Name: Lemon Vinaigrette Dressing
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: PT-483933H39M54S
Total time: 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 1-2 lemons); 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional for extra flavor); 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness); Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 small garlic clove, minced (optional); 1 teaspoon fresh herbs (optional: thyme, oregano, or parsley)

Jump to Recipe

Lemon vinaigrette dressing is a refreshing and tangy dressing that adds a burst of flavor to any salad, roasted vegetables, or even as a marinade for grilled meats. With its simple ingredients—lemon juice, olive oil, and a few seasonings—this vinaigrette comes together in minutes and elevates the taste of your dishes. The bright citrusy flavor of lemon balances beautifully with the richness of olive oil, creating a light yet flavorful dressing that complements both fresh greens and heartier salads. Whether you’re looking to dress a simple mixed salad, drizzle over steamed veggies, or even toss with grains like quinoa or couscous, this lemon vinaigrette is the perfect versatile addition to your culinary repertoire.

In addition to being quick and easy to make, lemon vinaigrette is also a healthier alternative to many store-bought dressings that are often laden with preservatives and added sugars. This homemade version lets you control the ingredients, ensuring that you get a fresh, clean taste with every bite. Plus, it can be stored in the fridge for a few days, making it a great option for meal prep or making a large batch to have on hand for multiple meals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Bright and Zesty Flavor

The fresh lemon juice adds a tangy, vibrant flavor that brightens up any dish, making it feel fresh and lively.

2. Simple and Quick to Make

With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, this lemon vinaigrette comes together quickly, making it perfect for last-minute meals.

3. Healthy and Light

Made with olive oil and lemon juice, this dressing is a healthier option compared to store-bought varieties, offering a light and refreshing taste without excess sugar or additives.

4. Versatile

This vinaigrette can be used on salads, vegetables, grains, and even as a marinade for meats, making it one of the most versatile dressings you can make.

5. Customizable

You can easily tweak the flavor by adding your favorite herbs, spices, or sweeteners, making it adaptable to suit any dish or personal preference.

Ingredients

Fresh lemon juice
Olive oil
Dijon mustard
Honey or maple syrup (optional)
Salt
Black pepper
Fresh herbs (optional: such as parsley, basil, or thyme)

Variations

Herbed Lemon Vinaigrette: Add fresh or dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley for added flavor.
Garlic Lemon Vinaigrette: Mince a garlic clove and add it to the dressing for a subtle yet bold garlic flavor.
Spicy Lemon Vinaigrette: For a little heat, add red pepper flakes or a small amount of sriracha sauce to the vinaigrette.
Sweet Lemon Vinaigrette: Increase the amount of honey or maple syrup for a sweeter dressing that balances the acidity of the lemon.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Combine the Ingredients

In a small bowl or jar, combine the fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey (if using), salt, and black pepper.

Step 2: Add the Olive Oil

Slowly whisk in the olive oil, or if using a jar, seal the lid and shake it vigorously until the dressing is well combined and emulsified.

Step 3: Taste and Adjust

Taste the vinaigrette and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can add more lemon juice for extra tang, more honey for sweetness, or more mustard for an added depth of flavor.

Step 4: Store and Serve

Once the vinaigrette is to your liking, serve it immediately on your salad or dish, or store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Be sure to shake or whisk again before serving as the ingredients may separate over time.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Emulsifying Tip: For a smoother vinaigrette, use a blender or immersion blender to combine the ingredients. This will help create a stable emulsion that won’t separate easily.
Fresh Lemon Juice: Always use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor. Bottled lemon juice tends to be less vibrant and can have added preservatives.
Adjust to Taste: The beauty of a vinaigrette is that it can be adjusted to suit your taste. Experiment with the sweetness or acidity levels to find your perfect balance.

How to Serve

Lemon vinaigrette is incredibly versatile and can be used in various ways:

On Salads: Drizzle over mixed greens, arugula, spinach, or even a grain-based salad like quinoa or couscous.
On Vegetables: Toss roasted or steamed vegetables with the vinaigrette for a light, flavorful dressing.
As a Marinade: Use this dressing as a marinade for grilled chicken, fish, or even tofu.
On Bowls: Add a spoonful of vinaigrette over Buddha bowls or grain bowls to tie all the ingredients together with a burst of flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover lemon vinaigrette in an airtight container or jar in the fridge for up to 5 days. The dressing may separate over time, so be sure to shake or stir it before using again.

Freezing

Vinaigrettes do not freeze well, as the oil may separate upon thawing. It’s best to make smaller batches and store them in the fridge to keep the dressing fresh.

Reheating

There’s no need to reheat vinaigrette, as it’s typically served chilled or at room temperature. Just shake or stir it before use.

FAQs

1. Can I make lemon vinaigrette without mustard?

Yes, you can omit the mustard, but it helps with emulsifying the oil and adds a slight tang. If you prefer, you can substitute with a little bit of tahini or yogurt.

2. Can I make this vinaigrette with lime instead of lemon?

Absolutely! Lime can be substituted for lemon to create a different citrusy flavor profile that works just as well.

3. Can I use a different type of oil?

Yes, you can use other oils such as avocado oil or grapeseed oil, but olive oil provides the best flavor and richness for this vinaigrette.

4. How can I make the vinaigrette thicker?

If you prefer a thicker vinaigrette, you can add a little more Dijon mustard or a tablespoon of Greek yogurt to create a creamier consistency.

5. Can I make this dressing without honey?

Yes, you can leave out the honey or maple syrup if you prefer a more savory vinaigrette, or you can substitute with a pinch of sugar or agave syrup.

6. How long does lemon vinaigrette last?

Lemon vinaigrette lasts up to 5 days when stored in the fridge in an airtight container. Be sure to shake or whisk it before using.

7. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use dried herbs in place of fresh. Use about 1/3 of the amount called for in the recipe for fresh herbs.

8. Is lemon vinaigrette vegan?

Yes, as long as you use plant-based sweeteners like maple syrup, the vinaigrette is vegan-friendly.

9. Can I use bottled lemon juice?

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

10. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can easily double or triple the recipe to make a larger batch. Just make sure to store extra vinaigrette in the fridge for later use.

Conclusion

Lemon vinaigrette dressing is a simple, tangy, and refreshing way to enhance your meals. With its bright citrus flavor and smooth, olive oil base, it’s perfect for a wide variety of dishes, from salads to roasted vegetables and grilled meats. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make and can be adjusted to suit your personal taste preferences. Whether you’re looking for a healthy dressing for your greens or a versatile marinade for meats, this lemon vinaigrette is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So, give it a try today, and enjoy the burst of flavor it brings to your meals!