This Honey Lime Vinaigrette is the perfect way to elevate any dish with a burst of bright, fresh flavor. It comes together in just minutes with simple pantry ingredients, making it an easy go-to for busy weeknights or entertaining. Once you try this homemade honey lime vinaigrette, you may never reach for store-bought dressing again!
Years ago, I had two realizations: first, that most store-bought salad dressings are loaded with unnecessary preservatives and artificial flavors; and second, that making a truly delicious dressing at home is incredibly simple.
This Honey Lime Vinaigrette has become one of my favorites, especially during spring and summer when I want something light, bright, and full of fresh flavor. The combination of honey and lime strikes the perfect sweet-tart balance, and with just a few quality ingredients, like a good light olive oil and fresh limes, you can whip up a dressing that's far healthier, more flavorful, and more versatile than anything from a bottle.
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Equipment
I love shaking up my salad dressings in mason jars. Not only can you use them to make the dressing, but for storing as well!
I love these reusable mason jar lids for storing food and dressings alike.
Ingredients & Substitutions
- Olive oil: Go for a good quality extra virgin olive oil. The quality of the oil really makes a difference in flavor.
- Fresh lime juice and zest: It may be tempting to go for the jarred lime juice but I assure you fresh is best in this dressing.
- Honey: You can substitute with maple syrup if preferred.
- Red wine vinegar: You can substitute with white wine vinegar if desired.
- Cumin (optional): I like adding a zing of cumin to this recipe but feel free to omit if you prefer.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): I like the kick these give but again, omit if heat is not your thing.
- Salt & pepper
Frequently Asked Questions
Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, honey lime vinaigrette will keep for about 1 week. Give it a good shake or stir before each use, as natural separation may occur.
Fresh lime juice is highly recommended for the best flavor. Bottled lime juice can work in a pinch, but it often has a slightly bitter or less vibrant taste.
Natural separation is normal since this dressing doesn't contain emulsifiers. Just give it a quick shake or whisk before serving to blend everything back together.
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Made this Honey Lime Vinaigrette recipe? Let me know what you think in the comments!
Recipe
Honey Lime Vinaigrette
Equipment
- Mason jar with lid or bowl with a whisk
Ingredients
- ¼ cup fresh lime juice
- ½ teaspoon lime zest
- 2 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- ½ cup olive oil good quality
- ¼ teaspoon cumin optional
- pinch of red pepper flakes
- pinch of salt & pepper
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a mason jar with a lid (or small mixing bowl with a whisk). Screw the lid on tight and shake vigorously for about 30 seconds until well combined.*Alternatively you can whisk the ingredients together until emulsified.*Serve and enjoy!
Charah
Great recipe, I haven't this yet but will surely try soon! Thanks for sharing
Kelly
Liked this a lot! Will make again. The cumin added an interesting depth. Thank you for posting!
jamjarkitchen
Hi Kelly - Glad you enjoyed it!
Sarah
Sooo good. Just the recipe I needed for a great base for my sweeter salads.
I added a bit of ground mustard and poppy seeds for my own touch as well as the suggested cilantro and red pepper flakes. I also didn’t have red wine vinegar, but apple cider vinegar did the trick.
jamjarkitchen
Hi Sarah - So glad you liked it!
Ada
I made this today and it is so refreshing and good!! Thank you for sharing!!! 🙂
jamjarkitchen
Thanks Ada! So glad you enjoyed it!
Jen
I just found this recipe and decided to try yours since it is simple. I halved the recipe and omitted the cumin because I wanted the lime flavor to stand out and it did. I put it on my black bean, corn, tomato, rice dish and it was delicious! I added mashed avocado too. I will be making this dressing often. Thank you for sharing!
jamjarkitchen
Hi Jen - That sounds delicious, especially with the black beans, corn, and avocado! So glad you enjoyed the vinaigrette and will be making it again. Thanks for sharing!