Bright, tangy, and bursting with fresh raspberry flavor, this Fresh Raspberry Balsamic Vinaigrette Dressing is a game-changer for your salads. In just 10 minutes, you can whip up a vibrant blend of sweet berries, rich balsamic vinegar, and smooth olive oil. The result? A silky, slightly tart dressing that dances on your palate and elevates even the simplest greens.
With its luscious texture and hint of natural sweetness, this dressing is as versatile as it is delicious. Drizzle it over crisp greens, roasted veggies, or even grilled chicken for a pop of flavor. Light yet satisfying, it’s a guilt-free way to add a gourmet touch to your meals without the fuss.
Fresh Raspberry Balsamic Vinaigrette Dressing Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh raspberries (washed and dried)
- 1 Tablespoon sugar (adjust to taste or substitute with maple syrup for a natural sweetener)
- ½ cup white balsamic vinegar (regular balsamic vinegar works too, but it will darken the dressing)
- ¼ cup olive oil (extra virgin recommended for best flavor)
- 1 Tablespoon honey (adjust to taste; use more for a sweeter dressing or less for a tangier flavor)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Mash the raspberries: In a small bowl, use a fork to mash the fresh raspberries until they release their juices. Add the sugar and mix well to combine.
- Combine ingredients: In a blender container (like the Aer Disc Container), pour in the white balsamic vinegar and olive oil. Add the mashed raspberries and honey.
- Blend the dressing: Using a Vitamix blender, start at variable 1. Gradually increase the speed to variable 10 and blend for 60 seconds until smooth and emulsified.
- Finish blending: Turn the speed back down to variable 1, then turn the blender off.
- Serve or store: Drizzle the dressing over a fresh green salad. Store any leftovers in an air-tight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
Perfect Pairings: Serving Suggestions
This Fresh Raspberry Balsamic Vinaigrette is a versatile dressing that pairs beautifully with a variety of salads. Try it over a mixed greens salad with goat cheese, toasted almonds, and sliced strawberries for a sweet and tangy combo. It also works wonderfully with a spinach and arugula blend, topped with grilled chicken, feta, and candied pecans. For a lighter option, drizzle it over a simple cucumber and avocado salad.
Storage Tips: Keeping It Fresh
Store your dressing in an air-tight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Before using, give it a good shake or stir, as the oil and vinegar may separate. If the raspberry seeds settle at the bottom, simply mix them back in for added texture and flavor. For longer storage, consider freezing the dressing in an ice cube tray and thawing as needed.
Recipe Variations: Make It Your Own
Customize this dressing to suit your taste! Swap white balsamic vinegar for regular balsamic for a deeper flavor, or use maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan-friendly option. If fresh raspberries aren’t available, try using frozen raspberries (thawed and drained) or even blackberries for a unique twist. For a creamier texture, blend in a tablespoon of Greek yogurt or Dijon mustard.
Time-Saving Tips: Quick and Easy Prep
To save time, mash the raspberries and mix the sugar ahead of time, storing the mixture in the fridge until you’re ready to blend. If you don’t have a high-speed blender like a Vitamix, a regular blender or even a hand immersion blender will work—just blend until smooth. Pre-measure your ingredients and keep them ready to go for a quick dressing fix whenever you need it.
Equipment Guidance: Tools for Success
While a Vitamix blender is ideal for achieving a smooth consistency, any high-speed blender will do the job. If you prefer a chunkier texture, skip the blender and whisk everything together by hand. A fine-mesh strainer can be used to remove raspberry seeds if you prefer a smoother dressing. Don’t forget your air-tight container for storage!
Fresh Raspberry Balsamic Vinaigrette Dressing
Equipment
- Aer Disc Container
- Vitamix blender
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh raspberries
- 1 Tablespoon sugar
- ½ cup white balsamic vinegar
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 1 Tablespoon honey (more or less, depending on how sweet you want it)
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mash the raspberries with a fork. Add in the sugar and mix well.
- In the Aer Disc Container, pour in the white balsamic vinegar and olive oil. Add in the mashed raspberries and the honey.
- Using a Vitamix blender, select variable 1. Turn the blender on and slowly increase speed to variable 10. Blend for 60 seconds.
- Turn speed down back to 1, then turn blender off.
- Serve over fresh green salad.
- Keep in an air-tight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.