Cherry Vinaigrette Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Dressing

Are you searching for a bright, fruity, and vibrant salad dressing that perfectly complements your fresh greens while staying 100% vegan? Look no further!

This Cherry Vinaigrette Recipe Vegan is a delightful twist on the classic vinaigrette, blending the natural sweetness and tartness of cherries with tangy vinegar and savory herbs. It’s perfect for drizzling over crisp mixed greens, roasted vegetables, or grain bowls to elevate your meals with fresh, bold flavors.

Not only is this vinaigrette bursting with flavor, but it’s also incredibly simple to make with just a handful of wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or simply looking to add more plant-based options to your diet, this cherry vinaigrette will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.

Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use seasonal cherries or frozen ones when fresh aren’t available.

Ready to brighten up your salads and dishes? Let’s dive into this easy and delicious cherry vinaigrette recipe that promises a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory — all while being completely vegan!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cherry vinaigrette is a game-changer for your salad game and beyond. Here’s why:

• Vibrant and fresh flavor: The natural tartness of cherries combines beautifully with vinegar and olive oil, creating a well-rounded dressing.
• Simple and quick: Ready in under 10 minutes with minimal ingredients — perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
• Versatile: Use it on salads, roasted veggies, grilled tofu, or as a marinade to add a fruity punch.
• Health-conscious: Completely vegan, gluten-free, and packed with antioxidants from cherries.
• Customizable: Easily adjust sweetness or acidity to your preference, or add herbs and spices for variety.

Ingredients

• 1 cup fresh or frozen pitted cherries (if frozen, thaw before using)
• 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (adds a mild tanginess)
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup (for natural sweetness)
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil (for richness and balance)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (helps emulsify the dressing)
• 1 small garlic clove, minced (optional, for depth of flavor)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice (optional, for extra brightness)
• Fresh herbs like thyme or basil (optional, finely chopped for garnish)

Equipment

• Blender or food processor (for smooth emulsification)
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Small bowl or jar with lid (for mixing or storing)
• Whisk (if mixing by hand)
• Knife and cutting board (for mincing garlic and herbs)

Instructions

1. Prepare the cherries: If using fresh cherries, wash, pit, and halve them. If frozen, thaw completely and drain excess juice.
2. Combine base ingredients: In your blender or food processor, add the cherries, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic (if using).
3. Blend until smooth: Pulse or blend the mixture until the cherries break down and the mixture is smooth and uniform.
4. Slowly add olive oil: While running the blender on low speed, slowly drizzle in the olive oil to emulsify the dressing. This will help it thicken and combine beautifully.
5. Season and adjust: Add salt and pepper to taste. If you want more brightness, add the lemon juice here and blend for a few more seconds.
6. Test and tweak: Taste your cherry vinaigrette and adjust sweetness or acidity as needed by adding more maple syrup or vinegar.
7. Serve or store: Pour your vinaigrette into a jar or bottle. It can be used immediately or stored in the refrigerator for up to one week. Shake well before each use.

Tips & Variations

“For a chunkier texture, pulse the vinaigrette fewer times to keep small bits of cherry intact.”

• Use frozen cherries: When fresh cherries are out of season, frozen ones work wonderfully and add a slight natural sweetness.
• Swap vinegars: Try balsamic vinegar for a richer, deeper flavor or white wine vinegar for a lighter taste.
• Add heat: Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a small dash of cayenne for a spicy kick.
• Herbs and aromatics: Fresh basil, thyme, or mint can be blended in or sprinkled on top to complement the cherry flavor.
• Nutty note: Add a teaspoon of toasted walnut or almond oil along with olive oil for a unique twist.
• Sweetener alternatives: Use agave syrup or date syrup instead of maple syrup for different sweetness profiles.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This versatile cherry vinaigrette pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Drizzle over a fresh mixed green salad with arugula, spinach, and toasted pecans.
• Use as a dressing for roasted beets and carrots topped with fresh herbs.
• Mix into grain bowls featuring quinoa, chickpeas, and roasted vegetables.
• Serve alongside grilled or baked tofu for a flavorful finishing touch.
• Try it as a dipping sauce for crusty bread or a drizzle over vegan cheese platters.

For more inspiration, check out my Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe which pairs wonderfully with fruity dressings like this one. Also, if you enjoy exploring bold flavors, the Pickled Cherry Pepper Recipe offers a spicy complement to sweeter dishes.

Conclusion

This vegan cherry vinaigrette is an absolute delight — combining the natural sweetness and tartness of cherries with the savory depth of olive oil and mustard. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, meaning you can elevate your salads and dishes without spending hours in the kitchen.

Its vibrant color and fresh flavor will brighten your meals and impress guests or family alike.

Whether you’re seeking a new dressing for your summer salads or a versatile sauce to add a fruity punch, this recipe delivers on all fronts. Don’t hesitate to experiment with the variations to make it your own.

If you love creative dressings and want to try other unique flavors, explore recipes like the Peach Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe or the Peanut Butter Ganache Recipe for dessert inspiration!

Enjoy this fresh and flavorful cherry vinaigrette as a delicious addition to your vegan cooking repertoire!

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