Name: Lemon Vinaigrette
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Ingredients: 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice; ⅓ cup honey (use a bit more if you like it sweeter); 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard; ⅔ cup extra virgin olive oil (use a bit more if you like a more mellow flavor); 3 tablespoons minced shallot; 1 tablespoon minced fresh thyme leaves; ½ tablespoon minced fresh rosemary leaves; ½ teaspoon kosher salt; ⅛ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Whenever I make a salad, the first thing that comes to mind is how to elevate those fresh greens with a vibrant dressing. That’s where Lemon Vinaigrette comes in! This dressing is a staple in my kitchen, bringing a bright, zesty flavor that transforms even the simplest of salads into something spectacular. I remember the first time I whisked together this tangy concoction; I was pleasantly surprised by how just a few ingredients could create such a delightful burst of flavor. With the refreshing taste of freshly squeezed lemon juice and the perfect balance of sweetness from honey, it instantly became my go-to dressing. Whether I’m preparing a light lunch or a fancy dinner, Lemon Vinaigrette adds a touch of gourmet flair.

It’s not just for salads either! I’ve drizzled it over grilled vegetables, used it as a marinade for chicken, and even enjoyed it with roasted potatoes. The versatility is endless! Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make at home; all you need is a jar and a good shake to combine. This dressing comes together in mere minutes, and the satisfaction of knowing I made it from scratch is unbeatable. It’s light, refreshing, and can be adapted to suit any meal, making it a fantastic addition to your culinary repertoire.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
10 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
0 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
120 kcal

Protein:
0 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
0 g

Tools Used:
Kitchen Knife, Cutting Board

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Vinaigrette

It’s All About Fresh Ingredients

One of the things I love most about this Lemon Vinaigrette is how it highlights fresh ingredients. The use of freshly squeezed lemon juice makes all the difference in flavor, providing a bright acidity that complements salads, grains, and proteins alike. There’s just something about fresh that elevates any dish!

Versatility in Every Drop

This vinaigrette is not limited to just salads. I’ve used it to dress roasted vegetables, as a marinade for meats, and even as a dipping sauce for appetizers. Its versatility means you can use it in a myriad of ways, making it a must-have recipe!

Quick and Simple to Prepare

Whipping up this Lemon Vinaigrette is an absolute breeze. With just a few ingredients and a jar, you can have a homemade dressing ready in no time at all. No fancy equipment necessary, just a good shake to combine!

Customize to Your Taste

What I love most is the ability to customize it. Want it a bit sweeter? Add more honey. Prefer it tangier? A splash more lemon juice works wonders. This dressing can be tailored to fit your personal taste perfectly!

Health Benefits Galore

This vinaigrette is not only delicious but also healthy! Made with wholesome ingredients like extra virgin olive oil and fresh herbs, it provides good fats and antioxidants, making it a nutritious choice.

What to Buy for Lemon Vinaigrette

When it comes to making a great Lemon Vinaigrette, the quality of your ingredients matters. Each element plays a crucial role in creating a harmonious balance of flavors. The star here is obviously the lemon juice, but the olive oil and honey add depth and sweetness that enhance the overall taste. Let’s explore the key players in this delightful dressing.

1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice – The tangy base that brightens up any dish.
⅓ cup honey – A touch of sweetness to balance the acidity.
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard – Adds a hint of spice and depth.
⅔ cup extra virgin olive oil – Rich in flavor and healthy fats.
3 tablespoons minced shallot – Provides a mild onion flavor without overpowering.
1 tablespoon minced fresh thyme leaves – A fragrant herb that complements the lemon.
½ tablespoon minced fresh rosemary leaves – Adds an earthy note.
½ teaspoon kosher salt – Enhances the flavors of the ingredients.
⅛ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper – A dash of spice to round it out.

How to Assemble Lemon Vinaigrette

Making your own Lemon Vinaigrette is not only satisfying but also incredibly rewarding. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a fresh dressing that will elevate your meals. Let’s get started!

