Qdoba Citrus Lime Vinaigrette Recipe – Easy Kitchen Guide

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By Lori Walker, MS, RD | Published on October 12, 2023 | Last Updated on October 12, 2023

Qdoba is Known for its fresh and customizable Mexican-inspired cuisine, this fast-casual restaurant has become a go-to spot for many foodies. And one of their most popular menu items is their citrus lime vinaigrette.

But what if we told you that you could recreate this delicious dressing at home? With just a few simple ingredients and some basic kitchen tools, you can make your own version of Qdoba’s citrus lime vinaigrette.

Get ready to experience the bold and zesty flavors of Qdoba right in the comfort of your own kitchen!  Just keep reading this article & learn how to make this delicious vinaigrette.  

Qdoba Citrus Lime Vinaigrette Recipe

What is Qdoba Citrus Lime Vinaigrette?

Qdoba’s citrus lime vinaigrette is a tangy and flavorful dressing that features a perfect balance of sweet and sour. It’s made with fresh citrus juices, Dijon mustard, honey, and olive oil, making it the perfect accompaniment to any salad or dish. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also super easy to make at home.

It has gained popularity due to its unique and refreshing taste that complements various dishes. Whether you’re using it as a dressing, marinade, or dipping sauce, this vinaigrette is sure to add a burst of flavor to any meal.

Why You’ll Love this Qdoba Citrus Lime Vinaigrette?

  • The combination of tangy citrus juices, sweet honey, and savory Dijon mustard creates a flavor explosion that is sure to tickle your taste buds.
  • Made with simple and fresh ingredients, this vinaigrette is healthier than store-bought dressings which are often loaded with preservatives and artificial flavors. Plus, you can easily adjust the sweetness or saltiness to suit your preference.
  • This versatile dressing can be used in a variety of ways to enhance the flavor of salads, meats, and vegetables. It’s also gluten-free, making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
  • By making this vinaigrette at home, you not only save money but also have control over the quality and quantity of ingredients used. And let’s be honest, homemade always tastes better! So why not give it a try?

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Ingredients 

  • Honey: This natural sweetener adds a touch of sweetness to balance out the tanginess of the citrus and mustard.
  • Extra virgin olive oil: The base for the vinaigrette, providing a smooth and rich texture.
  • Orange juice: Adds a burst of fresh, zesty flavor to the dressing.
  • Dijon mustard: A key ingredient in most vinaigrettes, adding both flavor and emulsifying properties to the dressing.
  • Lemon juice: Adds a bright, tangy note to the vinaigrette.
  • Garlic: Adds depth of flavor and a hint of spice to the dressing.
  • Salt: Enhances all the flavors in the vinaigrette and helps to balance out any sweetness or acidity.
Qdoba Citrus Lime Vinaigrette Copycat Recipe

Directions 

Step 1

Mix together honey and olive oil

Step 2

Add orange juice, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic, and salt

Step 3

Whisk all ingredients together until well combined and smooth.

Notes 

  • Use good quality, fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
  • Adjust the amount of honey and salt to your personal taste preferences.
  • For a spicier version, add a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
  • Make sure to whisk the dressing well before using as the ingredients may separate over time.
  • Experiment with different types of citrus juices, such as grapefruit or lime, for a unique twist on the vinaigrette.

Storage Tips  

  • This vinaigrette can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
  • Just make sure to give it a good shake before using as the ingredients may separate.
  • You can also freeze this dressing for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge before using and give it a good whisk.
How to Make Qdoba Citrus Lime Vinaigrette Recipe

Nutrition Information 

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Serving Suggestions

  • Use this vinaigrette to dress up any salad, from simple greens to more complex creations.
  • Try it as a marinade for chicken or fish before grilling or baking.
  • Use it as a dipping sauce for fresh vegetables or grilled meats.
  • Drizzle it over roasted vegetables for a flavorful and healthy side dish.

What other substitute can I use for Qdoba Citrus Lime Vinaigrette?

If you don’t have all the ingredients on hand or simply want to switch things up, there are some substitutes you can use in this recipe:

  • Instead of honey, you can use maple syrup or agave nectar for a vegan option.
  • If you don’t have orange juice, try using grapefruit or lime juice for a different flavor profile.
  • To make it spicier, add some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the dressing.
How to Make Qdoba Citrus Lime Vinaigrette Recipe

Qdoba Citrus Lime Vinaigrette Recipe

Qdoba is Known for its fresh and customizable Mexican-inspired cuisine, this fast-casual restaurant has become a go-to spot for many foodies. And one of their most popular menu items is their citrus lime vinaigrette.
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Author: Lori Walker, MS, RD
Course: Dressing
Cuisine: Mexican
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 1
Calories: 68kcal

Equipment

  • mixing bowl & whisker

Ingredients

Instructions

  • In a small mixing bowl, combine the honey and extra virgin olive oil.
  • Next, pour in the orange juice, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt.
  • Using a whisk, vigorously mix all the ingredients together until they are well combined and form a smooth vinaigrette.

Notes

  • Use good quality, fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
  • Adjust the amount of honey and salt to your personal taste preferences.
  • For a spicier version, add a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
  • Make sure to whisk the dressing well before using as the ingredients may separate over time.
  • Experiment with different types of citrus juices, such as grapefruit or lime, for a unique twist on the vinaigrette.
Keyword: Qdoba Citrus Lime Vinaigrette Recipe

FAQs

Can I substitute the honey with another sweetener?

Yes, you can use maple syrup or agave nectar instead of honey in this recipe.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this Qdoba Citrus Lime Vinaigrette recipe is gluten-free.

Can I use this as a marinade for beef or pork?

Absolutely! This vinaigrette works well as a marinade for all types of meat. Just be sure to marinate for at least 30 minutes before cooking.

Conclusion

Now that you have this easy and delicious recipe, there’s no need to visit Qdoba for their famous citrus lime vinaigrette. Impress your friends and family with this homemade version and enjoy the zesty, tangy flavors in every bite!

Thank you for reading. Please share this article with your loved ones and let us know in the comments how it turned out for you.

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Author Profile

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

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