Homemade lemon vinaigrette drizzled on a fresh garden salad

Why Make This Recipe

Homemade Lemon Vinaigrette is a simple and fresh dressing that can brighten up any salad. Making your own vinaigrette allows you to control the flavors and use fresh ingredients. Plus, it’s quick to whip up and can elevate your meals from ordinary to extraordinary. This versatile dressing goes well with any salad and can also be used as a marinade or drizzled over vegetables.

How to Make Homemade Lemon Vinaigrette

Ingredients

3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard (such as Grey Poupon)
1 medium garlic clove, finely minced or squeezed through a garlic press
1/4 teaspoon Kosher salt
1/8 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil

Directions

In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Slowly pour in the olive oil while whisking continuously to emulsify the dressing. This helps blend the oil with the other ingredients.
Alternatively, you can make this in a jar with a tight-fitting lid. Just add all the ingredients, cover the jar, and shake vigorously to mix.
Use the dressing within a couple of hours for the freshest flavor, or refrigerate it in a sealed container for up to two weeks. If storing, bring it to room temperature before using and re-whisk or shake the jar to combine.

How to Serve Homemade Lemon Vinaigrette

This lemon vinaigrette is perfect for drizzling over your favorite salads, whether they are simple green salads or more robust grain-based salads. You can also use it to dress vegetables or as a marinade for chicken or fish. Just a couple of tablespoons can add a bright, tangy flavor that enhances your dish.

How to Store Homemade Lemon Vinaigrette

Store any leftover lemon vinaigrette in a sealed container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to two weeks. Before using, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes and give it a good shake or whisk to re-emulsify.

Tips to Make Homemade Lemon Vinaigrette

Adjust the lemon juice to taste. If you prefer a tangier dressing, add a little more lemon juice.
For added flavor, consider adding herbs like basil or oregano.
If you want a sweeter dressing, you can add a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup.

Variation

For a creamier dressing, you can add a spoonful of Greek yogurt or mayonnaise to the mixture. This will give you a richer texture and flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
While bottled lemon juice is convenient, fresh lemon juice will give you a better flavor. Fresh juice is always recommended for the best taste.

2. How long does homemade vinaigrette last in the fridge?
Homemade lemon vinaigrette can last up to two weeks in a sealed container in the refrigerator.

3. Can I use a different type of vinegar?
Yes, you can substitute fresh lemon juice with other types of vinegar like apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar for a different flavor profile.