There’s something so refreshing about a bright, zesty lemon vinaigrette! It’s like a burst of sunshine for your salads, transforming even the simplest greens into something special. I absolutely love how this vinaigrette enhances the flavor of fresh vegetables, and it’s a go-to for quick, healthy meals. You won’t believe how easy it is to whip up—just a few ingredients and a little whisking, and you’re ready to elevate your lunch or dinner. Whether you’re tossing it over a classic garden salad or drizzling it on roasted veggies, this lemon vinaigrette adds that perfect tangy kick. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again!
Ingredients List
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice – the star of the show, bright and tangy!
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil – for that rich, smooth texture and healthy fats.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard – adds a lovely depth and a hint of spice.
- 1 teaspoon honey – just a touch for sweetness; feel free to adjust to your taste!
- Salt to taste – don’t skip it; it really brings out the flavors!
- Pepper to taste – freshly cracked is best for that extra zing!
How to Prepare Lemon Vinaigrette Instructions
- Start by measuring out 1/4 cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice. I love using a juicer for this part—it gets every last drop out! Pour the lemon juice into a medium bowl.
- Next, add 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard and 1 teaspoon of honey to the bowl. This combination not only brings flavor but also helps to balance the acidity of the lemon. Whisk everything together until it’s well combined. You want that mustard and honey fully incorporated!
- Now comes the fun part: emulsifying! Slowly drizzle in 1/2 cup of extra virgin olive oil while whisking continuously. This is crucial because it helps to create that beautiful creamy texture we all love in a vinaigrette. Keep whisking until the mixture thickens slightly and looks glossy.
- Finally, season with salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste. Give it another quick whisk to blend everything together. And voilà! You’ve got a delicious lemon vinaigrette ready to drizzle over your favorite salad or store in the fridge for later!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s incredibly quick to make—just 5 minutes and you’re done!
- This lemon vinaigrette brightens up any dish with its tangy flavor.
- Made with simple, healthy ingredients that you probably already have on hand.
- Perfect for meal prep—make a batch and enjoy it all week!
- Totally customizable; add your favorite herbs or tweak the sweetness.
- It’s vegan and guilt-free, making it a great choice for everyone!
Tips for Success
To get your lemon vinaigrette just right, focus on the balance of flavors. If you find it too tangy, a little extra honey can work wonders! Always taste as you go; it’s the best way to ensure it’s to your liking. For storage, keep it in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to a week. Just remember to give it a good shake before using, as it may separate. If you want to jazz it up, adding fresh herbs like parsley or basil just before serving can elevate the flavor even more. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Variations of Lemon Vinaigrette
One of the best things about this lemon vinaigrette is how easy it is to switch things up! You can experiment with different types of vinegar, like balsamic or apple cider, for a unique twist. Adding fresh herbs like basil, dill, or oregano not only boosts flavor but also gives it a lovely fresh aroma. If you’re a garlic lover, try finely minced garlic or a touch of garlic powder for an extra kick. Want a little heat? A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a delightful kick! Get creative and make this vinaigrette your own—there are endless possibilities!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your lemon vinaigrette is super easy! Just pour any leftovers into a sealed jar or container and pop it in the fridge. It’ll keep fresh for up to a week, which is perfect for meal prep. Just remember, since it’s made with fresh ingredients, it might separate a bit as it sits. No worries! Just give it a good shake before using to bring everything back together. If you notice it thickening, you can whisk in a tiny bit of water or more olive oil to loosen it up. Enjoy that tangy goodness all week long!
Nutritional Information Section
This lemon vinaigrette is not just delicious, but it’s also a healthy choice! Per serving (about 2 tablespoons), you can expect approximately 120 calories, 14g of fat (with 2g saturated fat), and just 1g of carbohydrates. It’s free of cholesterol and sodium, making it a great addition to any meal. Keep in mind that these values are estimates, so feel free to adjust as needed based on your specific ingredients!
FAQ Section
Can I make lemon vinaigrette ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, I recommend making it in advance. It allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just store it in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to a week. Just remember to give it a good shake before using!
What salads pair well with lemon vinaigrette?
Oh, so many! I love it drizzled over a classic mixed green salad with cherry tomatoes and cucumbers. It also complements roasted vegetable salads beautifully or even a simple quinoa salad. The tangy flavor really brightens up anything fresh!
Can I add other ingredients to the vinaigrette?
Absolutely! This lemon vinaigrette is super versatile. You can add herbs like basil or dill for an extra burst of flavor. If you want a little kick, try adding red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce. Don’t be shy—get creative!
How do I know if my vinaigrette is balanced?
Tasting as you go is key! If it’s too tangy, add a bit more honey. If it’s too sweet, a splash of lemon juice can help. The goal is to have a nice balance of acidity and sweetness that makes your taste buds dance!
Is this lemon vinaigrette suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, indeed! This recipe is completely vegan, making it perfect for anyone following a plant-based lifestyle. Enjoy the zesty goodness without any worries!
For more information on the health benefits of olive oil, check out this Healthline article.
For tips on how to make the best salad dressings, visit Food Network.
For a deeper dive into the nutritional benefits of lemon, see this Medical News Today article.
Print
Lemon Vinaigrette: 5-Minute Recipe for Tangy Happiness
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 cup 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A simple and tangy lemon vinaigrette for salads.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and honey.
- Slowly drizzle in olive oil while whisking to emulsify.
- Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve over your favorite salad or store in the fridge.
Notes
- Shake well before using if stored.
- Can be adjusted with more honey for sweetness.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dressings
- Method: Whisking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: lemon vinaigrette, salad dressing, healthy dressing