SPICY CHIPOTLE LIME DRESSING
Spicy Chipotle Lime Dressing is a bold and zesty dressing with a smoky kick, blending the deep warmth of chipotle powder with the refreshing tang of lime. Olive oil adds smoothness, while honey provides a subtle sweetness that balances the heat. This dressing is perfect for adding a spicy, smoky depth to salads, tacos, grain bowls or grilled meats. Its rich and vibrant flavours complement Mexican and Tex-Mex dishes beautifully. With only a few simple ingredients and no cooking required, this dressing is quick to prepare and elevates any dish instantly. Whether drizzled over fresh greens, used as a marinade or served as a dipping sauce, this dressing adds the perfect balance of heat, acidity and richness. It’s an excellent choice for those who enjoy a little spice in their meals.
RECIPE CATEGORY
Salad Dressing
SERVING SIZE
1 serving
CUISINE
Mexican
PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES
No-Cook
OCCASION/HOLIDAY
Summer, Cinco de Mayo, Picnic, BBQ, Tailgating, Family Reunion
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS
Healthy, Quick & Easy, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Low Fat
DISH TYPE
Salad Dressing
INGREDIENTS
The following are the ingredients we need to prepare this spicy chipotle lime dressing.
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp lime juice
- ¼ tsp chipotle powder
- ½ tsp honey
- Salt to taste
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
- Calories: 90
- Total Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat:2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fibre: 0g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 0g
PREPARATION
- Prepare The Ingredients: Measure out all ingredients beforehand to ensure easy mixing. Use fresh lime juice for a brighter, more natural flavour.
- Combine The Liquids: In a small mixing bowl or jar, add the olive oil and lime juice. Stir well to start blending the base of the dressing.
- Add The Seasonings: Sprinkle in the chipotle powder and a pinch of salt. Stir or whisk thoroughly to distribute the spices evenly.
- Incorporate The Honey: Drizzle in the honey and mix well until it fully dissolves, ensuring a smooth and cohesive dressing.
- Adjust The Taste: Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more chipotle powder for extra spice or an extra squeeze of lime for additional tang.
- Let It Sit: Allow the dressing to rest for at least 5 minutes before serving. This step helps the flavours meld together for a more balanced taste.
- Serve And Enjoy: Drizzle over salads, tacos, grilled meats or roasted vegetables for a smoky, tangy boost of flavour.
PREP TIME
5 minutes
COOKING TIME
No cooking required
TIPS
Here are some helpful tips for you when making this spicy chipotle lime dressing.
- Use High-Quality Olive Oil: A good olive oil enhances the overall richness and smoothness of the dressing.
- Balance The Heat: If the dressing is too spicy, add a little extra honey or a few drops of water to tone it down.
- Mix Thoroughly: Chipotle powder can clump, so whisking or shaking the dressing well ensures even distribution.
- Make It Thinner: If the dressing is too thick, add a small amount of lime juice or water to loosen it up.
- Enhance The Flavour: A pinch of cumin or smoked paprika can deepen the smoky profile of the dressing.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the dressing to sit before serving helps intensify the chipotle flavour.
VARIATIONS
- Garlic Chipotle Dressing: Add ¼ tsp minced garlic for a more savoury, aromatic twist. Let the dressing sit for a few extra minutes to allow the garlic to infuse.
- Creamy Chipotle Dressing: Mix in 1 tbsp Greek yoghurt or sour cream for a thicker, creamier consistency that pairs well with tacos and burritos.
- Sweeter Version: Increase the honey to 1 tsp for a slightly sweeter dressing that balances out the smoky heat.
- Extra Spicy Dressing: Add ⅛ tsp cayenne pepper or an extra pinch of chipotle powder for a fiery kick. Adjust spice levels based on preference.
- Herb-Infused Dressing: Stir in ½ tsp finely chopped fresh cilantro for a fresh, herbal note that complements the smoky chipotle.
PREPPING AND STORAGE
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Shake or stir before using, as the ingredients may separate.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the emulsion may break and affect the texture.
- Serving Tip: If the dressing thickens in the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes and whisk before serving.