Creamy Kiwi Vinaigrette | Salad Dressing Recipe

We all know kiwi is a standout ingredient in salads, but how about adding it to your repertoire of homemade salad dressings with Kiwi Vinaigrette? This versatile and unique dressing isn't limited to salads alone – think marinades that infuse your grilled proteins with a burst of fruity goodness or drizzled over a vibrant fruit salsa. 

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Homemade dressing is the healthiest choice when preparing salads, allowing you to control the ingredients and create truly delicious flavor combinations that would never be found in a store-bought bottle. Try this other delicious Mediterranean vinaigrette recipe!

Read on to learn about the incredibly nourishing benefits of kiwi and the other ingredients in this healthy dressing. Also find how to store your homemade salad dressing, additional add-in ideas to make your kiwi vinaigrette extra unique, and a comprehensive list of uses (some surprising!) for the vinaigrette.

This fruity salad dressing:

• is incredibly versatile (use it in salads, fruit salad, as a marinate and more!).
• provides the many health benefits of sweet kiwis.
• has the most delicious and refreshing tangy flavor.
• is perfect for a summer salad.

• Rich in Vitamin C:
  • Kiwi is renowned for its exceptionally high vitamin C content. This antioxidant vitamin plays a crucial role in supporting the immune system, aiding in the body's defense against illnesses and infections. Vitamin C also promotes collagen synthesis, contributing to healthy skin, blood vessels, and connective tissues.
• Dietary Fiber for Digestive Health:
  • Kiwi is a fantastic source of dietary fiber, which supports digestive health. The fiber content aids in regulating bowel movements, preventing constipation, and promoting a healthy gut microbiome.
• Potent Antioxidants:
  • In addition to vitamin C, kiwi contains other antioxidants, such as polyphenols and carotenoids. These compounds help neutralize free radicals in the body, potentially reducing oxidative stress and inflammation.
• Rich in Vitamins and Minerals:
  • Kiwi is a good source of various vitamins and minerals, including vitamin K, vitamin E, vitamin A, potassium, and folate. These nutrients play essential roles in bone health, vision, heart function, and overall well-being.
• Heart Health:
  • The dietary fiber, potassium, and antioxidants in kiwi contribute to heart health. Potassium helps regulate blood pressure, while fiber and antioxidants may have protective effects against cardiovascular diseases.
• Eye Health:
  • The high levels of lutein and zeaxanthin in kiwi are beneficial for eye health. These compounds are associated with a reduced risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and may contribute to maintaining healthy vision.
• Anti-Inflammatory Properties:
  • Some studies suggest that kiwi may possess anti-inflammatory properties, potentially aiding in the management of inflammatory conditions in the body.
• Asthma Management:
  • Certain studies have indicated that regular consumption of kiwi may be associated with a decreased incidence of wheezing in children and improved lung function. However, more research is needed in this area.

• Heart-Healthy Monounsaturated Fats: Olive oil is a source of monounsaturated fats, which are known to promote heart health by reducing bad cholesterol levels.
• Antioxidants: It contains polyphenols and vitamin E, which act as antioxidants, protecting cells from damage caused by free radicals.

• Acetic Acid: Apple cider vinegar contains acetic acid, which has been linked to various health benefits, including improved digestion and blood sugar regulation.
• Probiotics: Some varieties of apple cider vinegar contain beneficial bacteria, supporting gut health.

• Natural Sweetener: Honey adds sweetness without refined sugars, making it a better alternative for those watching their sugar intake.
• Antioxidants: Honey contains various antioxidants, which may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the body.

1. Prepare the Kiwis:
   • Wash the kiwis under running water to remove any dirt or debris from the skin.
   • Peel the kiwis using a knife or a vegetable peeler. Alternatively, you can cut the kiwis in half and scoop out the flesh with a spoon.
2. Combine Ingredients:
   • In a blender or food processor:
     • Add the peeled kiwis, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, black pepper, and honey.
     • Blend on high speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
   • If you don't have a blender:
     • Mash the peeled kiwis using a fork or potato masher until they form a smooth pulp.
     • In a bowl, whisk together the mashed kiwis with olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, black pepper, and honey until well combined. You can also use a hand-held immersion blender for smoother consistency.
3. Taste and Adjust:
   • Once blended or mixed, taste the vinaigrette and adjust the seasonings if necessary. You can add more salt, pepper, or honey to suit your preferences.

