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First Watch Citrus Chipotle Dressing Recipe
Capri Koch

First Watch Citrus Chipotle Dressing Recipe

Make the refreshing First Watch Citrus Chipotle Dressing Recipe at home with fresh orange and lime juice, smoky chipotle peppers, honey, olive oil, and spices. This creamy, sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy dressing is perfect for salads, grilled chicken, tacos, and vegetables.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 10 Servings
Course: condiment, copycat recipes, dressing, Salad
Cuisine: amercian fusion, American, southwestern
Calories: 85
Ingredients Equipment Method Video Notes

Ingredients
  

Dressing Base
  • ¼ cup Fresh Orange Juice Freshly squeezed
  • 2 tbsp Fresh Lime Juice Fresh preferred
  • 2 tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar Bright acidity
  • 1 tbsp Honey Natural sweetness
  • 1 tsp Dijon Mustard Helps emulsify
  • 1 chipotle Chipotle Pepper in Adobo Seeded for milder heat
  • 1 tsp Adobo Sauce From the can
  • 1 clove Garlic Fresh
  • ½ tsp Ground Cumin
  • ½ tsp Smoked Paprika
  • ½ tsp Salt Adjust to taste
  • ¼ tsp Black Pepper Fresh ground
Oil
  • ½ cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil Slowly blend in

Equipment

  • 1 Blender Best for smooth texture
  • 1 Measuring Cups Accurate measurements
  • 1 Measuring spoons Seasonings
  • 1 Citrus Juicer Fresh juice
  • 1 Mixing bowl Optional
  • 1 Mason Jar Storage

Method
 

  1. Step 1

    Add orange juice, lime juice, vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, chipotle pepper, adobo sauce, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper to a blender.

  2. Step 2

    Blend until completely smooth.

  3. Step 3

    While blending on low speed, slowly drizzle in the olive oil.

  4. Step 4

    Continue blending until the dressing becomes creamy and fully emulsified.

  5. Step 5

    Taste and adjust sweetness, salt, or spice if desired.

  6. Step 6

    Transfer to a mason jar.

  7. Step 7

    Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

  8. Step 8

    Shake well before each use.

Video

Notes

Chef Tips

  • Fresh citrus juice produces the brightest flavor.
  • Blend the oil slowly for a silky texture.
  • Refrigerate before serving to allow the flavors to develop.
  • Add more chipotle pepper for extra heat.
  • For a thinner consistency, whisk in 1–2 tablespoons of water.

Storage

Store in an airtight jar in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.

Reheating

Not required.

Freezing

Not recommended.

Make Ahead

Prepare up to 5 days before serving.