Paleo Cilantro-Lime Apple Cider Vinaigrette
Bright, tangy, and just a little bit bold, this vinaigrette is the kind of dressing that makes you want to put it on everything. Extra-virgin olive oil forms the rich base, while apple cider vinegar and fresh lime juice bring a lively acidity that wakes up any salad, grain bowl, or grilled protein it touches. Raw honey adds a gentle sweetness that balances the heat from optional red pepper flakes, and the cumin gives it a subtle earthy warmth that feels anything but ordinary. Store-bought dressings are notorious for sneaking in refined sugars, canola oil, and preservatives — none of which have a place here — so making your own means you know exactly what's going in the bottle. The technique is simple: whisk the acids and seasonings first, then slowly stream in the olive oil until the dressing emulsifies into something smooth and cohesive. Fresh cilantro stirred in at the end keeps its color and fragrance intact, giving every pour a burst of herby freshness. Make a jar at the start of the week and you've got a versatile, clean-ingredient dressing ready to elevate whatever's on the menu.
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Learn more →Ingredients
8 servings
- ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 3 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice (from about 1 lime)
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro leaves, finely chopped
- 1 small garlic clove, finely minced or grated
- 1 tsp raw honey
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- ¼ tsp fine sea salt, or to taste
- ⅛ tsp black pepper, or to taste
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Add the apple cider vinegar, lime juice, minced garlic, honey, cumin, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to a small bowl or jar. Whisk or stir until the honey is fully dissolved and the mixture is combined.
- 2
Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking constantly until the dressing is emulsified and slightly thickened, with no visible separation.
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