If you're a fan of the menu at this American chain of restaurants which serves a variety of foods such as burgers, steaks, pasta, and seafood then you'll love this collection of copycat recipes.
Chipotle-Lime Vinaigrette
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Discover the perfect balance of zing and zest with this chipotle-lime vinaigrette. It's a flavorful little number that promises to breathe new life into your everyday meals.
serves/makes:
ready in:
under 30 minutes
under 30 minutes
5 reviews
ingredients
1/2 cup olive oil
1/4 cup fresh lime juice
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1 tablespoon minced chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
2 teaspoons ground cumin
salt and black pepper to taste
directions
Combine all the ingredients in a bowl and whisk until combined.
Use immediately or refrigerate in an airtight container until ready to use. Whisk again before using.
recipe tips
For a thicker vinaigrette, use less olive oil or add a small amount of mustard.
Experiment with the ratio of lime juice to oil to find your desired level of tanginess.
Adding a pinch of sugar or honey can balance the acidity of the lime juice if desired.
Use fresh lime zest in addition to the juice for extra citrus flavor.
Try adding other spices like smoked paprika or cayenne.
Adjust the salt and pepper after chilling to account for any flavor changes.
Store the vinaigrette in a jar with a tight lid for easy shaking before use.
Use this vinaigrette as a marinade for seafood before grilling.
Whisk vigorously or use a blender for a more emulsified vinaigrette.
Use a microplane to finely grate garlic for a smoother texture in the vinaigrette.
common recipe questions
Can I use bottled lime juice instead of fresh lime juice?
While you can use bottled lime juice as a substitute, fresh lime juice will offer a brighter, more vibrant flavor. Fresh ingredients tend to improve the overall taste of the vinaigrette.
How can I adjust the heat level of the vinaigrette?
To decrease the heat, use fewer chipotle peppers or omit them entirely. For extra spice, consider adding more chipotle or adding jalapeno or hot sauce.
Can I substitute another oil for olive oil?
You can substitute other oils, such as avocado oil or a neutral oil like canola or vegetable oil, though this will alter the flavor. Olive oil contributes a distinct taste that complements the lime and chipotle.
What other herbs can I use besides cilantro?
You can use parsley, basil, or green onions if you're not a fan of cilantro. Each will give a different flavor to the dressing.
How long can I store the vinaigrette?
The vinaigrette can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. The flavors may intensify over time. Make sure to mix it well before serving.
Can I make the vinaigrette in advance?
Yes, making the vinaigrette in advance is a great idea. It allows the flavors to meld together. Just be sure to give it a good whisk before using.
What can I use the vinaigrette on besides salads?
This vinaigrette is versatile; you can use it as a marinade for chicken, fish, or vegetables; as a dipping sauce for appetizers; or drizzled over tacos or grain bowls.
How can I make the vinaigrette creamier?
For a creamier texture, you can add a tablespoon of Greek yogurt or mayonnaise. This will also soften the tangy flavors.
Can I freeze the vinaigrette?
Freezing vinaigrette is not recommended, as the oil may separate and the texture can be altered. It's best when fresh, but you can refrigerate it for later use.
Can I use dried cilantro instead of fresh cilantro?
Dried cilantro can be used in a pinch, but its flavor is much milder than fresh cilantro, so you may need to adjust the amount to taste. Use 1/3 the amount of fresh cilantro called for (so, 1 tablespoon of dried for this recipe).
tools needed
Mixing Bowl: A medium-sized bowl is needed to combine all the ingredients such as olive oil, lime juice, garlic, chipotle peppers, cilantro, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: For measuring ingredients such as the lime juice, garlic, and cumin.
Whisk: A whisk for mixing the ingredients together until well combined.
Storage Container: If the vinaigrette is not used immediately, a covered container will be needed for refrigerating it until ready for use. A jar with a lid works well for this purpose.
what goes with it?
Grilled Corn: Brush the vinaigrette onto grilled corn on the cob for added flavor. The chipotle brings out the sweetness of the corn.
Grilled Chicken Salad: Drizzle the chipotle-lime vinaigrette over a bed of mixed greens topped with grilled chicken for a refreshing and zesty meal.
Roasted Vegetables: Toss seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and corn in the vinaigrette before roasting. The smokiness of the chipotle complements the natural sweetness of the vegetables, creating a balanced dish.
Fish Tacos: Use the vinaigrette as a dressing for fish tacos. The bright lime and smoky chipotle meld perfectly with grilled or fried fish.
Quinoa Bowl: Mix the vinaigrette into cooked quinoa and add black beans, corn, and avocado for a healthy bowl. The vinaigrette contributes tang and spice.
Marinated Shrimp: Soak shrimp in the vinaigrette before grilling or sauteing. This infuses them with flavor and the citrusy notes help tenderize the shrimp.
Chickpea Salad: Combine canned chickpeas with diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and the vinaigrette for a protein-rich salad. The vinaigrette brightens the dish and enhances the earthiness of the chickpeas.
Dipping Sauce for Tortilla Chips: Serve the vinaigrette as a dipping sauce with crispy tortilla chips. The flavors fuse well with the salty chips, offering a tasty appetizer.
Grilled Steak: Drizzle the vinaigrette over a grilled flank steak or skirt steak. The acidity cuts through the richness of the meat, while the chipotle adds a hint of heat.
Pasta Salad: Toss cooked pasta with the vinaigrette, cherry tomatoes, olives, and mozzarella for a lively pasta salad.
Tacos de Carnitas: Use the vinaigrette to dress carnitas tacos, providing a bright, zesty contrast to the rich, tender pork.
nutrition data
165 calories, 18 grams fat, 1 grams carbohydrates, 0 grams protein per serving. This recipe is low in sodium. This recipe is low in carbs.
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reviews & comments
June 29, 2021
I'm not a huge fan of salads unless they have a great dressing on them. This vinaigrette was amazing. I was worried it might be a bit hot with the peppers but it was perfect.
October 17, 2018
This recipe is a great one. I read reviews, the lime is not overwhelming to me. If so just add a touch more olive oil and if not spicy enough add a touch more chilpolte. Any recipe can be adjusted to your liking! I personally added more oil, both chilpotle peppers & powder, zested garlic clove & powder. Just a touch of each...and it was perfect! Good luck.
November 4, 2013
Delicious! I used this as the dressing on a (non mayo) potato salad. Big hit with the inlaws!
July 3, 2013
Too much lime but good otherwise. Use 1/8th cup lime. It's not as hot as it sounds either because the other ingredients balance the chipotle out.
September 24, 2007
my boyfriend and I tried this over a salad of greens and chicken (I shredded roasted chix from the grocery store... and we LOVED it. I had to add some sugar at the end, it was far too lime-y (I wasn't aware there ever WAS such a thing as too much lime... but it was). GREAT recipe, good for salads, or as a marinade for chicken (that's how we used the leftovers.) OH! And I used mostly flat leaf parsley because the boyfriend is sensitive to overwhelming cilantro. It was fantastic!