I recently noticed while searching for cherry vinaigrettes that most recipes either had canned cherries, cherry preserves and/or added sugars. And the ones I found that actually used fresh cherries, just used the juice after they were cooked… so, needless to say, this left me wanting to make a simple vinaigrette recipe with fresh or frozen cherries that didn’t have added sugars.
All you need for this recipe is a small sauce pan, a food processor (I used my mini one) and a few simple ingredients- fresh or frozen cherries, avocado oil, balsamic vinegar, fresh lemon juice, salt and pepper to taste…. and one secret, but VERY simple ingredient that I PROMISE you have on hand. Did you know that a tablespoon of water brings so much balance to a homemade vinaigrette? When experimenting with the ratio of oil, vinegar and fruit I was wanting to thin the dressing down a smidge without altering the flavor. I did a little reading and even the Kitchn talks about how water can be a great [surprising] addition!
This vinaigrette is guaranteed to go well with your favorite salad and if you’re looking for a new favorite salad recipe; I’ve got one coming your way very soon.
KISS Cherry Balsamic Vinaigrette
Equipment
- Small food processor or Magic Bullet*
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh ripe cherries (you can also use pitted or frozen cherries)
- 2 tbsp avocado oil
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- Pinch of salt and pepper
- t water, reserved
Instructions
- If using fresh cherries, remove the stems and pits. If using frozen, they should already be free of stems and pits. Place pitted cherries in small sauce pan and heat over medium until cherries are almost to a boil and bursting; this takes about 5-8 minutes, depending on fresh or frozen (frozen actually takes less time!). Remove from heat and let cool for 5 minutes.
- Place the slightly cooled cherries and remaining ingredients, except water, inside a mini food processor*, and blend until smooth. Add 1 Tbsp of water and blend for another 15-20 seconds.
- Serve with your favorite salad or use as a dip for veggies! Store in an airtight container for up to one week in the fridge.
Notes
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12 Responses
This is genius! I love cherries and I love vinaigrettes so this is a match made in heaven!
Thanks, Abbey! I’ve already gone through the first batch and need to whip up more- it’s so tasty!
This looks super delicious!! I LOVE cherries in the summertime! Will have to try this recipe for sure.
Same here! Thanks, Stacey. Let me know if you try it out!
This looks absolutely divine! I love the idea of cherries!
Thank you, Kathyrn! I’m definitely on a cherry kick; more cherry recipes to come!
That’s how you spell it?! New to me, haha! This dressing looks delicious!
Haha! Glad I’m not alone. Thanks, Whitney!
I literally have all those ingredients in my kitchen right NOW! I know what I’m putting on my salad tonight. 🙂
Yay! Let me know if you end up making it!
Sharing this recipe with my dad ASAP! He loves cherries and loves balsamic vinegar. GREAT idea!!
Thanks for sharing, EA! I hope he enjoys it!