Lemon Vinaigrette is a zesty, refreshing, and healthy dressing that is perfect for brightening up salads, vegetables, or even as a marinade for meats. With just a few simple ingredients, this tangy vinaigrette is easy to whip up and adds a burst of flavor to any dish. The combination of fresh lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, and a touch of sweetness creates a well-balanced dressing that is both light and flavorful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Bright and Tangy Flavor

The fresh lemon juice gives this vinaigrette its tangy kick, while the Dijon mustard and honey balance out the acidity, creating a perfectly balanced dressing.

2. Easy and Quick to Make

This recipe comes together in just a few minutes with minimal ingredients. It’s perfect for busy nights or meal prep.

3. Healthy and Light

Made with olive oil and lemon, this vinaigrette is light, healthy, and full of healthy fats, making it a great option for anyone looking to add more nutrition to their meals.

4. Versatile

This vinaigrette can be used not only as a salad dressing but also as a marinade for chicken, fish, or vegetables, or even as a topping for roasted dishes.

5. Customizable

Feel free to adjust the sweetness, add herbs, or make it spicier with red pepper flakes to match your personal taste.

Ingredients

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

Variations

Herb Lemon Vinaigrette: Add 1 teaspoon of dried herbs like thyme, oregano, or basil to the vinaigrette for an herby flavor.
Garlic Lemon Vinaigrette: Add a clove of minced garlic for extra savory depth.
Spicy Lemon Vinaigrette: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give it a spicy kick.
Maple Lemon Vinaigrette: Swap the honey for maple syrup to give the vinaigrette a subtle sweetness and a deeper flavor.

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.

Step 2: Add Olive Oil

Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking vigorously to combine. This helps emulsify the dressing, creating a smooth, uniform consistency.

Step 3: Season

Add salt and pepper to taste, then whisk to combine. Taste the vinaigrette and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Step 4: Serve

Pour the vinaigrette over your favorite salad, roasted vegetables, or use as a marinade for chicken or fish.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Whisk Vigorously: Whisk the dressing well to ensure that the olive oil and lemon juice emulsify properly.
Use Fresh Lemon: For the best flavor, always use freshly squeezed lemon juice rather than bottled lemon juice.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the vinaigrette in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Shake or stir before using.
Adjust Sweetness: Depending on your preference, feel free to adjust the amount of honey or omit it entirely if you prefer a more tangy vinaigrette.

How to Serve

Lemon Vinaigrette is perfect for a wide range of dishes. Use it as a dressing for green salads, grain bowls, or roasted vegetables. It also works well as a marinade for chicken, fish, or shrimp. Drizzle it over grilled vegetables or even use it as a dipping sauce for bread.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store the vinaigrette in an airtight container or jar in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Shake or whisk the vinaigrette before using, as it may separate over time.

Freezing

It’s not recommended to freeze this dressing, as the olive oil and lemon juice may not maintain their texture and flavor after freezing.

Reheating

Since this is a cold dressing, there’s no need to reheat it. Simply shake or stir before using.

FAQs

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

While fresh lemon juice gives the best flavor, bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch. However, it may lack the bright, fresh taste of freshly squeezed lemons.

2. Can I make this dressing ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this vinaigrette ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 1 week. Just shake or stir it before using.

3. How do I make it sweeter?

If you prefer a sweeter vinaigrette, add more honey or substitute with maple syrup to taste.

4. Can I use a different type of oil?

Yes, you can substitute olive oil with avocado oil or another mild oil, but olive oil provides the best flavor for this recipe.

5. Can I add garlic to the dressing?

Yes, minced garlic is a great addition for extra flavor. Add about 1 clove of garlic to the vinaigrette for a subtle garlicky taste.

6. How can I make this dressing vegan?

To make it vegan, simply omit the honey or use maple syrup instead. The rest of the ingredients are already plant-based.

7. How long will this dressing last in the refrigerator?

This dressing will last for up to 1 week in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container.

8. Can I use this dressing as a marinade?

Yes, this vinaigrette works wonderfully as a marinade for chicken, fish, or vegetables.

9. How do I adjust the tanginess of the vinaigrette?

If you prefer a more tangy vinaigrette, increase the amount of lemon juice. If you want it milder, reduce the lemon juice and increase the olive oil.

10. Can I make this dressing without mustard?

Yes, you can omit the Dijon mustard if you prefer a simpler vinaigrette. The mustard helps with emulsification, but the vinaigrette will still taste good without it.

Conclusion

This Lemon Vinaigrette is the perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and savory flavors. It’s light, healthy, and can be made in just minutes with ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. Whether you’re tossing it with a salad, drizzling it over vegetables, or using it as a marinade, this simple dressing will add a fresh burst of flavor to your dishes. Give it a try and discover how easy and delicious homemade vinaigrette can be!