Zesty Lemon Vinaigrette is the perfect dressing to elevate your salads, roasted vegetables, or even grilled proteins. Made with fresh lemon juice, olive oil, and a touch of honey, this tangy and versatile vinaigrette strikes a beautiful balance between brightness and richness. Whether you’re looking for a healthier alternative to store-bought dressings or want a quick flavor boost, this recipe is a must-have in your kitchen arsenal. Best of all, it comes together in under 5 minutes with simple ingredients you likely already have on hand!
Ingredients
- ⅓ cup fresh lemon juice (about 2–3 lemons)
- ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
- Optional: 1 tsp lemon zest for extra tanginess
Preparation
- Prepare the Lemon Base:
- Juice the lemons to yield about ⅓ cup of fresh lemon juice. For added flavor, zest one of the lemons and set aside.
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a small bowl or a jar with a lid, whisk together the lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Emulsify with Olive Oil:
- Gradually drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously, or shake the jar vigorously until the mixture is fully emulsified.
- Adjust Seasoning:
- Taste the vinaigrette and adjust salt, pepper, or sweetness as needed.
- Serve or Store:
- Use immediately or transfer to a jar and store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Shake well before each use.
Variations
- Herb-Infused Lemon Vinaigrette: Add a teaspoon of finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or thyme for an herby twist.
- Spicy Lemon Vinaigrette: Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
- Creamy Lemon Vinaigrette: Blend in 1–2 tablespoons of Greek yogurt or mayonnaise for a creamy consistency.
- Citrus Blend Vinaigrette: Replace half of the lemon juice with orange or lime juice for a more complex citrus flavor.
Cooking Notes
- Balance the Acidity: If the vinaigrette feels too tangy, add a splash more honey or olive oil to mellow the acidity.
- Texture Tip: For a smoother vinaigrette, use a blender to fully emulsify the ingredients.
- Storage: Store in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 7 days. If the olive oil solidifies when chilled, let the dressing sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes and shake before use.
Serving Suggestions
- Salads: Drizzle over a fresh garden salad, arugula with shaved Parmesan, or a Greek-inspired salad with cucumbers and feta.
- Vegetables: Toss with roasted asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or grilled zucchini.
- Proteins: Use as a marinade or finishing sauce for grilled chicken, fish, or shrimp.
- Grains: Add to quinoa, farro, or couscous for a burst of brightness.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Lemon Juice: Bottled juice won’t deliver the same vibrant flavor.
- Customizable Sweetness: Adjust the honey or substitute with agave or sugar-free sweeteners based on your dietary needs.
- Emulsify Thoroughly: To prevent separation, whisk the olive oil slowly or use an immersion blender for a silky finish.
Prep Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
Nutritional Information (per tablespoon):
- Calories: 90
- Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Protein: 0g
- Sodium: 40mg
- Sugar: 0.5g
FAQs
Can I use this vinaigrette as a marinade?
A: Absolutely! Its tangy and citrusy profile makes it perfect for marinating chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
How long can I store lemon vinaigrette?
A: It stays fresh for up to one week in the refrigerator. Shake well before using as it may separate over time.
Can I make it oil-free?
A: Yes! Replace the olive oil with an equal amount of vegetable broth or water for a lighter, oil-free version.
Conclusion
Zesty Lemon Vinaigrette is a simple yet flavorful addition to any meal. Whether you’re tossing it with greens, drizzling it over grilled vegetables, or using it as a marinade, its fresh and tangy flavor is sure to impress. With its quick preparation and endless versatility, this homemade dressing will become a staple in your recipe collection.