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Lemon Vinaigrette Salad Dressing

Lemon Vinaigrette Salad Dressing

  • Author: Lina
  • Total Time: 5 minutes
  • Yield: About 3/4 cup (4 servings) 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free, Vegan (if maple syrup or agave nectar used instead of honey)

Description

Lemon Vinaigrette Salad Dressing is a bright, tangy, and vibrant dressing made with fresh lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, and Dijon mustard. Easy to prepare in under five minutes, it enhances salads with a zesty citrus flavor balanced by subtle sweetness and savory garlic undertones. This versatile and healthy dressing pairs well with leafy greens, roasted vegetables, and grilled proteins, making every salad fresh, flavorful, and irresistible.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare Fresh Lemon Juice: Start by squeezing fresh lemons to extract about 1/4 cup of juice. Fresh juice brings the brightest, purest citrus flavor compared to bottled versions.
  2. Whisk the Mustard and Sweetener: In a small bowl, combine 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard and 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup. Whisk these together until smooth to create an emulsifying base that balances tang and sweetness.
  3. Add Lemon Juice and Garlic: Pour in the fresh lemon juice and add the minced garlic. Whisk vigorously to incorporate the garlic evenly so every bite gets a mild kick of flavor.
  4. Slowly Drizzle the Olive Oil: While continuously whisking, slowly add 1/2 cup of extra virgin olive oil. This gradual blending helps emulsify the mixture, lending the dressing a smooth and creamy consistency rather than separation.
  5. Season With Salt and Pepper: Finish by seasoning with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Adjust seasoning incrementally, tasting as you go to hit your perfect balance.

Notes

  • Use fresh lemons and good-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor clarity.
  • Whisk continuously while slowly adding olive oil to properly emulsify the dressing.
  • Taste and adjust acidity, sweetness, or seasoning before serving.
  • Make the dressing at least 30 minutes ahead to allow flavors to develop.
  • Store leftovers in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Shake well before use.
  • Do not freeze the dressing as olive oil texture changes when frozen.
  • Serve chilled or at room temperature for best taste and consistency.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: No Cooking / Whisking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
  • Calories: 80
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 55 mg
  • Fat: 9 g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.3 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7.7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 1.3 g
  • Fiber: 0.1 g
  • Protein: 0.1 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg

Keywords: lemon vinaigrette, salad dressing, lemon dressing, vinaigrette, healthy dressing, citrus dressing, easy salad dressing

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Find it online: https://dishesbylina.com/lemon-vinaigrette-salad-dressing/