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citrus vinaigrette Recipe

citrus vinaigrette Recipe


  • Author: Lina
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: About 1/2 cup (4 servings) 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free, Vegan (if maple syrup is used instead of honey)

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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