Looking to elevate your salads, roasted vegetables, or grilled proteins with a burst of fresh, tangy flavor? This Lemon Vinaigrette Dressing is the answer. It’s simple, vibrant, and made with just a handful of pantry staples. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or dressing a salad on the fly, this recipe will quickly become a go-to.
Why You’ll Love This Dressing
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 5 minutes.
- Healthy & Light: Made with heart-healthy olive oil and fresh lemon juice.
- Versatile: Great on greens, grain bowls, seafood, and more.
- Customizable: Adjust sweetness, acidity, or herbs to your taste.
🥗 How to Make Lemon Vinaigrette Dressing
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (from about 2 lemons)
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (for flavor and emulsifying)
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup (optional, balances the acidity)
- 1 small garlic clove, finely minced (optional)
- Salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Squeeze the Lemons
- Cut lemons in half and juice them into a bowl or jar.
- Remove any seeds.
- Combine Base Ingredients
- In a bowl or small jar, add:
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp honey (if using)
- Minced garlic (if using)
- In a bowl or small jar, add:
- Add Olive Oil
- Slowly whisk in 1/2 cup olive oil while whisking constantly OR
- Add everything to a mason jar with a tight-fitting lid and shake well until combined.
- Season to Taste
- Add salt and pepper. Taste and adjust:
- More lemon juice for tang
- More honey for sweetness
- More oil for a milder flavor
- Add salt and pepper. Taste and adjust:
- Serve or Store
- Use immediately or refrigerate in a sealed container for up to 1 week.
- Shake or stir before each use, as the ingredients may separate.
Optional Add-Ins:
- Fresh herbs (parsley, basil, thyme)
- Lemon zest for extra zing
- Red pepper flakes for a little heat
Serving Suggestions
- Drizzle over a mixed greens salad with avocado and toasted nuts.
- Spoon onto grilled chicken or salmon.
- Toss with quinoa, chickpeas, and roasted veggies for a quick grain bowl.
Final Thoughts
Homemade lemon vinaigrette is proof that simple ingredients can pack a big punch. Once you make it, you might never go back to store-bought dressings again.