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Jar of cilantro lime dressing surrounded by fresh limes, tomatillo, jalapeño and cilantro. Pork salad in the background.
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5 from 34 votes

Cafe Rio Cilantro Lime Vinaigrette

A tangy Cafe Rio copycat cilantro lime vinaigrette made with tomatillos, fresh cilantro, lime juice, and prepared balsamic vinaigrette. Also similar to Costa Vida's cilantro lime vinaigrette.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time0 minutes
Refrigerate2 hours
Total Time2 hours 15 minutes
Course: Dressing
Cuisine: Mexican/Spanish
Keyword: Cilantro Lime Vinaigrette
Servings: 12
Calories: 102kcal
Author: Erica Walker

Ingredients

  • 2 tomatillos, husked and diced
  • ½ bunch fresh cilantro
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 1 tablespoon diced jalapeño (remove seeds for less heat)
  • 4 tablespoons fresh lime juice (approximately 2 limes)
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 cup balsamic vinaigrette salad dressing see recipe notes

Instructions

  • Remove the tomatillo husks, rinse and chop the tomatillos, and prepare the remaining fresh ingredients. Add everything to a blender or food processor.
    Blender with balsamic vinaigrette, limes, jalapeno, tomatillos, sugar, garlic and cilantro.
  • Mix until all ingredients are well combined and the dressing is smooth.
    Blender with blended cilantro lime dressing.
  • Transfer to dressing container. Chill for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to blend.
    Pouring cilantro lime dressing from a blender to a jar.
  • Shake or stir well before serving over your favorite salad.
    Cilantro lime dressing in a cup with pork salad.

Notes

  • Use bottled balsamic vinaigrette salad dressing, NOT balsamic vinegar. The two are not interchangeable in this recipe.
  • Lighter balsamic vinaigrettes may produce a greener dressing. Darker ones can turn it brown.
  • Remove jalapeño seeds and membranes for less heat.
  • Refrigerate leftovers in a covered container for up to 1 week. Shake well before serving.
  • Check the bottled dressing label for allergens or gluten if needed.

Nutrition

Calories: 102kcal | Carbohydrates: 3g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 11g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Sodium: 1mg | Potassium: 24mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 40IU | Vitamin C: 3.9mg | Calcium: 1mg