why make this recipe
Homemade cranberry vinaigrette is a fantastic addition to salads and dishes. It’s easy to make and brings a sweet and tangy flavor. Unlike store-bought dressings, making your own allows you to control the ingredients and adjust the sweetness and acidity to your liking. Plus, cranberries are packed with nutrients, making this a healthy choice for your meals.
how to make Homemade Cranberry Vinaigrette
Ingredients :
- 1 cup Fresh or Frozen Cranberries (If using frozen, thaw slightly first.)
- 2 tablespoons Honey or Maple Syrup (Provides natural sweetness.)
- 1/3 cup Apple Cider Vinegar (Adds acidity and brightness.)
- 1/2 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil (Provides richness and helps emulsify.)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard (Acts as an emulsifier.)
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt (To taste.)
- to taste Freshly Cracked Pepper (To taste.)
Directions :
- Prepare the cranberries by rinsing fresh ones or thawing frozen ones.
- In a saucepan, combine cranberries with 1/4 cup of water and simmer for about 10 minutes until they burst.
- Strain the cranberry mixture to extract about 1/2 cup of cranberry juice.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cranberry juice and honey or maple syrup.
- Add apple cider vinegar and Dijon mustard, whisking until combined.
- Slowly drizzle in olive oil while whisking to emulsify the vinaigrette.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting sweetness or acidity as desired.
- Transfer to a glass jar, seal, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Shake well before serving over salads, grilled vegetables, or meats.
how to serve Homemade Cranberry Vinaigrette
This vinaigrette is perfect for drizzling over a fresh salad, especially those with mixed greens, nuts, or cheese. It also works great on grilled vegetables or drizzled over meats to add a pop of flavor. Use it as a dip for bread or drizzle over roasted potatoes for an extra zing.
how to store Homemade Cranberry Vinaigrette
Storing cranberry vinaigrette is simple. Keep it in a glass jar with a tight lid in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for up to a week. Just make sure to shake it well before each use, as the ingredients may separate while stored.
tips to make Homemade Cranberry Vinaigrette
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more honey or maple syrup if desired.
- Experiment with adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for added flavor.
- If you like a smoother texture, you can blend the ingredients instead of whisking by hand.
variation
You can try using different types of vinegar, such as balsamic or red wine vinegar, to change the taste. Additionally, for a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
FAQs
Can I use dried cranberries?
No, dried cranberries won’t work for this recipe as they do not provide the necessary juice required for the vinaigrette.
Is this vinaigrette gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients used are gluten-free, making it safe for gluten-sensitive individuals.
Can this be made in advance?
Absolutely! You can make it a few days ahead of serving. Just ensure you store it properly in the refrigerator.
Homemade Cranberry Vinaigrette
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 1 cup
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
A delicious sweet and tangy vinaigrette made with fresh or frozen cranberries, perfect for salads and grilled dishes.
Ingredients
- 1 cup Fresh or Frozen Cranberries (if using frozen, thaw slightly first)
- 2 tablespoons Honey or Maple Syrup
- 1/3 cup Apple Cider Vinegar
- 1/2 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt
- Freshly Cracked Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse fresh cranberries or thaw frozen ones.
- In a saucepan, combine cranberries with 1/4 cup of water and simmer for about 10 minutes until they burst.
- Strain the cranberry mixture to extract about 1/2 cup of cranberry juice.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cranberry juice and honey or maple syrup.
- Add apple cider vinegar and Dijon mustard, whisking until combined.
- Slowly drizzle in olive oil while whisking to emulsify the vinaigrette.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting sweetness or acidity as desired.
- Transfer to a glass jar, seal, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Shake well before serving over salads, grilled vegetables, or meats.
Notes
Adjust sweetness by adding more honey or maple syrup. Experiment with fresh herbs for added flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American