Your homemade kiwi vinaigrette is a versatile and flavorful dressing that can enhance a variety of dishes. Here are some ideas for things to use this kiwi vinaigrette for:

1. Green Salad:
   • Toss the kiwi vinaigrette with mixed leafy greens like spinach, arugula, and lettuce. Add sliced cucumbers, grape tomatoes, and avocado for a vibrant and refreshing salad.
   • Try this healthy spring mix salad! It is a perfect side dish.
2. Fruit Salad:
   • Drizzle the vinaigrette over a fruit salad featuring a combination of kiwi, strawberries, blueberries, and other seasonal fruits. The sweet and tangy flavors will complement the natural sweetness of the fruits. Garnish with fresh mint leaves.
3. Grilled Chicken or Shrimp Marinade:
   • Use the vinaigrette as a marinade for grilled chicken or shrimp. Let the proteins marinate for a few hours to infuse them with the fruity and savory notes of the dressing before grilling.
4. Quinoa or Couscous Salad:
   • Mix the vinaigrette into a quinoa or couscous salad, adding diced vegetables, feta cheese, and fresh herbs. It's a delicious and satisfying side dish or light lunch.
5. Vegetable Skewers:
   • Brush the kiwi vinaigrette onto vegetable skewers before grilling. This adds a burst of flavor to the vegetables, creating a tasty side dish for your barbecue.
6. Feta and Watermelon Salad:
   • Combine chunks of watermelon, feta cheese, and mint leaves. Drizzle the kiwi vinaigrette over this sweet and savory salad for a unique and summery flavor.
7. Salmon Glaze:
   • Brush the vinaigrette onto salmon fillets before baking or grilling. The combination of kiwi and honey adds a delightful glaze to the fish.
8. Fusion Tacos:
   • Use the kiwi vinaigrette as a topping for fish or chicken tacos. It adds a refreshing twist to the traditional taco toppings.
9. Fruit Salsa:
   • Create a fruity salsa by combining diced kiwi, mango, red onion, cilantro, and a drizzle of the vinaigrette. Serve it as a topping for grilled fish or as a refreshing appetizer with tortilla chips. 

Feel free to experiment with different combinations and get creative with how you use your kiwi vinaigrette. Its vibrant flavors make it a fantastic addition to a variety of dishes!

To store your kiwi vinaigrette, begin by refrigerating it in a sealed glass jar or airtight container for short-term use, generally within a week.

It's normal for vinaigrettes to separate due to the different densities of oil and water-based ingredients. Before each use, simply shake or stir the vinaigrette well to re-emulsify the components and restore the original consistency. While it's generally recommended to refrigerate vinaigrettes, if you prefer a more fluid consistency, you can leave it at room temperature for short periods.

Here are some creative variations to your kiwi vinaigrette recipe to add different flavors and textures:

1. Citrus:
   • Add a burst of citrus by incorporating the juice and zest of oranges, lemons, or limes. This will bring a refreshing and tangy element to the vinaigrette.
2. Herb Infusion:
   • Enhance the vinaigrette with fresh herbs like basil, mint, or cilantro. Finely chop the herbs and mix them into the dressing for a vibrant and aromatic twist.
3. Spicy Kick:
   • Introduce some heat by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. Adjust the amount according to your spice preference.
4. Garlic Infused:
   • For garlic lovers, mince or press a clove of garlic and mix it into the vinaigrette. Allow it to infuse for a more robust flavor.
5. Dijon Mustard:
   • Incorporate Dijon mustard for a tangy and slightly pungent kick. Start with a teaspoon and adjust to taste.
6. Soy Sesame:
   • Create an Asian-inspired version by adding soy sauce and a splash of toasted sesame oil. This variation complements salads with an umami-rich flavor.
7. Yogurt:
   • Make the vinaigrette creamy by blending in a couple of tablespoons of Greek yogurt. This adds a velvety texture and a touch of tanginess.
8. Fruit Fusion:
   • Experiment with other fruits like strawberries, mango, or pineapple to create a tropical fruit vinaigrette. Combine different fruits for a medley of flavors.
9. Nuts and Seeds Crunch:
   • Incorporate a tablespoon of toasted nuts (such as chopped almonds or walnuts) or seeds (like sesame seeds or poppy seeds) for added crunch and nutty undertones.

You may also like this Cava Inspired Vinaigrette Recipe!