Vegan Lemon Poppy Seed Dressing

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dressing is incredibly easy to make, requiring just a handful of wholesome ingredients. It’s vegan, gluten-free, and naturally sweetened, making it a great option for a variety of diets. The lemon flavor shines through without being overpowering, and the poppy seeds add a pleasant texture. It’s great for green salads, fruit salads, grain bowls, or even drizzled over roasted vegetables. Best of all, it comes together in less than 10 minutes.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Fresh lemon juice
• Lemon zest
• Olive oil or avocado oil
• Maple syrup
• Dijon mustard
• Apple cider vinegar
• Poppy seeds
• Salt
• Water (to thin, as needed)

Directions

1. In a small mixing bowl or jar, combine lemon juice, lemon zest, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar. Whisk or shake until fully blended.
2. Slowly whisk in the oil until the dressing is emulsified and smooth.
3. Stir in the poppy seeds and a pinch of salt to taste.
4. If the dressing is too thick, add a splash of water to reach your desired consistency.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Use immediately or refrigerate for later.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 3/4 to 1 cup of dressing, enough for 4–6 servings.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes

Variations

• Oil-Free Version: Replace oil with a blend of tahini and water for a creamy, oil-free dressing.
• Creamier Texture: Blend in a spoonful of vegan mayo or soaked cashews.
• Extra Tangy: Increase the lemon juice or add a splash of white wine vinegar.
• Sweeter Version: Add a touch more maple syrup for a dessert-style salad dressing.
• Herbal Twist: Add finely chopped fresh basil or mint for a garden-fresh flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store the dressing in an airtight container or sealed jar in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Shake or stir well before each use as natural separation may occur. No reheating is necessary.

FAQs

Is this dressing really vegan?

Yes, this recipe is 100% vegan and contains no dairy or animal products.

Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice is highly recommended for the best flavor, but bottled can be used in a pinch.

How long does it last in the fridge?

The dressing keeps well for up to 7 days in the refrigerator.

Can I make it oil-free?

Yes, substitute the oil with tahini or blended cashews and a bit of water for creaminess.

What kind of mustard works best?

Dijon mustard adds a nice tang, but stone-ground or yellow mustard can also be used.

Is this dressing good for fruit salads?

Absolutely. Its sweet and citrusy flavor pairs well with fruits like strawberries, blueberries, and apples.

Can I freeze this dressing?

Freezing is not recommended as the texture may change when thawed.

How can I thicken the dressing?

Reduce the amount of water or whisk in a spoonful of vegan mayo or ground flaxseed.

Can I use a different sweetener?

Yes, agave syrup or date syrup can be used instead of maple syrup.

Will kids like this dressing?

Yes, it’s lightly sweetened and tangy, which many kids enjoy, especially on fruity salads.

Conclusion

Vegan Lemon Poppy Seed Dressing is a refreshing, versatile addition to your salad rotation. It’s light, flavorful, and packed with bright lemony goodness, making it perfect for warm-weather meals or anytime you want to add a pop of citrus to your plate. Easy to make and even easier to love, this dressing is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Vegan Lemon Poppy Seed Dressing

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Vegan Lemon Poppy Seed Dressing is a light, tangy, and slightly sweet dressing made with fresh lemon juice, maple syrup, and crunchy poppy seeds. Perfect for salads, grain bowls, fruit salads, or drizzling over roasted vegetables.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 5 minutes
• Yield: About 3/4 to 1 cup (4–6 servings)
• Category: Dressing, Sauce
• Method: Whisking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegan

Ingredients

1. 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
2. 1 tsp lemon zest
3. 1/4 cup olive oil or avocado oil
4. 2 tbsp maple syrup
5. 1 tsp Dijon mustard
6. 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
7. 1 tbsp poppy seeds
8. 1/4 tsp salt (or to taste)
9. 2–3 tbsp water (to thin, as needed)

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Instructions

In a small mixing bowl or jar, whisk together lemon juice, lemon zest, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar until smooth.

1. Slowly whisk in the olive oil until the dressing is emulsified.
2. Stir in poppy seeds and salt.
3. If too thick, add water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Use immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.

Notes

1. For an oil-free version, replace oil with tahini and water for creaminess.
2. Add vegan mayo or cashews for a creamier texture.
3. Use more lemon juice or white wine vinegar for extra tang.
4. Sweeten with agave or date syrup instead of maple syrup if preferred.
5. Fresh herbs like basil or mint can be added for a refreshing twist.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2 tbsp
• Calories: 90
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 95mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg