5-Minute Harissa Vinaigrette Recipe

This harissa vinaigrette is a little sweet, a little spicy, and full of bold flavor. Made with olive oil, harissa paste, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, and a touch of sweetness, this easy homemade dressing adds big flavor to just about anything!

I love the balance of smoky heat from the harissa, the tang of lemon and vinegar, and just enough sweetness to balance out the flavors.

This simple harissa dressing is ready in a five minutes and relies on a short list of ingredients.

You can easily adjust the spice level to your liking, whether you prefer a mild, flavorful dressing or a bold dressing with a lot of kick.

Drizzle this hot harissa vinaigrette over roasted vegetables, leafy green salads, grain-free bowls, grilled chicken, or hearty salads.

It's also a wonderful way to add a spin on simple basics like my Keto Turkey Meatloaf, Roasted Delicata Squash, and meals like this Garlic Chicken and Steak Stir-Fry.

why you'll love this recipe

A good harissa sauce can make a meal, and that's exactly why I love this simple recipe.

Inspired by CAVA's honey harissa dressing, this version is more blood sugar-friendly and relies on simple ingredients and a few minutes of prep time. 

• Sweet, tangy, and spicy: Harissa adds smoky chili flavor, while lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, and a touch of low-carb sweetener balance the heat.
• Easy to customize: Use more or less harissa depending on your preferred spice level, choose your favorite sweetener, or make it tangier if you'd like!
• Simple ingredients: No complicated ingredients or special equipment needed, just a mason jar (or bowl and a whisk!). 
• Versatile: This dressing works beautifully on everything from leafy greens to pasta salad, roasted vegetables to grilled chicken and power bowls. 
• Low-carb friendly option: Use granulated monk fruit sweetener with allulose or liquid allulose in place of honey for a lower-sugar version that works for low-carb and keto lifestyles. 

the ingredients

• Extra virgin olive oil: The base of a good homemade salad dressing is a high-quality extra-virgin olive oil, and this one is no different. It's a healthy fat that adds a rich, fruity flavor. 
• Harissa paste: The star ingredient! Harissa is a North African chili paste made with red peppers, spices, and aromatics. It's popular in North African, Mediterranean, and Middle Eastern cuisines. Different brands vary in heat, so start with 2-3 tablespoons and adjust as needed. Many grocery stores carry harissa, including Trader Joe's, and you can also find harissa paste on Amazon.
• Granulated monk fruit sweetener with allulose: Adds a little sweetness to balance the acidity and spice. You can also use liquid allulose, sugar-free maple syrup, or pure honey, if you're okay with a little more natural sugar. 
• Honey (optional): A little extra honey adds depth and rounds out the heat. Feel free to omit it or use more of the low-glycemic sweetener if you prefer.
• Lemon juice: Adds fresh citrus flavor and brightness to the dressing.
• Apple cider vinegar: Gives the dressing its tangy vinaigrette flavor. 
• Seasonings: Salt enhances all the flavors, and garlic powder adds a subtle savory taste without overpowering the harissa. 

how to make harissa vinaigrette

Here's a look at the quick process, but check out the printable recipe card for all of the details.

1. Add the olive oil, harissa paste, sweetener, optional honey, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, salt, and garlic powder to a small bowl or jar.
2. Whisk until the dressing is well combined and emulsified, or secure the lid on your jar and shake vigorously.
3. Add more harissa for extra heat, a little more sweetener if you'd like a sweeter dressing, or additional salt to taste.

tips for the best results

• Adjust the heat: Harissa pastes vary quite a bit in spiciness. I recommend starting with 2 tablespoons and adding more to taste. I usually use 3-4 tablespoons for a flavorful, moderately spicy dressing (with Trader Joe's harissa) but there are some brands that are noticeably spicier. If you're worried about the heat level, start with 2 tablespoons and increase from there. 

• Balance the sweetness: The sweetener helps mellow the heat and acidity. Adjust the amount based on your harissa paste and personal preference. The combination of honey with a low-carb sweetener results in a subtle honey flavor but a lower-glycemic dressing.

• Shake before serving: Homemade vinaigrettes naturally separate as they sit. Give the dressing a good shake or whisk before using.

• Make it ahead: This dressing is easy to prepare in advance, making it perfect for meal prep and quick weeknight meals.

how to use harissa vinaigrette

There are so many options for enjoying this sweet and spicy dressing! Here are a few of my favorites ways:

• Roasted vegetables: Drizzle over roasted carrots, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, or delicata squash.
• Hearty salads: Toss with arugula, mixed greens, cucumber, tomatoes, feta, and grilled chicken.
• Chicken and beef bowls: Use as a finishing drizzle over grilled chicken, tender beef, or favorites like meatloaf. 
• Grilled meats: Brush over grilled chicken, steak, or seafood just before serving for a punch of flavor.

storage

Store leftover harissa vinaigrette in an airtight container (like a jar with a lid) in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Like other salad dressings, the olive oil may solidify slightly when chilled, which is completely normal. Let the dressing sit at room temperature for a few minutes, then shake or whisk well before serving.

frequently asked questions

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