Crafting a Lemon Vinaigrette Dressing is like a refreshing breath of summer, no matter the season. After multiple testing sessions in my kitchen, I’ve discovered just how versatile and zesty this dressing can be, enhancing everything from fresh salads to grilled veggies. The balance of acidity and sweetness sings, and there’s something incredibly satisfying about whisking it together. If you love easy homemade recipes, you’ll also enjoy my Avocado Toast with Egg.
About Lemon Vinaigrette Dressing
This Lemon Vinaigrette Dressing brings a burst of citrus brightness to any dish. I initially tested this recipe on a whim, wanting a light dressing for a fresh garden salad. But what I found is that it elevates not just salads but also grilled meats and grains beautifully. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and quick to make — ready in just five minutes!
- Quick prep time — perfect for weeknight meals.
- Budget-friendly — simple ingredients you likely already have on hand.
- Versatile — great on salads, veggies, and even as a marinade.
- This dressing hails from classic French cuisine, where vinaigrettes are a staple.
Key Ingredients & Their Roles
- Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds acidity and tang; can substitute with white wine vinegar.
- Lemon Juice: Brightens flavors; use fresh for the best taste.
- Dijon Mustard: Emulsifies the dressing and adds depth; can replace with honey mustard.
- Olive Oil: Base of the dressing; choose a good quality extra virgin for richness.
How to Make Lemon Vinaigrette Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, water, Dijon mustard, honey, oregano, garlic, sea salt, and black pepper until well blended.
- Maintain a steady whisking and slowly pour in the olive oil; continue whisking until the mixture has emulsified and is well combined — about 30 seconds.
- For a quick alternative, combine all ingredients in a blender or a jar, then shake until mixed.
- Serve immediately, or store in the fridge for up to a week, letting it come to room temperature and shake again before using.
Pro Tips & Troubleshooting
- When adding the olive oil, do it slowly to ensure proper emulsification — this prevents separation.
- If the dressing is too tangy, add more honey or maple syrup for sweetness; flavors adjust beautifully.
- Scaling the recipe is easy; just double the ingredients for a larger batch, keeping the same ratios.
Storage & Make-Ahead Guide
This Lemon Vinaigrette Dressing can be stored in the fridge for up to one week. I’ve found that it tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. If you want to store it longer, consider freezing small portions for a couple of months. Reheat gently by letting it sit at room temperature or warm it in a bowl over hot water.
What to Serve With Lemon Vinaigrette Dressing
This dressing works wonders on fresh salads, grilled chicken, and even drizzled over roasted vegetables. Pair it with my Grilled Vegetables for a delightful meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long can I store Lemon Vinaigrette Dressing? It stays fresh in the fridge for up to one week.
- Can I use other types of vinegar? Yes, white wine vinegar or red wine vinegar work well too.
- Is it possible to make it vegan? Absolutely, just use maple syrup instead of honey.
- Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh? Yes, but use less; dried herbs are more concentrated.
- How do I use it as a marinade? Simply toss your proteins in the dressing for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Vinaigrette Dressing has become a staple in my kitchen. It’s simple, flavorful, and adaptable to so many dishes. I love drizzling it over a vibrant salad or using it in a light pasta dish. If you give it a try, please share your thoughts—I’d love to hear how it works for you!
More Recipes You’ll Love
- Cucumber Tomato Salad – a refreshing side that pairs well with the bright flavors of lemon vinaigrette.
- Grilled Vegetables – complements the dressing beautifully with their smoky flavors.
- Avocado Toast with Egg – the creamy texture pairs perfectly with the tangy vinaigrette.
- Watermelon Feta Salad – a delightful summer dish that benefits from a splash of lemon vinaigrette.
Basic Lemon Vinaigrette Dressing
Ingredients
Basic Ingredients
- 0.25 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 tablespoon dijon mustard
- 2 teaspoons honey or maple syrup or stevia, to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or 1 tablespoon fresh
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 0.5 teaspoon sea salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.5 cup olive oil plus 2 tablespoons
Instructions
Mixing Ingredients
- Whisk together apple cider vinegar, fresh lemon juice, water, dijon mustard, honey, oregano, garlic, sea salt, and black pepper in a small bowl.0.25 cup apple cider vinegar
- Slowly pour olive oil into the bowl while whisking until emulsified.
- Alternatively, blend all ingredients in a blender or shake in a jar.
Notes
For a sweeter dressing, adjust the honey or syrup to taste.