Peach Vinaigrette
THE WHY BEHIND THIS RECIPE
I try to use fruit as my sweetener in dressings or sauces whenever I can. Not just because it feels more natural, but because it is more natural—fiber, vitamins, polyphenols, and all! A ripe peach doesn’t just bring sweetness to this vinaigrette—it brings body, color, and a kind of floral warmth that honey alone could never deliver!!
As of the time writing this (May), peaches are this close to being in season. You know the moment—when you walk past the farmstand and the air smells like sunshine and syrup. Ugh I can’t wait! This dressing is little sweet, a little tart, a little smoky, and it goes with just about everything—from grilled chicken to a salad full of bitter greens and toasted nuts.
Yields: Makes enough for 1 very large well dressed salad
WHAT YOU NEED
TOOLS
INGREDIENTS
1 very ripe peach, pit removed and cut into chunks (no need to peel)
1/4 cup champagne vinegar
1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
Juice of ½ lemon (about 2 tbsp)
1 small shallot, roughly chopped
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
1 tbsp raw honey or maple syrup
1 tsp dijon mustard
1 tsp sea salt
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
HOW TO DO IT
1.Marinate for mellow flavor
In a small bowl, combine the chopped shallot, champagne vinegar, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, and salt. Let sit for 10–15 minutes. This mellows the shallot’s sharpness and builds more complex acidity. If you don’t have time for this, just skip this step - no biggie!
2.Blend the base
Add the marinated mixture to a blender along with the peach chunks, 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup, 1 tsp dijon mustard, and 1/2 tsp smoked paprika. Blend until completely smooth.
3.Emulsify smarter
With the blender running on medium speed, slowly drizzle in the 1/4 cup olive oil in a thin stream. This helps form a stable emulsion—keeping your vinaigrette creamy and cohesive instead of separating after a few minutes.
4.Taste and tweak
Taste the dressing and adjust if needed: a pinch more salt, a splash more lemon juice, or a tiny bit of cold water to soften sharp edges without diluting the flavor.
5.Store and shake
Transfer to a jar with a lid. Refrigerate for up to 5 days. Shake well before using.
