Elevate your salads and dishes with a burst of flavor that will leave your taste buds dancing! The Roast Strawberry Balsamic Vinaigrette is not just a dressing; it’s a delightful experience that combines the sweetness of roasted strawberries with the tangy richness of balsamic vinegar. Perfect for summer picnics or a gourmet touch to your everyday meals, this recipe takes only 20 minutes from start to finish. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this vibrant and versatile vinaigrette that’s as easy to make as it is delicious!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tbsp honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Wash and hull the fresh strawberries, then carefully slice them in half. Arrange the strawberry halves cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spread out in a single layer for even roasting.
- Roast the strawberries in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes. The strawberries should become slightly caramelized, softened, and release their natural juices. Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes.
- Transfer the roasted strawberries to a blender or food processor. Add balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, a pinch of salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
- Blend the mixture until smooth and well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or honey to balance the flavors.
- Strain the vinaigrette through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any seeds and create a silky smooth texture, if desired.
- Let the vinaigrette cool to room temperature. It can be served immediately or stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Tips
- Choose Ripe Strawberries: For the best flavor, select fresh, ripe strawberries that are deep red in color. They will caramelize beautifully when roasted, enhancing their natural sweetness.
- Don’t Rush the Roasting: Make sure to roast the strawberries until they are slightly caramelized and tender. This process brings out their natural sugars, creating a richer flavor profile for your vinaigrette.
- Adjust to Taste: After blending, taste your vinaigrette and feel free to tweak the ingredients. If you prefer a sweeter dressing, add a little more honey. For a tangier kick, increase the balsamic vinegar.
- Straining for Smoothness: Straining the vinaigrette through a fine-mesh sieve is optional but recommended if you want a silky texture. This step ensures a refined finish that looks great on any plate.
- Storage Tips: Store any leftover vinaigrette in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last up to 5 days, but it’s so delicious you might find it gone in a day!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 60kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 0g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
