Are you dreaming of a tropical getaway but stuck in the kitchen? Then let's bring the vibrant flavors of the islands to your table with this incredibly easy and delicious Bonefish Salad Dressing recipe! This creamy, zesty dressing is perfect for elevating your favorite salads, adding a burst of sunshine to your lunch, or even as a marinade for grilled seafood. It's a quick and healthy addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and homemade cooking techniques.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (choose your favorite – avocado mayo adds a creamy twist)
- 1/4 cup lime juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (for a touch of sweetness)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1 jalapeño pepper, finely minced (for a spicy kick)
Instructions:
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Combine Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lime juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, cilantro, honey (or maple syrup), garlic powder, salt, and pepper. If using, add the minced jalapeño pepper at this stage.
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Blend (Optional): For a smoother dressing, transfer the mixture to a blender or food processor and blend until completely smooth. This step is entirely optional; the dressing is delicious with a slightly chunky texture too!
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Taste and Adjust: Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add more lime juice for extra tang, honey for sweetness, or a pinch more salt and pepper to balance the flavors.
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Serve Immediately or Refrigerate: Serve the dressing immediately over your favorite salad or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight, creating an even more delicious dressing.
Tips and Variations:
- Make it Vegan: Swap the mayonnaise for a vegan alternative such as veganaise or a cashew-based cream.
- Add Some Heat: Increase the heat by adding more jalapeño or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
- Citrus Twist: Experiment with other citrus fruits, such as orange or grapefruit juice, for a unique flavor profile.
- Herby Delight: Incorporate other fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or chives for an extra layer of flavor.
- Avocado Creaminess: Use avocado mayonnaise for an extra creamy and healthy twist.
- Storage: Store leftover dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary based on the specific ingredients used. It's always best to use a nutrition calculator for precise values.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Protein: Approximately 1-2g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 5-10g
This Bonefish Salad Dressing is a fantastic addition to any quick dinner idea, and its bright, flavorful profile makes it perfect for healthy meals. It’s a testament to the magic of simple, homemade cooking, transforming ordinary ingredients into something truly special. Enjoy!