Pineapple Dressing - Recipe Card
Bring color and versatility to your recipe collection with pineapple dressing. Its sweet, tangy, and somewhat salty tastes enhance salads, marinades, and sweets. You can make a tropical-flavored dressing at home using fresh, healthy ingredients and these easy steps.
Ingredients
- Fresh Pineapple Chunks 1 cup
- The star of the show! Fresh pineapple provides natural sweetness and acidity creating the perfect flavor base. If fresh pineapple isn’t available, you can use canned pineapple in juice, but drain it well to avoid excess liquid.
- Honey 2 tablespoons
- Adds a subtle sweetness that complements the tartness of the pineapple. For a vegan version substitute with maple syrup or agave nectar.
- Apple Cider Vinegar 1/4 cup
- This tangy vinegar enhances the brightness of the dressing and balances the sweetness. You can use white wine vinegar or rice vinegar as alternatives.
- Olive Oil 1/4 cup
- Provides richness and a smooth texture. Avocado oil or grapeseed oil work well if you prefer a lighter flavor.
- Garlic 1 clove, minced
- Adds depth and a slight savory note. You can substitute with 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder if fresh garlic isn’t available.
- Dijon Mustard 1/2 teaspoon, optional
- Helps emulsify the dressing while contributing a hint of sharpness. If you like your flavors to be easier skip this.
- Salt and Black Pepper
- Enhances and balances all the flavors. Adjust to taste.
- Optional Add-ins:
- A pinch of chili flakes for a spicy kick or fresh cilantro for a herbal twist.
Instructions
- Prepare the pineapple base: Add the fresh pineapple chunks to a blender or food processor. Blend for 30–40 seconds until smooth. If using canned pineapple, make sure to pat it dry before blending to control the consistency.
- Add the sweetener: Pour in the honey (or your chosen substitute) and blend again for 10 seconds to integrate the sweetness evenly throughout the mixture.
- Incorporate acidity: Slowly add the apple cider vinegar while blending on low speed. This ensures the flavors balance without overpowering the pineapple’s natural taste.
- Emulsify the dressing: With the blender running on low, gradually drizzle in the olive oil. This step is crucial to achieve a creamy and well-emulsified texture.
- Season and finish: Add minced garlic, Dijon mustard (if using), and season with salt and black pepper. Blend for another 10–15 seconds to combine. Taste the dressing and adjust salt or sweetness as needed.
- Chill before serving: Transfer the dressing to a glass jar and refrigerate for 20–30 minutes. The tastes can blend nicely during this time of rest. Shake well before use.
Notes
- Balance the Sweetness: If your pineapple is overly tart, add an extra teaspoon of honey or maple syrup.
- Avoid Over-Blending: Blend just until smooth to maintain a vibrant and fresh texture.
- Make it Vegan: Use agave nectar or coconut sugar instead of honey for a plant-based option.
- Double the Recipe: Easily scale up the quantities for larger gatherings or meal prepping.
- Storage and Freezing: Store the pineapple dressing in an airtight jar in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Shake before each use to re-emulsify. For longer storage, freeze in ice cube trays and thaw individual portions as needed.
Nutrition Information: Calories: 80kcal | Carbohydrates: 9g | Protein: 0.3g | Fat: 5g | Saturated Fat: 0.7g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.6g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3.5g | Sodium: 75mg | Potassium: 45mg | Fiber: 0.5g | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin C: 8mg | Calcium: 5mg | Iron: 0.2mg
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