Peach Honey Dijon Balsamic Vinaigrette
A Sweet, Tangy, and Unexpectedly Delicious Dressing You’ll Want to Put on Everything!
Looking for a unique salad dressing that combines sweet, savory, and tangy notes in one vibrant bottle? Say hello to your new favorite vinaigrette: Peach Honey Dijon Balsamic Vinaigrette. This recipe takes the rich depth of balsamic vinegar and balances it with the natural sweetness of fresh ripe peaches, the golden stickiness of honey, and the subtle bite of Dijon mustard.
It’s the perfect companion for summer salads, grilled proteins, roasted vegetables, and even as a marinade. Whether you’re trying to eat healthier, avoid store-bought preservatives, or just elevate your everyday dishes, this homemade vinaigrette is a total game-changer.
Ingredients Breakdown
Here’s everything you’ll need to make about 1 cup of this incredible vinaigrette:
- 1 ripe peach, peeled and diced (the riper, the sweeter)
- 2 tablespoons honey – adds natural sweetness and helps with emulsification
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard – brings sharpness and depth
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar – tangy, rich, and slightly sweet
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil – gives a silky texture and richness
- Pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper – enhances the overall flavor
- Optional: A splash of cold water – to thin out the consistency if needed
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by choosing a peach that is soft and fragrant. If peaches aren’t in season, you can also use frozen or canned (just be sure to drain well). Peel and dice the peach into small chunks.
Step 2: Blend the Base
In a high-powered blender or food processor, combine:
- Diced peach
- Honey
- Dijon mustard
- Balsamic vinegar
Blend until completely smooth and no peach chunks remain. The result should be a vibrant, fragrant puree with a balanced sweet-tart aroma.
Step 3: Emulsify with Olive Oil
While the blender is running on low speed, slowly drizzle in the olive oil. This technique creates a creamy, stable emulsion that won’t separate easily. You should see the mixture begin to thicken slightly and turn glossy.
If it looks too thick, add a splash of cold water (1–2 tablespoons) to reach your desired consistency.
Step 4: Season and Store
Add a pinch of salt and a few grinds of black pepper. Blend one final time to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary—some peaches are sweeter than others, so you may need a touch more vinegar or mustard depending on your preference.
Transfer the dressing to a glass jar or airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. Shake well before each use.
Perfect Pairings for This Vinaigrette
This vinaigrette works beautifully on a wide variety of dishes. Here are some of our favorites:
- Spinach & Goat Cheese Salad – The sweet vinaigrette contrasts perfectly with creamy, tangy goat cheese and earthy spinach.
- Grilled Chicken Bowls – Use it as a marinade or drizzle it over grilled chicken with quinoa, arugula, and cherry tomatoes.
- Chopped Veggie Salads – Think cucumber, bell peppers, red onion, and chickpeas—this vinaigrette ties it all together with a sweet punch.
- Sandwich Spread – Add a few spoonfuls to a turkey sandwich for extra zip and flavor.
- Roasted Veggies – Drizzle over roasted carrots or sweet potatoes for a caramelized glaze.
Recipe Summary
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: ~1 cup
- Calories: ~90 per tablespoon
Pro Tips & Variations
- Make it vegan: Use agave nectar or maple syrup instead of honey.
- Use white balsamic: For a lighter color and milder flavor.
- Add herbs: Try a few leaves of fresh basil or thyme blended in for a gourmet twist.
- Make it creamy: Blend in 1–2 tablespoons of Greek yogurt for a thicker, creamier version.
- Longer shelf life: Add 1/2 teaspoon Dijon at the end to help with emulsification and preservation.
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