Description
This easy citrus vinaigrette recipe is a bright, zesty, and simple dressing that combines fresh citrus juice with olive oil, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and garlic. Perfect for salads, marinades, and grilled vegetables, it adds a refreshing and healthy burst of flavor to any meal. Quick to prepare and customizable to taste, this vinaigrette is a versatile and light alternative to creamy dressings.
Ingredients
Scale
Vinaigrette Ingredients
- 1/4 cup fresh citrus juice (lemon, orange, or grapefruit)
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (for vegan version)
- 1 clove garlic, freshly minced
- Pinch of salt
- Freshly cracked black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Citrus Juice: Start by squeezing fresh citrus fruits to collect about 1/4 cup of juice. Using freshly squeezed juice is key for the vibrant, tangy flavor that store-bought juices can’t replicate.
- Whisk the Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the citrus juice, 1/4 cup of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, and 1 teaspoon of honey or your chosen sweetener. Whisk vigorously until the mixture emulsifies and becomes slightly creamy.
- Add Garlic and Season: Add the minced garlic, a pinch of salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Whisk again to incorporate, then taste and adjust seasoning as needed, balancing the acidity with sweetness.
- Store and Chill: Transfer your citrus vinaigrette to a jar or airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This resting time allows flavors to meld beautifully.
Notes
- Use fresh citrus juice for the best aroma and taste; avoid bottled juices whenever possible.
- Slowly whisk in the olive oil to create a stable emulsion that won’t separate quickly.
- Taste as you go and adjust acidity and sweetness gradually to suit your palate.
- Let ingredients come to room temperature before mixing to better blend flavors.
- If the dressing separates over time, give it a good shake before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
- Calories: 60
- Sugar: 1.5g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 5.5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4.8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0.1g
- Protein: 0.1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: citrus vinaigrette, citrus dressing, salad dressing, healthy vinaigrette, fresh citrus dressing, easy vinaigrette, vegan dressing