This is my go-to Lemon Vinaigrette recipe. I love it over any salad, from simple green salads, Cobb salad and even over roasted veggies. It’s bright, healthy, and can be made ahead.
Lemon Vinaigrette
I may be biased, but I think this is the best lemon vinaigrette recipe. It’s much better and cheaper than any dressing you’ll find at the supermarket and uses clean ingredients. Plus, it only takes a few minutes to make and lasts a week. It would be great on this Salad with Berries and Pecans, Arugula Salmon Salad, and Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad.
What You’ll Need
This simple lemon salad dressing calls for basic pantry staples. Scroll to the bottom for the exact measurements.
Ingredients:
- Lemons are the star of the show in this homemade vinaigrette. They make it light and bright.
- Water dilutes the lemon’s acidity and thins out the dressing without adding calories.
- Dijon Mustard for tang
- Garlic Cloves for depth of flavor
- Seasoning: Dried Italian seasoning and parsley, kosher salt, black pepper
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil provides heart-healthy fat, richness, and a smoother texture.
How to Make Lemon Vinaigrette
Make this easy homemade lemon vinaigrette in just 3 steps! Find the complete instructions in the recipe card below.
- Whisk: Combine all the ingredients except the oil in a bowl and whisk together.
- Add the Oil: Continue whisking as you slowly pour in the oil until it’s emulsified.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning to your liking.
Variations
- No lemons? Make a red wine or balsamic vinaigrette by swapping lemon juice with vinegar.
- Don’t like mustard? Skip it.
- Too acidic? Add a teaspoon of honey, maple syrup, or sugar to balance the acidity and tanginess.
- Herbs: Substitute any dried or fresh herbs. Dill, basil, and chives are good options. If you don’t have any herbs, it’s fine to omit them.
- No whisk? Add all the ingredients to a jar and shake. Alternatively, blend them in a blender or mini food processor until emulsified.
How to Serve Lemon Vinaigrette
You can use this lemon vinaigrette dressing on more than just salads!
Storage
Store lemon vinaigrette dressing in an airtight container for up to 1 week. The oil may solidify in the fridge, so let it come to room temperature and then shake or stir it before using.
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Lemon Vinaigrette Recipe
Ingredients
Instructions
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Whisk Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the lemon juice, water, Dijon, garlic, Italian seasoning, dried parsley, kosher salt and black pepper and whisk together.
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Add the oil: While whisking, drizzle the extra virgin olive oil. Continue to whisk until fully emulsified.
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Dress your salad or refrigerate: Taste and adjust seasoning to your liking.
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Store, covered in the refrigerator, for up to 1 week. Give it a good shake to reincorporate the oil.
Last Step:
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