberries from the store. 

One of my favorite ways to use raspberries was to make raspberry vinaigrette! Raspberry vinaigrette is especially perfect during the warmer months, when raspberries are in season and everything feels fresher. It’s the perfect dressing for summer salads, bringing out the best in your greens.

What I love most about raspberry vinaigrette is how easy it is to make. You get to enjoy the natural flavor of fresh raspberries, without any added sugars or preservatives from store-bought dressings. When you make it yourself, you control the ingredients and can adjust the sweetness to your liking. It’s a simple dressing with just the right balance of flavor, and it can be used in so many ways.

In this article, I’m excited to share this delightful dressing with you, a perfect balance of sweet, fruity goodness and zesty tang!

Why Make Raspberry Vinaigrette

Raspberry vinaigrette is one of those delightful homemade dressings that adds a burst of freshness to any meal. With its perfect balance of sweet and tangy, it’s a great way to brighten up your greens. 

What makes it even better is the fact that you can make it yourself with simple, fresh ingredients like ripe raspberries, balsamic vinegar, and extra virgin olive oil. I’ve always loved making this dressing, especially when raspberries are in season—there’s something special about picking the fresh berries and turning them into something that can elevate my meals. Store-bought dressings often contain artificial flavors, preservatives, and unhealthy oils like soybean oil, but when you make raspberry vinaigrette at home, you get the full, natural raspberry flavor and none of the unwanted extras.

Besides tasting amazing, raspberry vinaigrette has plenty of health benefits. Fresh raspberries are packed with antioxidants and vitamins, and when combined with olive oil, which is heart-healthy, you’re not only enhancing the flavor of your salad but also nourishing your body. It’s a dressing that both tastes good and feels good for you.

Another great thing about raspberry vinaigrette is its versatility. It’s not just for salads—it can also be used as a marinade for grilled vegetables or meats. Whatever you’re making; spinach salad, a fresh green salad, or even a raspberry salad, this vinaigrette can complement the flavors in so many ways. It’s an easy way to add a fruity twist to a variety of dishes.

Ingredients – What You Need to Make Raspberry Vinaigrette

To make your own raspberry vinaigrette, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients:

• Fresh raspberries: The star of the show, offering natural sweetness and vibrant color.
• Balsamic vinegar: Adds a tangy depth of flavor that balances the sweetness of the raspberries.
• Shallot: A mild onion flavor that enhances the overall taste without overpowering the fruit.
• Garlic: Adds a savory undertone to the dressing.
• Honey: For a touch of sweetness, which complements the tartness of the raspberries.
• Olive oil: Provides a smooth, rich texture and healthy fats.
• Dijon mustard: Helps emulsify the vinaigrette and adds a little tangy kick.
• Salt and pepper

How to Make Raspberry Vinaigrette

Making this raspberry vinaigrette couldn’t be easier. Here’s how to do it:

1. Combine the Ingredients: In a food processor or blender, add fresh raspberries, balsamic vinegar, shallot, garlic, and honey
2. Blend: Blend everything until smooth, making sure all the ingredients are fully mixed together.
3. Add Olive Oil: While the blender is running, slowly pour in the olive oil. This helps to create that smooth, creamy texture
4. Season: Taste your vinaigrette and add salt and pepper to your liking. It’s all about balancing the flavors.
5. Chill and Serve: Pop the vinaigrette in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This lets the flavors come together nicely. When you’re ready to use it, just shake or stir it well.

 

What to Serve With 

Raspberry vinaigrette is incredibly versatile and can bring out the best in many dishes. It’s perfect for salads, adding a fresh and fruity twist to your greens. A simple mix of arugula, spinach, or mixed greens is a great base, but you can take it to the next level by adding goat cheese, candied walnuts, and sliced fresh strawberries for a refreshing summer-inspired salad. The sweetness and tanginess of the vinaigrette balance with the rich, creamy goat cheese and crunchy walnuts.

You can also use raspberry vinaigrette as a marinade for grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus. The vinaigrette adds a burst of flavor that pairs with the smokiness from the grill. For a heartier dish, try it as a marinade for grilled chicken breasts or thighs. The vinaigrette helps tenderize the meat while infusing it with fruity, tangy goodness.

If you’re planning a cheese platter, raspberry vinaigrette can be a good addition. It pairs perfectly with creamy cheeses like goat cheese, brie, or feta cheese, complementing their textures and enhancing their flavors. The possibilities are endless, so don’t be afraid to get creative with how you use this versatile dressing!

Frequently Asked Questions – FAQ

Can I use frozen raspberries instead of fresh? 

Yes, you can! Frozen raspberries work just as well as fresh ones. Just be sure to thaw them first before blending.

How long will raspberry vinaigrette last? 

Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, this dressing should last about 1 week. Make sure to give it a good shake before using, as the ingredients may separate over time.

Can I make raspberry vinaigrette without balsamic vinegar?

If you don’t have balsamic vinegar, you can substitute it with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar for a slightly different flavor profile.

Can I adjust the sweetness? 

Absolutely! If you prefer a sweeter vinaigrette, feel free to add more honey or a little bit of maple syrup to taste. Or, if you like it tangier, you can lessen the honey.

Is raspberry vinaigrette vegan? 

Yes, this recipe is vegan as long as you use plant-based honey or an alternative like maple syrup.

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Did you make this recipe?

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