By Lori Walker, MS, RD | Published on March 8, 2023 | Last Updated on March 24, 2024
Moe’s Southwest Vinaigrette is a light and tangy dressing that was inspired by Moe’s Southwest Grill. This popular dressing is the perfect way to add flavor and excitement to a variety of salads. The combination of spices and seasonings gives it just the right amount of kick.
In this article, we will share the copycat of moe’s southwest vinaigrette recipe and show you how to make it in the comfort of your own home. So, keep reading!
What is moe’s southwest vinaigrette?
Moe’s Southwest Grill is a Mexican-style fast-food restaurant that has a wide selection of salads, tacos and burritos. Their signature dressing is their Southwest Vinaigrette. It is a light and tangy dressing with a spicy kick and a hint of sweetness.
You can enjoy this dressing on salads, tacos, and anything else your heart desires!
Want more Vinaigrette Recipes? Check them out!
What does it taste like?
Moe’s Southwest Vinaigrette has a light and tangy flavor with a hint of sweetness. The combination of spices adds an extra kick that makes it anything but ordinary.
The cumin powder brings a slight smokiness to the dressing, while the garlic powder gives it a spicy undertone. The lime juice and honey add a nice balance to the dressing, and the cayenne pepper adds a bit of heat for an extra kick. The result is a flavor-packed vinaigrette that’s perfect for salads or tacos!
How did I first get introduced to the moe’s southwest vinaigrette?
I was first introduced to this dressing when visiting Moe’s Southwest Grill and having their signature Fiesta Salad which features this delicious dressing.
I was immediately taken aback by the bold and unique flavors that this dressing had to offer. It was unlike any other salad dressing I had ever tried before, with a mix of sweetness and spiciness, it quickly became my go-to salad dressing!
Since then, I’ve been hooked on Moe’s Southwest Vinaigrette and decided to make my own version at home.
Also Read: Longhorn steakhouse white balsamic vinaigrette recipe
How to make moe’s southwest vinaigrette?
Making this dressing is very easy and requires only a few simple ingredients. See the recipe below for detailed instructions on how to make your own Moe’s Southwest Vinaigrette at home.
Ingredients
- ½ tsp Dried Oregano
- ½ tsp Onion Powder
- ¾ tsp Cumin Powder
- ¼ tsp Black Pepper
- ½ tsp Garlic Powder
- 1 ½ tbsp Freshly Squeezed Lime Juice
- ½ cup Light Olive Oil
- ¼ cup Red Wine Vinegar
- ½ tsp Kosher Salt
- 1 tbsp Honey
- 2 tsp Dijon Mustard
- ¼ tsp Paprika
- ¼ tsp Cayenne Pepper
Step by step instructions
Step1:
In a large bowl, combine all ingredients except olive oil and whisk to blend.
Step2:
Slowly add in olive oil while whisking continuously to form an emulsion.
Step3:
Taste the dressing and adjust salt, pepper, or other seasonings as desired.
Step4:
Pour the vinaigrette into a container with a tight-fitting lid and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.
Tips
• You can adjust the acidity level of moe’s southwest vinaigrette by changing the proportion of vinegar to lime juice.
• If you don’t have red wine vinegar, you can substitute any other type of vinegar such as apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar.
• For a spicier version, you can add more cayenne pepper to the dressing.
Moe’s Southwest Vinaigrette Recipe
Equipment
- Measuring Cup
- mixing bowl
- Mason Jar
- measuring spoon
Ingredients
- 1 tsp Kosher Salt: Include a teaspoon of kosher salt enhancing the overall taste and bringing out the flavors of the other ingredients.
- 1/2 tsp Paprika: Add half a teaspoon of paprika lending a mild smokiness and a vibrant red color to the recipe.
- 1/2 tsp Black Pepper: Include half a teaspoon of black pepper adding a subtle hint of spiciness and depth to the flavors.
- 2 tbsp Honey: Incorporate two tablespoons of honey bringing a natural sweetness and a touch of caramelized flavor to the dish.
- 1/2 tsp Cayenne Pepper: Utilize half a teaspoon of cayenne pepper providing a fiery kick and a zesty heat to the dish.
- 4 tsp Dijon Mustard: Incorporate four teaspoons of Dijon mustard adding a tangy and slightly spicy taste to the dish while acting as a natural emulsifier.
- 1 1/2 tsp Cumin Powder: Utilize one and a half teaspoons of cumin powder infusing the dish with warm and earthy notes.
- 1 tsp Dried Oregano: Include a teaspoon of dried oregano infusing the dish with a fragrant and herbaceous taste.
- 3 tbsp Freshly Squeezed Lime Juice: Add three tablespoons of freshly squeezed lime juice providing a refreshing citrusy tang to the dish.
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder: Add a teaspoon of garlic powder providing a rich and robust garlic taste to the recipe.
- 1 cup Light Olive Oil: Utilize one cup of light olive oil contributing a smooth and mild flavor while creating a luscious texture.
- 1 tsp Onion Powder Incorporate a teaspoon of onion powder imparting a savory and aromatic flavor to the dish.
- 1/2 cup Red Wine Vinegar: Incorporate half a cup of red wine vinegar offering a tangy and acidic element to balance the flavors.
Instructions
- Whisk all ingredients except olive oil together in a large bowl.
- Then, gradually add the olive oil while constantly stirring to create an emulsion.
- Give it a taste test and adjust with salt, pepper or any other desired seasonings as necessary.
- Lastly, pour the dressing into an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to use.
Notes
Nutrition Information
What to serve with moe’s southwest vinaigrette?
Moe’s southwest vinaigrette can be used as a salad dressing, as a marinade for chicken or fish, or even on vegetables such as steamed broccoli or roasted sweet potatoes. It also pairs well with Mexican dishes like tacos and burritos.
How to store leftover moe’s southwest vinaigrette?
Leftover moe’s southwest vinaigrette should be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container and consumed within 2 weeks.
Can pregnant women eat this?
Yes, pregnant women can safely enjoy moe’s southwest vinaigrette. However, they should keep the serving size under control and avoid eating large amounts of it.
FAQs
Is this dressing gluten-free?
Yes, moe’s southwest vinaigrette is gluten-free.
Can this dressing be used as a marinade?
Yes, moe’s southwest vinaigrette can be used as a marinade for chicken or fish. It adds flavor and moisture to the meat while it cooks.
Do I have to refrigerate this dressing?
Yes, it is best to store moe’s southwest vinaigrette in the refrigerator and consume within two weeks. It is not safe to store this dressing at room temperature. The ingredients used are prone to spoilage.
Is there an alternative to olive oil?
Yes, if you don’t have access to light olive oil you can use any other light cooking oil such as avocado oil, canola oil, or sunflower oil. These are all good alternatives to olive oil in this recipe.
Wrapping Up
Moe’s Southwest Vinaigrette is a delicious and versatile dressing that can add flavor and spice to salads, vegetables, fish, chicken, or tacos. You can make this delicious dressing at home in no time at all!
So, the next time you’re looking for a delicious and flavorful condiment for your meal, look no further than moe’s southwest vinaigrette. And please give us feedback.
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My name is Lori Walker. I’m a registered dietitian, food blogger and food enthusiast. I share easy healthy, delicious recipes on my blog and review necessary kitchen items. The recipes I share take less… Read more
