Honey Lime Vinaigrette

I dare you to read the ingredients on your favorite vinaigrette.  Kinda gross, isn't it.  Vinaigrettes are so simple - oil and vinegar, and if you're really trying to impress someone special you can add some fresh herbs.  That's it!  Yet we insist on having a special bottle of salad dressing to suit every taste and flavor combination imaginable.  I am embarrassed to admit how many bottles of salad dressing I currently have in my refrigerator, usually because it sounded great in the store only to be a disappointment at the dinner table.  So I propose a better solution: just make your own.

Here's the basic formula:  1 part acid + 1 part oil + optional fancy ingredient(s) = fresh homemade vinaigrette

Since you probably won't trust yourself to create something unique and brilliant without following a recipe, here's a simple recipe I enjoy at home to get your feet wet.  You can also substitute fresh lemon for the lime for a change of pace.  Enjoy!

Honey Lime Vinaigrette, Serves 1-2
Juice from one fresh lime
1 T. canola oil (sub olive oil if you prefer)
1 T. honey
Lime zest
Tiny pinch of sea salt

Place ingredients in a tightly sealed container and shake well to combine.  Let stand 10 minutes before serving for flavors to blend, and shake again just before dressing salad.