If you’re on the hunt for a salad dressing that bursts with vibrant fruitiness and a perfect tang, this Raspberry Vinaigrette Recipe is an absolute game-changer. It’s bright, creamy, and incredibly versatile, made with fresh raspberries that bring both beautiful color and a natural sweetness to your greens. Whether drizzled over a simple mixed salad or used as a marinade, this dressing transforms an ordinary dish into something spectacular with just a few wholesome ingredients.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows six ingredients placed on a white marbled surface. In the center, there is a glass bowl filled with bright red raspberries. Above it to the left, a clear glass measuring cup holds golden yellow olive oil. To the right of the olive oil, a small white bowl contains honey with a smooth light golden color. Above the raspberries and slightly right, an earth-toned bowl holds a half circle of white salt and a half circle of crushed black pepper. Below the raspberries and to the left is a whole shallot with a light purple skin. To the right of the shallot, a white bowl holds creamy pale yellow Dijon mustard. Below these, a white bowl at the bottom contains deep red wine vinegar. All containers and ingredients are neatly arranged and clearly visible photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Raspberry Vinaigrette Recipe comes down to simple, fresh ingredients that come together effortlessly. Each component is chosen for its unique role in building layers of flavor, texture, and that irresistible rosy hue.

1 ½ cups raspberries: Fresh or thawed frozen, these little berries provide the star sweetness and vibrant color of the vinaigrette.
½ cup extra virgin olive oil: Adds a smooth, rich texture and balances the tartness of the vinegar.
¼ cup red grape vinegar: Packs a gentle acidity that brightens the dressing and lifts the flavor.
1 small shallot (diced, about 2 tbsp): Brings subtle onion notes and depth without overpowering the fruitiness.
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Acts as an emulsifier and adds a slight pungent kick for complexity.
1 teaspoon honey: Just a touch to enhance the natural sweetness and round out flavors.
¼ teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the other flavors and balances the sweetness.
Ground black pepper (to taste): Adds a delicate spicy warmth that complements the vinaigrette perfectly.

How to Make Raspberry Vinaigrette Recipe

Step 1: Combine the Ingredients

Start by adding your raspberries, extra virgin olive oil, red grape vinegar, diced shallot, Dijon mustard, honey, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper into a food processor. Using fresh or thawed frozen raspberries ensures the dressing is bursting with natural fruit flavor and vibrant color. The shallot and mustard bring just the right savory balance to the sweetness of the berries.

Step 2: Blend Until Smooth

Blend the mixture for about 30 seconds, or until you reach a creamy, smooth consistency. This is where the raspberry vinaigrette really comes to life, marrying the bright berry notes with the richness of the olive oil and the tang of the vinegar. Give it a quick taste and adjust salt or pepper if desired.

Step 3: Serve or Store

Once blended, your Raspberry Vinaigrette Recipe is ready to go. You can immediately drizzle it over your favorite greens, or transfer it to a sealed container and refrigerate until needed. It’s best enjoyed fresh but holds well for a few days.

How to Serve Raspberry Vinaigrette Recipe

A clear food processor bowl is filled with bright red raspberries scattered around evenly. On the left side, there is a layer of finely chopped light purple onions. In the middle, a dollop of pale yellow mustard sits on top of the raspberries. Some white salt is sprinkled on the raspberries near the center. A clear glass cup is pouring golden oil into the bowl from the right side. The whole setup is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkle fresh raspberries or finely chopped herbs like mint or basil on top of salads dressed with this vinaigrette to echo the fruity notes and add a refreshing contrast. Toasted nuts like walnuts or pecans also add a satisfying crunch that pairs wonderfully.

Side Dishes

This Raspberry Vinaigrette Recipe shines over mixed greens, arugula, or even spinach, but it’s just as delicious drizzled over roasted vegetables such as beets, carrots, or Brussels sprouts. Pair your dressed salad with a crusty bread or a simple grilled chicken breast to complete the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning presentation, try serving this vinaigrette in small glass bottles or decorative jars alongside your dishes to let guests add their own. You can also toss it with quinoa or couscous for a colorful, fruity grain salad that’s perfect for picnics or potlucks.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Raspberry Vinaigrette Recipe in an airtight container or jar in your refrigerator. Because it contains fresh ingredients, aim to use it within 3 to 5 days for the best flavor and freshness.

Freezing

While you might be tempted to freeze this vinaigrette, freezing is not recommended as the texture and flavor can be compromised once thawed. The fresh raspberries and vinaigrette’s emulsion may separate, impacting its silky smoothness.

Reheating

This vinaigrette is best served cold or at room temperature. If it separates after chilling, simply give it a gentle stir or shake. Avoid heating it directly as the fresh ingredients are delicate and meant to be enjoyed fresh.

FAQs

Can I use frozen raspberries for this Raspberry Vinaigrette Recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen raspberries work perfectly as long as you thaw them completely before blending. They provide the same vibrant flavor and color as fresh ones.

Is this Raspberry Vinaigrette Recipe suitable for vegan diets?

Yes, it is! The recipe uses honey, but you can easily swap it out for maple syrup or agave nectar to keep it completely vegan.

How long does the Raspberry Vinaigrette last in the fridge?

Stored properly in a sealed container, it will stay fresh for about 3 to 5 days. Always give it a stir before serving to recombine any separation.

Can I make this vinaigrette without a food processor?

You can! Simply mash the raspberries with a fork and whisk all ingredients vigorously together until well combined, though a food processor gives the smoothest texture.

What salads pair best with Raspberry Vinaigrette?

This dressing complements green salads with nuts, cheeses like goat or feta, fruits such as sliced apples or pears, and even grain salads. It adds a refreshing fruity twist wherever it goes.

Final Thoughts

If you love a dressing that’s bursting with fresh flavor and bright color, you absolutely must try this Raspberry Vinaigrette Recipe. It’s quick, easy, and elevates any salad or vegetable dish with its perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory notes. Once you make it, I promise it will become your go-to dressing for all seasons. Happy cooking and enjoy every vibrant drizzle!