Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fresh, vibrant lemon flavor
- Quick and easy to make
- Uses simple pantry ingredients
- Light and versatile for many dishes
- Naturally dairy-free and gluten-free
- Easily customizable to your taste
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
fresh lemon juice
extra virgin olive oil
Dijon mustard
honey
garlic
salt
black pepper
Directions
- In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and honey until combined.
- Add the minced garlic, salt, and black pepper.
- Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously to emulsify the dressing.
- Continue whisking until smooth and slightly thickened.
- Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more lemon juice for tang or honey for sweetness if needed.
- Serve immediately or transfer to a jar and refrigerate. Shake well before each use.
Servings and timing
Servings: Makes about 3/4 cup (approximately 6 servings)
Prep time: 5 minutes
Total time: 5 minutes
Variations
- Herb Lemon Vinaigrette: Add chopped fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or thyme.
- Creamy Version: Whisk in a tablespoon of Greek yogurt for a thicker texture.
- Maple Twist: Replace honey with maple syrup for a slightly deeper sweetness.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Shallot Lemon Vinaigrette: Substitute minced shallot for garlic for a milder flavor.
Storage/Reheating
Store lemon vinaigrette in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Olive oil may solidify slightly when chilled; allow the dressing to sit at room temperature for a few minutes and shake well before serving.
This dressing does not require reheating. Simply whisk or shake to recombine before use.
FAQs
How long does homemade lemon vinaigrette last?
It stays fresh for up to 1 week when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Can I make lemon vinaigrette without mustard?
Yes, but Dijon mustard helps emulsify the dressing and adds depth of flavor.
What is the best oil for lemon vinaigrette?
Extra virgin olive oil is preferred for its rich flavor, but avocado oil can also be used.
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the brightest flavor, but bottled can be used in a pinch.
Why is my vinaigrette separating?
Oil and lemon juice naturally separate. Shake or whisk well before serving.
Can I freeze lemon vinaigrette?
Freezing is not recommended, as it may affect the texture and flavor.
Is lemon vinaigrette healthy?
It is generally considered a light and wholesome dressing made with simple ingredients.
What dishes pair well with lemon vinaigrette?
It works beautifully on green salads, roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, seafood, and grain bowls.
How can I make it sweeter?
Add a bit more honey or maple syrup to balance the acidity.
Can I make this dressing vegan?
Yes, simply replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.
Conclusion
Lemon vinaigrette is a fresh and flavorful dressing that adds brightness to a wide range of dishes. With just a handful of simple ingredients and a few minutes of preparation, you can create a homemade dressing that tastes far better than store-bought versions. Keep this versatile recipe on hand to enhance salads, vegetables, and more with a burst of citrus flavor.
PrintLemon Vinaigrette
A bright and zesty lemon vinaigrette made with fresh lemon juice, olive oil, and Dijon mustard, perfect for salads, vegetables, and grilled proteins.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings (about 3/4 cup)
- Category: Salad Dressing
- Method: Whisking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and honey until combined.
- Add the minced garlic, salt, and black pepper.
- Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously to emulsify the dressing.
- Continue whisking until smooth and slightly thickened.
- Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more lemon juice for tang or honey for sweetness if needed.
- Serve immediately or transfer to a jar and refrigerate. Shake well before each use.
Notes
- Shake or whisk well before each use as natural separation may occur.
- If refrigerated, allow the dressing to sit at room temperature for a few minutes if the olive oil solidifies.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- For a vegan version, replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.
- Add fresh herbs for additional flavor variation.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 95 mg
- Fat: 13 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 0 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
