Introduction
Brightening up your salads doesn’t have to mean drowning them in heavy, calorie-laden dressings. A tangy Lemon Vinaigrette Dressing offers a refreshing alternative, balancing acidity with subtle sweetness. This Healthy salad dressing isn’t just versatile—it’s also quick to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests. Let’s dive into creating this zesty staple!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Juice Fresh Lemons: Start by squeezing ¼ cup of fresh lemon juice (about 2 medium lemons) into a mixing bowl. Avoid bottled juice for the brightest flavor.
- Emulsify Gradually: Slowly whisk in ½ cup of extra-virgin olive oil until the mixture thickens slightly. This creates the base of your Lemon Vinaigrette Dressing.
- Season Smartly: Add 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, 1 minced garlic clove, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Taste and adjust acidity or sweetness with honey if needed.
- Store Properly: Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate. This Healthy salad dressing keeps for up to a week.
Lemon Vinaigrette Dressing
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 cup 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A zesty and versatile lemon vinaigrette made with fresh ingredients. Perfect for salads, grain bowls, or drizzling over roasted veggies – and it keeps for up to a week!
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 medium lemons)
- 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Honey, optional (to adjust sweetness)
Instructions
- Juice Fresh Lemons: Squeeze 1/4 cup of lemon juice into a mixing bowl. Use fresh lemons for best flavor.
- Emulsify Gradually: Slowly whisk in 1/2 cup of olive oil until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Season Smartly: Add Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Whisk to combine. Add honey to balance acidity if desired.
- Store Properly: Transfer vinaigrette to an airtight jar and refrigerate. Shake before each use.
Notes
Fresh lemon juice is key. Adjust flavor with a little honey if it’s too tangy for your taste.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dressing
- Method: Whisk
- Cuisine: Healthy
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tbsp
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 60mg
- 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, homemade dressing, easy vinaigrette
Tips
– For a richer texture, substitute part of the olive oil with avocado oil.
– Leftover dressing? Toss it with roasted vegetables or grilled chicken.
– Always shake or re-whisk before use, as separation is natural.
Alternative Methods
– Swap lemon juice with lime or grapefruit for a tropical twist.
– Infuse the oil with herbs like thyme or rosemary for added depth.
– Vegan? Use maple syrup instead of honey for sweetness.
Conclusion
Mastering a simple Lemon Vinaigrette Dressing can elevate countless meals beyond basic greens. As a staple Healthy salad dressing, it brings vibrancy to grains, proteins, and even pasta salads. Keep experimenting with flavors, and let this recipe inspire your culinary creativity!
