Easy Chipotle Balsamic Vinaigrette

This smoky-sweet chipotle balsamic vinaigrette is the easiest way to spice up your salads-just shake up a few pantry ingredients in a jar. It's a simple, tasty dressing that's ready in minutes.

We have salad with dinner just about every night. I tend to avoid bottled salad dressings (most bottled salad dressing contains refined sugar and processed food additives), but sometimes I want the convenience of a bottled dressing.

This quick and easy chipotle balsamic vinaigrette fits the bill. No chopping and hardly any measuring-just pour everything in a jar and shake. It doesn't get much easier than that.

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The chipotle chili flakes give it just the right amount of smoky heat. It's not overwhelming, but it adds a little kick that really makes the flavors pop. A touch of honey balances things out with a subtle sweetness, which pairs so well with the richness of the balsamic vinegar. If you're a fan of that sweet-smoky combo, you're going to want to keep this one in rotation.

Another shortcut I love using in this recipe is garlic-infused olive oil. You still get that garlicky flavor without having to peel, mince, or grate fresh garlic. It's a small thing, but it saves time-and dishes. You can use regular olive oil if that's what you've got, but the garlic version gives it an extra layer of flavor that works beautifully in this dressing.

The key to this recipe is using a good quality balsamic vinegar. Since there are only a few ingredients in this vinaigrette, each one really matters. A naturally sweet aged balsamic will make a big difference in both flavor and texture.

I based this vinaigrette recipe on one part vinegar to two parts oil. But you can use as little as one part oil or as many as three parts oil, depending on how acidic or tangy you like your dressing.

Either way, this quick and easy chipotle balsamic vinaigrette is a great weeknight dressing recipe. It works with all kinds of salads and it's especially good on a BLT salad with avocado, or even drizzled over grilled chicken and roasted veggies. You can also use it as a quick marinade for steak or shrimp-it's super versatile.

Whether you're throwing together a last-minute side salad or looking for a simple way to switch up your usual dressing routine, this easy vinaigrette is a great go-to. Shake up a jar and stash it in the fridge-you'll be glad you did. Just give it a quick shake before serving, and you're ready to go.

More easy dressing recipes

If you're looking for more ways to shake up your salads, these homemade dressings are simple, flavorful, and easy to make ahead.

This Easy Italian Dressing comes together in minutes and works on everything from leafy salads to grilled chicken. It's tangy, herby, and way better than store-bought.

This Creamy Ranch Dressing is rich, packed with fresh herbs, and perfect for dipping or drizzling. It's a classic that goes with just about anything.

This Balsamic Basil Vinaigrette is simple and full of flavor. The mix of white balsamic vinegar and fresh basil makes it perfect for summer salads.

This Cranberry Salad Dressing is a little sweet, a little tart, and especially great on salads with fruit, nuts, or roasted squash. It's a favorite during the holidays but works all year.