5-Minute Cilantro Lime Vinaigrette
Cilantro Lime Vinaigrette is perfect for adding a burst of flavor to your favorite dishes! If you love the bright, vibrant flavors of cilantro and lime, you’ll adore this easy salad dressing recipe.
What you’ll love about this recipe:
- Make it in 5 minutes. This recipe is incredibly quick and easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and a whisk, you can have a delicious homemade vinaigrette in just five minutes.
- Healthy. This homemade salad dressing is made with fresh ingredients like cilantro, lime juice, and olive oil.
- Special diet friendly. Naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and egg-free.
The Perfect Summer Dressing: Cilantro Lime Vinaigrette
If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for new ways to add a little pizzazz to your meals. If there’s one thing I’ve learned over the years, it’s that a great dressing can make all the difference — and actually make you look forward to eating salad!
I know cilantro can be polarizing, but trust me when I say that if you’re a fan, this vinaigrette is a game-changer. The fresh, zesty flavor of the cilantro combined with the tangy lime juice creates a dressing that’s bright and refreshing.
What I love most about this vinaigrette, though, is its versatility.
Whether you’re tossing it with a simple green salad, drizzling it over grilled chicken, or using it as a marinade for your favorite seafood, it can add a little extra something to so many meals.
Plus, it’s super easy to make and can be stored in the fridge for up to a week, making it perfect for meal prep or those busy weeknights when you want to whip up something delicious in a hurry.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Fresh cilantro. Lots of it!
Lime juice. 1-2 juicy limes should do it!
Olive oil. You can also use avocado oil, or your favorite neutral oil.
Garlic. For a little extra punch!
Kosher salt.
For a smoother dressing, you’ll also need a blender. I use my nutribullet, which is great for blending small amounts.
Tips and Tricks:
For a creamier salad dressing, add a tablespoon of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the mixture.
If you prefer a spicier vinaigrette, add a pinch of red pepper flakes, a few dashes of hot sauce, or a chopped jalapeño pepper to the mixture.
This vinaigrette is also delicious as a marinade for chicken, shrimp, or fish. Simply marinate the protein for 30 minutes to an hour before grilling or baking.
How to serve it:
On a salad (I love it on this Southwest Barbecue Chicken Salad)
As a marinade for chicken.
Drizzled over grilled vegetables or corn on the cob.
As a sauce for tacos (especially grilled fish tacos!)
On meal prep rice bowls with black beans, sweet potato, and avocado (I love making these for lunch!)

Commonly asked questions
How do I store it?
Keep this dressing in an air tight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week!
Can I substitute other herbs for cilantro?
Yes, but keep in mind that it will change the flavor profile. Basil and parsley are both nice alternatives!
Can I make this vinaigrette without lime juice?
Lime juice is a key ingredient in this recipe, but you can substitute it with lemon juice or vinegar for a similar tangy flavor.
Can I use this vinaigrette as a marinade?
Absolutely! This vinaigrette works great as a marinade for chicken, fish, or tofu.
Will this vinaigrette work well on roasted vegetables?
Yes, this vinaigrette is a great way to add some flavor to roasted vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, or cauliflower.
Can I make this vinaigrette in advance and freeze it?
While you can freeze this vinaigrette, it’s best to make it fresh as needed for the best flavor.
Can I double or triple this recipe to make a larger batch?
Absolutely! This recipe can easily be scaled up or down depending on your needs.
Can I use this vinaigrette on fish tacos or other Mexican dishes?
Yes, this vinaigrette is a great way to add additional flavor to tacos, burrito bowls, or other Mexican-inspired dishes.
More salad dressing recipes you’ll love:
- Healthy Greek Yogurt Caesar Dressing
- Basic Vinaigrette
- Easy Homemade Miso Sauce
- Pesto Vinaigrette
- Hummus Vinaigrette
Cilantro Lime Vinaigrette
Equipment
- high-power blender optional
Ingredients
- ½ cup fresh lime juice
- ½ cup olive oil or avocado oil
- ½ cup fresh cilantro
- 2 teaspoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic grated
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
Instructions
- Combine the lime juice, oil, cilantro, and honey in a blender container.
- Blend for 15-10 seconds, or until your desired consistency is reached.
- Stir in the garlic and season with salt.
