Strawberry Salad Dressing

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This strawberry salad dressing is a delightful twist on the usual vinaigrette. The natural sweetness of the strawberries pairs beautifully with the tang of the orange juice and the richness of olive oil. The addition of red onion brings a mild, savory flavor, while the poppy seeds give it an extra crunch. It’s light, refreshing, and pairs perfectly with fresh greens or fruit salads. Whether you’re serving a summer picnic or just adding a pop of flavor to your everyday salads, this dressing is sure to impress!

Ingredients

• 2 cups halved fresh strawberries
• 1/3 cup orange juice
• 1/4 red onion
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 tablespoons honey
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 1 tablespoon poppy seeds

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a blender or food processor, combine the halved strawberries, orange juice, red onion, salt, and honey. Blend until smooth.
2. With the blender running, slowly add the olive oil until the dressing is well combined and emulsified.
3. Stir in the poppy seeds by hand or pulse briefly to incorporate.
4. Taste and adjust the sweetness or acidity by adding more honey or orange juice as desired.
5. Pour the dressing into a jar or container and refrigerate until ready to use.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 1 cup of dressing, enough to serve 4-6 people. The prep time is about 10 minutes, and it can be refrigerated for up to a week.

Variations

• Add herbs: Fresh basil, mint, or cilantro can be added to give the dressing a more herbaceous note.
• Use different sweeteners: Instead of honey, you could use agave syrup, maple syrup, or even stevia for a sugar-free alternative.
• Add a little spice: For a kick, a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes could be a fun addition.

Storage/Reheating

Store the strawberry dressing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5-7 days. There’s no need to reheat, as it’s meant to be served cold. If the dressing separates over time, simply shake or stir before using.

FAQs

How long will this strawberry salad dressing last?

It will last for about 5-7 days in the refrigerator.

Can I use frozen strawberries for this dressing?

Yes, frozen strawberries can work in a pinch. Just make sure to thaw them before blending.

Can I use a different type of oil?

Yes, you can substitute olive oil with avocado oil or another mild oil if desired.

Is this dressing dairy-free?

Yes, this strawberry salad dressing is completely dairy-free.

How can I make this dressing sweeter?

You can add extra honey or any sweetener of your choice to achieve the desired sweetness.

Can I make this dressing ahead of time?

Yes, this dressing can be made a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

Can I use a different fruit in place of strawberries?

Yes, you can experiment with other berries, such as raspberries or blueberries, to create a similar fruit-based dressing.

How can I thicken this dressing?

If you’d like a thicker dressing, you can reduce the amount of orange juice or add a little bit of Greek yogurt or mayonnaise for a creamier texture.

Is this dressing good for grilled chicken salads?

Absolutely! This strawberry dressing pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken and adds a burst of flavor to any salad.

Can I use this dressing on fruit salads?

Yes, this dressing is fantastic on fruit salads, especially with mixed berries or citrus fruits.

Conclusion

This strawberry salad dressing is a quick, flavorful addition to any salad or even as a dip for fresh fruit. Its sweet and tangy profile brings a refreshing twist, perfect for summer or any time of the year. With its simple ingredients and versatility, this homemade dressing will soon become a favorite in your kitchen.

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