Citrus Poppy Seed Fruit Salad Dressing

πŸ•’ Prep: 10 min
πŸ”₯ Cook:
🍽 Serves: 8

This Citrus Poppy Seed Fruit Salad Dressing brings a burst of sunshine to your bowl. Tangy, sweet, and slightly nutty, it's an effortless way to elevate any fruit salad. Perfect for brightening up your day or impressing guests at brunch!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to make with simple ingredients.
  • Offers a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors.
  • Adds a refreshing twist to any fruit salad.
  • Versatile enough to pair with various fruits or even as a marinade.

Ingredients

1/4 cup orange juice
2 tbsp honey
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp lime juice
1 tsp poppy seeds
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 cup olive oil

Ingredients Explained

Orange juice provides the sweet, citrusy base of the dressing, offering a refreshing burst of flavor. The honey adds natural sweetness, balancing the tartness from the citrus juices. Lemon juice and lime juice bring a tangy zing, enhancing the overall flavor profile. Poppy seeds give a subtle nutty taste and a delightful crunch. Vanilla extract adds a hint of warmth and depth, while olive oil brings it all together, creating a smooth and creamy texture.

Tips & Tricks

  • For a thicker dressing, reduce the amount of orange juice slightly.
  • Use freshly squeezed juices for the best flavor β€” it makes a noticeable difference.
  • Whisk the dressing again just before serving, especially if it’s been sitting in the fridge for a while.

Detailed Instructions

Start by grabbing a mixing bowl that's large enough to hold all the ingredients comfortably. Pour in the orange juice, honey, lemon juice, and lime juice. Whisk them together until the honey dissolves completely. This might take a minute or two, but patience is key to achieving that perfect balance of flavors.

Once the honey is fully incorporated, add the poppy seeds and vanilla extract. Continue whisking to evenly distribute the poppy seeds throughout the mixture. Now, the fun part! Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously. This step is crucial for emulsifying the dressing, ensuring it doesn't separate later on. Once combined, store the dressing in the refrigerator until you're ready to use it.

Simplified Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, pour in the orange juice, honey, lemon juice, and lime juice.
2. Whisk together until the honey is fully dissolved.
3. Add poppy seeds and vanilla extract, continue whisking.
4. Slowly drizzle olive oil while whisking to emulsify the dressing.
5. Store in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Serving Suggestions

This dressing is perfect over a fresh fruit salad featuring a mix of berries, melon, and kiwi. For an extra special touch, sprinkle some toasted almonds on top. It also works beautifully as a marinade for grilled chicken, adding a citrusy kick to your meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of oils?
Yes, you can substitute olive oil with grapeseed or avocado oil for a different flavor profile.
How long can I store this dressing?
Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, it should last up to one week.
Is it okay to use bottled juice?
Freshly squeezed juice is recommended for the best taste, but bottled juice can be used in a pinch.

Ratings and Comments

Thank you for your rating!