Gather all your ingredients: freshly squeezed lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, extra virgin olive oil, minced shallot, minced fresh thyme, minced fresh rosemary, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
Pour the lemon juice, honey, and Dijon mustard into a clean jar. These ingredients will form the flavorful base of your Lemon Vinaigrette.
Add the extra virgin olive oil to the jar. This will give your dressing a creamy texture and rich flavor.
Next, add the minced shallot, minced fresh thyme, minced fresh rosemary, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. These ingredients will enhance the taste and aroma of your vinaigrette.
Seal the jar tightly with a lid. This is crucial for the next step.
Shake the jar vigorously for about 20 to 30 seconds. You want to ensure that all the ingredients are well combined and emulsified.
After shaking, taste your vinaigrette. You may want to adjust the sweetness by adding more honey or the acidity by adding more lemon juice. This step is all about customizing the flavor to your liking!
Once you’re satisfied with the flavor, transfer the vinaigrette to a serving container or leave it in the jar for easy storage.
Your Lemon Vinaigrette is best served fresh, but it can be stored in the fridge for up to one week. Just remember that the olive oil may solidify when cold. Let it sit out for a bit before using.
Enjoy this delightful dressing over salads, grilled veggies, or as a marinade for your favorite proteins!

Things Worth Knowing

Shake Well: Always shake your vinaigrette before using it as the ingredients can separate when sitting.
Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week for optimal freshness.
Adjusting Flavor: Feel free to tweak the sweetness and acidity according to your palate. You can add more honey or lemon juice as needed.
Using Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs can significantly enhance the flavor, so don’t skip the thyme and rosemary.

How to Switch It Up

While the classic Lemon Vinaigrette is wonderful as is, there are many ways to put your own twist on it. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Add Fresh Garlic: For an extra kick, try adding a clove of minced fresh garlic to your vinaigrette.
Spice It Up: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicy version.
Use Different Citrus: Experiment by using a mix of citrus juices, such as lime or orange, for a unique flavor.
Herb Variations: Swap out thyme and rosemary for other herbs like parsley or basil for a new taste.
Vinegar Swap: If you prefer a more tangy flavor, consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar.
Sweetener Alternatives: Try using maple syrup or agave nectar instead of honey for a different sweetness profile.
Make It Creamy: For a creamy version, whisk in a tablespoon of plain yogurt or sour cream.

What Goes Well With This Lemon Vinaigrette

Wondering how to serve your Lemon Vinaigrette? Here are some delicious pairings and ideas to make the most of this delightful dressing:

Fresh Salads: Perfect as a dressing for mixed green salads, or try it over a spinach salad with nuts and berries.
Grilled Vegetables: Drizzle over grilled zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus for a summer feast.
Roasted Potatoes: Toss roasted potatoes in Lemon Vinaigrette for a refreshing side dish.
Grain Bowls: Use it to dress up quinoa or farro bowls filled with vegetables and proteins.
Marinade: This vinaigrette works great as a marinade for chicken or fish, imparting a lovely flavor.
Picnics: A fantastic addition to any picnic spread, adding brightness to your meal.
Seasonal Pairings: Use this dressing during the spring and summer when fresh produce is at its peak!

FAQ

While you can use bottled lemon juice in a pinch, I highly recommend using freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor in your Lemon Vinaigrette. Fresh juice has a brightness and acidity that bottled juice often lacks. If you do use bottled, opt for a high-quality brand to get as close to fresh as possible.

You can store your Lemon Vinaigrette in the fridge for up to one week. Just make sure it’s in an airtight container. Remember that the olive oil may solidify a bit when cold, so let it sit out at room temperature briefly before using it again.

Absolutely! In fact, making your Lemon Vinaigrette ahead of time can enhance the flavors as they meld together. Just prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator. It’s one less thing to worry about when you’re ready to enjoy your meal!

Yes, if you use a plant-based sweetener instead of honey, your Lemon Vinaigrette can easily be made vegan. You might choose agave nectar or maple syrup for a sweet touch that fits into a vegan diet.

Conclusion

The Lemon Vinaigrette is not just a dressing; it’s a way to brighten up any dish and infuse it with flavor. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep on hand for all your meals. I encourage you to try making this dressing at home; once you do, you won’t want to go back to store-bought versions. Enjoy the fresh, zesty taste that only a homemade vinaigrette can provide!