Tired of the same old salad dressings? Craving a burst of vibrant flavor that will elevate your meals from simple to sensational? Then look no further! This Cava Harissa Vinaigrette is your new secret weapon for delicious and healthy food recipes. It's incredibly easy to make, bursting with fresh Mediterranean flavors, and incredibly versatile. Whether you're tossing a simple green salad, marinating chicken, or drizzling it over roasted vegetables, this homemade dressing is guaranteed to impress. It's the perfect quick dinner idea for busy weeknights and adds a unique touch to any gathering.
Ingredients:
This easy recipe uses readily available ingredients to create a big flavour punch!
- 1/2 cup good quality Cava (or other dry sparkling wine)
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons harissa paste (adjust to your spice preference)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 small clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
This recipe is as straightforward as it gets, making it perfect even for beginner cooks.
- Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the Cava, olive oil, harissa paste, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and cumin.
- Season: Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Remember, you can always add more harissa for extra heat!
- Emulsify: For a smoother vinaigrette, whisk vigorously until the ingredients are well combined. If using a jar, close the lid tightly and shake well.
- Chill (Optional): For best results, cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step enhances the deliciousness of this healthy meal component.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of harissa paste to control the spiciness. Start with less and add more to your liking.
- Herbs: Add a tablespoon of finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or mint for an extra layer of flavor.
- Sweetness: A touch of honey or maple syrup can balance the acidity and add a subtle sweetness.
- Storage: Store leftover vinaigrette in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is approximate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Fat: 15-20g
- Protein: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 2-3g
This Cava Harissa Vinaigrette is more than just a salad dressing; it's a versatile culinary companion. It’s perfect for adding zing to roasted vegetables, grilled meats, or even as a flavorful marinade. Its bright, complex flavors will transform your everyday meals into something truly special. Enjoy experimenting with this incredibly delicious and simple recipe – it’s one of the best recipes for elevating your cooking!