A simple, tangy, and refreshing Lemon Vinaigrette Dressing is the perfect addition to elevate any salad or dish. This light and zesty dressing blends the brightness of fresh lemon juice with the richness of olive oil and a subtle hint of mustard. It’s incredibly easy to make and comes together in just a few minutes. Plus, it’s versatile and can be used on everything from fresh greens to roasted vegetables or even as a marinade for chicken or seafood.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Bright and Refreshing Flavor

The combination of fresh lemon juice and zest gives this vinaigrette a vibrant and tangy flavor that adds a refreshing kick to your salads and dishes.

2. Simple and Quick

This dressing comes together in just a few minutes with minimal ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.

3. Healthy and Light

Made with olive oil and fresh lemon, this dressing is light and healthy, providing a clean, citrusy taste without the heaviness of creamy dressings.

4. Versatile

This Lemon Vinaigrette can be used in a variety of ways – as a salad dressing, a marinade, or a drizzle over roasted vegetables and grilled proteins.

5. Customizable

Feel free to adjust the amount of lemon or mustard to suit your taste, or even add a touch of honey for a slightly sweeter version.

Ingredients

3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional, but adds extra flavor)
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon honey (optional, for sweetness)
Salt and pepper, to taste

Variations

Garlic Lemon Vinaigrette: Add 1 minced garlic clove for an extra burst of flavor.
Herb Lemon Vinaigrette: Mix in a teaspoon of fresh or dried herbs such as basil, thyme, or oregano for added depth.
Spicy Lemon Vinaigrette: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
Maple Lemon Vinaigrette: Swap honey for maple syrup to give the dressing a unique sweetness.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Combine the Ingredients

In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest (if using), Dijon mustard, and honey (if using) until smooth and combined.

Step 2: Add the Olive Oil

Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously to emulsify the dressing. This will create a smooth, slightly thickened vinaigrette.

Step 3: Season

Taste the vinaigrette and season with salt and pepper to taste. Whisk again to ensure everything is evenly mixed.

Step 4: Serve

Pour the vinaigrette over your favorite salad, roasted vegetables, or grilled meats. It’s also great as a marinade for chicken or fish.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Whisk Vigorously: When adding the olive oil, make sure to whisk vigorously to create an emulsion, which will help the dressing stay well-mixed.
Use Fresh Lemon: Freshly squeezed lemon juice always provides the best flavor, so try to avoid bottled lemon juice.
Make It Ahead: This dressing can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Just give it a good shake or stir before using.
Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter vinaigrette, add a little more honey or maple syrup to balance out the tanginess of the lemon.

How to Serve

Lemon Vinaigrette is incredibly versatile. Use it as a salad dressing, drizzle it over roasted vegetables, or use it to marinate chicken, fish, or shrimp. It’s also excellent on grain bowls, avocado toast, or as a dipping sauce for bread.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Lemon Vinaigrette in an airtight container or jar in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Be sure to shake or whisk it before using, as the oil and lemon may separate.

Freezing

Since this dressing is oil-based, it’s not ideal for freezing as it may change in texture. It’s best to store and use it within a week.

Reheating

This dressing is served cold, so there’s no need to reheat it. Just give it a good shake or stir before using.

FAQs

1. Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh lemons?

Fresh lemon juice is always best for flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, bottled lemon juice will work as a substitute.

2. Can I make this vinaigrette without mustard?

Yes, the mustard helps emulsify the dressing and adds flavor, but you can omit it if you prefer a simpler dressing. You could also try substituting with a bit of mayo.

3. Can I make a larger batch?

Absolutely! Just scale up the ingredients proportionally. The vinaigrette will last for up to a week in the refrigerator.

4. Can I use a different oil instead of olive oil?

You can use other oils like avocado oil or grapeseed oil, but olive oil provides the best flavor and health benefits.

5. How do I make it sweeter?

To sweeten the vinaigrette, add more honey or use maple syrup in place of honey for a different flavor profile.

6. Can I use this vinaigrette as a marinade?

Yes! This vinaigrette makes a great marinade for chicken, fish, or vegetables.

7. Can I add garlic to this dressing?

Yes, minced garlic or garlic powder can be added to enhance the flavor of the vinaigrette.

8. How long can I store this dressing?

This vinaigrette can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

9. Can I use balsamic vinegar instead of lemon juice?

For a different flavor profile, you can substitute balsamic vinegar for the lemon juice. However, the flavor will be more robust and less tangy.

10. Can I make this dressing dairy-free?

Yes, this dressing is naturally dairy-free. Just make sure that the Dijon mustard you use is free from dairy ingredients.

Conclusion

Lemon Vinaigrette is a versatile, fresh, and tangy dressing that adds a burst of flavor to any dish. Whether you’re using it for salads, vegetables, or marinades, its bright citrusy notes will enhance the taste of your meals. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a homemade vinaigrette that’s much more delicious than store-bought versions. Give it a try, and you’ll have a new favorite dressing in your repertoire!