Copycat Chili's Citrus Balsamic Dressing Recipe

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This copycat dressing is a light and refreshing dressing that is perfect for salads or as a dip. It has a delicious tangy citrus flavor that is perfect for any time of year.

serves/makes:

ready in:

under 30 minutes

3 reviews
1 comment

ingredients

7 juicy tangerines
5 lemons
1/2 cup balsamic vinegar

directions

Cut the tangerines at the equator, splitting the tangerine into two halves.

Section 1-2 halves leaving the pith/membrane, reserve the sections.

Extract the juice from the remaining tangerines. Strain the juice through a fine mesh strainer.

Extract the juice from the lemons. Strain the juice.

added by

bestcookinarkansas

recipe tips

Citrus fruits vary in size. Use medium size tangerines and lemons. If they aren't very juicy you may need additional fruit.

Use a fine mesh strainer to remove any seeds and pulp for a smooth dressing.

The reduction process is key to achieving the right consistency and flavor concentration; watch closely to prevent burning.

Cool the dressing completely before using it on salads so it doesn't wilt the greens.

Taste the dressing after reduction and adjust the acidity or sweetness to taste.

Store the dressing in a glass jar or bottle in the refrigerator for the best flavor.

Shake or stir the dressing well before each use as separation may occur.

common recipe questions

Can I use oranges instead of tangerines?

Yes, oranges can be used as a substitute for tangerines for a slightly different but still delicious citrus flavor.

Is there a way to make this dressing sweeter?

If you prefer a sweeter dressing, you can add a tablespoon of honey or agave syrup during the reduction process.

Can I use white balsamic vinegar instead of regular balsamic vinegar?

Yes, white balsamic vinegar can be used for a milder taste and a lighter color in the dressing.

How long will this dressing last in the refrigerator?

This dressing should last in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Can I add herbs to this dressing?

Adding herbs like thyme, basil, or mint can enhance the dressing's flavor.

Is it possible to make this dressing without reducing the juices?

While you can mix the ingredients without reducing, the reduction process concentrates the flavors and gives the dressing a syrupy consistency.

Can I add lime juice?

Sure, adding lime juice will contribute an additional tangy flavor.

How can I thicken the dressing if it's too runny after cooling?

If the dressing is too runny, you can continue to reduce it over low heat or add a small amount of a thickening agent like cornstarch dissolved in water.

What are some salad ingredients that pair well with this dressing?

This dressing pairs well with mixed greens, avocado, grilled chicken, nuts (like almonds or walnuts), and fruits (such as strawberries or blueberries).

nutrition data

10 calories, 0 grams fat, 3 grams carbohydrates, 0 grams protein per tablespoon. This recipe is low in sodium. This recipe is low in fat.

reviews & comments

JaneDR2012 March 15, 2019

The other day we went to Chili's for lunch in Lake Havasu. We've been once before (different location) but far too long ago! I chose the grilled chicken with a black beans & corn salsa with other veggies & a citrus basalmic dressing (I only wished I had a larger stomach so I could have eaten eat more!!) It was really that good! I am going to attempt to make the dressing at home based on this recipe! I highly recommend this dish as it was healthy, if you are eating for health, but the taste was fun & fantastic! No heat to mask the flavors so that was just my style!!
Valerie REVIEW:
May 21, 2016

Only use 3 lemons and make sure you're tangerines are really good and juicy. I made this once following the directions and it was a little too tart. I bought more tangerines and they were much sweeter than the first batch I had but I also reduced the lemon juice. Also, I've noticed that lemon sizes vary greatly so perhaps the original recipe used small lemons? Having juice quantity would make for a better recipe I think.
michelle REVIEW:
November 13, 2014

not even close to Chili's. And I get it a lot because the quesadilla explosion salad that it comes with is my favorite. I think it might have too much of the balsamic vinegar but I'm not sure. It's just way tarter than the chili's and it is darker in color. Either something is missing or it's just too much of something. I am going to keep looking or just experiment on my own. Thanks.
Guest Foodie REVIEW:
November 9, 2013

I couldn't get tangerines so I tried this with oranges and it was good. I want to try again with tangerines as I think it will be a little sweeter than using the oranges.

Please note:
This is a copy cat recipe submitted to CDKitchen by a third-party. This recipe is not an original recipe unless specifically stated and is considered only to be an acceptable "clone" to the original for the home cook to attempt to duplicate. Please also note that many nationwide restaurant chains vary their menus and ingredients by region so the version provided may not be similar to what you may have tried before. All trademarks referenced are property of their respective owners.

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Copycat Chili's Citrus Balsamic Dressing Recipe | CDKitchen.com (2024)