If you’ve ever dined at Casa Vega, you know that their salad dressing is nothing short of legendary. This tangy, flavorful dressing perfectly complements fresh greens and adds a zesty punch to every bite.
Today, I’m thrilled to share the authentic Casa Vega salad dressing recipe that brings that same vibrant taste right to your kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just craving a refreshing salad, this dressing will elevate your greens to a whole new level.
It’s quick to make, uses simple ingredients, and can be stored for later use. Let’s dive into the secrets behind this delicious dressing that blends bright citrus, garlic, and herbs in a harmonious way.
Making your own salad dressing is not only rewarding but allows you to control the flavors and freshness. Plus, this recipe is versatile enough to pair with a variety of salads or even as a marinade.
If you love exploring recipes that bring restaurant favorites home, be sure to check out my Campisi’S Salad Dressing Recipe for another flavorful twist!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Casa Vega salad dressing recipe is a game-changer for anyone who loves bold, fresh flavors. Here’s why it’s worth making:
- Authentic flavor: This recipe captures the exact tang and zest you crave from the original dressing.
- Simple ingredients: You likely have everything in your pantry already.
- Quick to prepare: Whip it up in under 10 minutes with minimal effort.
- Versatile use: Perfect on salads, grilled veggies, or as a marinade for chicken.
- Fresh and healthy: Made with real citrus juice, herbs, and olive oil, it’s a wholesome choice.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup white vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 2 tablespoons orange juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 teaspoon honey or agave syrup for a touch of sweetness
- 1 garlic clove, finely minced or pressed
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for slight creaminess and emulsification)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Equipment
- Mixing bowl or medium jar with lid
- Whisk or fork
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Citrus juicer or reamer
- Fine grater or garlic press
- Optional: Blender or food processor for smoother texture
Instructions
- Prepare the citrus: Juice the lemons and orange using a citrus juicer. Remove any seeds to avoid bitterness.
- Combine liquids: In a mixing bowl or jar, add the olive oil, white vinegar, lemon juice, and orange juice.
- Add flavorings: Mix in the honey, minced garlic, and Dijon mustard (if using). The honey balances the acidity, while the mustard helps emulsify the dressing.
- Season: Sprinkle in the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and freshly ground pepper.
- Whisk vigorously: Use a whisk or fork to blend all ingredients until fully combined and slightly thickened. If using a jar, seal and shake vigorously for about 30 seconds.
- Taste and adjust: Sample the dressing and add more salt, pepper, or honey to suit your preference.
- Chill: Let the dressing rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Serve: Drizzle over your favorite salad greens or use as a marinade.
Tips & Variations
“For a smoother dressing, blend all ingredients in a food processor or blender. Adding fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can elevate the flavor profile even more.”
- Make it creamy: Stir in 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt to create a creamy version.
- Spicy twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
- Herb swap: Use fresh oregano and basil if available; finely chop about 1 tablespoon of each.
- Sweetness: Swap honey with maple syrup or agave nectar depending on your preference.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. Always shake well before using.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving (2 tbsp) |
---|---|
Calories | 120 kcal |
Total Fat | 13 g |
Saturated Fat | 2 g |
Cholesterol | 0 mg |
Sodium | 150 mg |
Total Carbohydrates | 2 g |
Sugars | 1.5 g |
Protein | 0 g |
Serving Suggestions
This bright and tangy Casa Vega salad dressing is incredibly versatile. Here are some ideas to enjoy it:
- Drizzle over a crisp garden salad with romaine, tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onion.
- Toss with grilled chicken or shrimp for a light, flavorful protein salad.
- Use as a marinade for grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus.
- Combine with chopped avocado and corn salad for a Southwestern flair.
- Pair beautifully with a fresh fruit salad featuring citrus segments and berries.
For more inspiration on using homemade dressings and fresh ingredients, check out my Lemon Ricotta Pasta With Arugula Recipe and Halibut Dip Recipe for unique ways to enjoy fresh, vibrant flavors.
Conclusion
Crafting the perfect Casa Vega salad dressing at home is easier than you might think, and the results are incredibly rewarding. This recipe delivers a bright, citrusy punch with a hint of sweetness and herbaceous depth that will transform any salad into a restaurant-quality experience.
Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this dressing is a fantastic way to brighten your meals with fresh, wholesome ingredients.
Don’t hesitate to experiment with the variations and tips provided to make it your own. Homemade dressings like this one not only taste better but also allow you to control what goes into your food.
For more flavorful recipes to complement your kitchen adventures, be sure to explore other favorites like the Instant Pot Rabbit Recipe and the refreshing Huckleberry Margarita Recipe. Happy cooking and enjoy your delicious Casa Vega salad dressing!
📖 Recipe Card: Casa Vega Salad Dressing
Description: A tangy and flavorful Mexican-style salad dressing perfect for fresh greens. Combines citrus, spices, and a touch of sweetness for a vibrant taste.
Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT0M
Total Time: PT10M
Servings: 1 cup
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Combine lime juice, orange juice, white vinegar, and honey in a bowl.
- Whisk in ground cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Slowly drizzle in olive oil while whisking continuously until emulsified.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 120 | Protein: 0.2g | Fat: 14g | Carbs: 2g
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