SALADS

Simple Lemon Vinaigrette: 5-Minute Zesty Dressing

by basmer

5 de January de 2026

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Lemon Vinaigrette is a quick and easy homemade dressing that adds a refreshing zing to any meal. With its bright, tangy flavor, this dressing is perfect for salads, marinating chicken, or drizzling over roasted vegetables. Made with fresh lemon juice, olive oil, and garlic, it’s versatile enough to complement a variety of dishes. Whether you’re looking for a healthy option or simply want to elevate your meal, this fresh lemon vinaigrette recipe is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Vinaigrette

This lemon dressing offers numerous benefits that will make it a staple in your kitchen:

Quick preparation time of only 5 minutes, making it an easy lemon vinaigrette dressing.
Healthy option, as it’s made with wholesome ingredients like olive oil and fresh lemon juice.
Perfect for various dishes including salads, grilled vegetables, and pasta salads.
Customizable flavors with options like garlic or Dijon mustard for added tang.
Low in calories, making it a light lemon vinaigrette dressing suitable for weight-conscious individuals.
Vegan-friendly, aligning with those following a plant-based diet.
Uses best lemon vinaigrette ingredients that are often found in your pantry.
Can be made in bulk and stored for future use, ensuring you always have a flavorful dressing on hand.

Ingredients for Lemon Vinaigrette

Gather these items:

1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 1–2 lemons, depending on size)
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for extra tang and emulsification)
1 clove garlic, minced or grated
1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
Salt and pepper, to taste

How to Make Lemon Vinaigrette Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a small bowl or jar, combine the fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard (if using), minced garlic, and honey (if using). Whisk until smooth.
Step 2: Slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil while whisking to emulsify the dressing, creating a smooth texture. Alternatively, add the oil to a jar and shake well.
Step 3: Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. You can adjust the sweetness or acidity by adding more honey or lemon juice.
Step 4: Drizzle the vinaigrette over your favorite salad, roasted vegetables, or use as a marinade. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Lemon Vinaigrette

Keep these in mind:

Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor.
Experiment with different types of vinegar or citrus to create a unique citrus vinaigrette.
Don’t skip the emulsification step; it ensures a smooth and well-blended dressing.

Best Ways to Serve Lemon Vinaigrette

Here are some delicious serving ideas:

Drizzle over a garden salad for a refreshing touch.
Use as a marinade for grilled chicken or fish.
Perfect for drizzling on roasted or grilled vegetables, enhancing their natural flavors.

How to Store and Reheat Lemon Vinaigrette

Store any leftover homemade lemon vinaigrette in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. The flavors will meld and deepen over time, making it even tastier. Just give it a good shake or stir before using.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lemon Vinaigrette

What’s the secret to perfect Lemon Vinaigrette?

The key to a perfect lemon vinaigrette is balancing the acidity of the lemon juice with the richness of the olive oil. Adjust to your taste for the best results.

Can I make Lemon Vinaigrette ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare lemon vinaigrette in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and shake well before serving.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Lemon Vinaigrette?

To avoid common pitfalls, ensure you are whisking or shaking the dressing well to emulsify it. Also, taste as you go, adjusting the sweetness or acidity to your liking.

Variations of Lemon Vinaigrette You Can Try

Feel free to get creative with your simple lemon vinaigrette recipe:

Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a pop of flavor.
Incorporate a bit of orange or lime juice for a zesty twist.
Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat!

Simple Lemon Vinaigrette: 5-Minute Zesty Dressing - Lemon Vinaigrette - additional detail

For more delicious salad ideas, check out our latest recipes or try our Cranberry Orange Pancakes for a delightful breakfast option. If you’re interested in healthy options, our Chickpea Avocado Salad is a must-try!

For more information on the health benefits of olive oil, you can visit Healthline.

Simple Lemon Vinaigrette: 5-Minute Zesty Dressing

Author: basmer
Total Time: 5 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
Diet: Vegan

Print Recipe

Description

Simple Lemon Vinaigrette is a quick and easy homemade dressing made with fresh lemon juice, olive oil, and garlic. Perfect for salads, marinating chicken, or drizzling over roasted vegetables, this versatile vinaigrette will add a refreshing, tangy kick to any dish.

Ingredients

Scale

1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 1–2 lemons, depending on size)
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for extra tang and emulsification)
1 clove garlic, minced or grated
1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

In a small bowl or jar, combine the fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard (if using), minced garlic, and honey (if using). Whisk until smooth.
Slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil while whisking to emulsify the dressing, creating a smooth texture. Alternatively, add the oil to a jar and shake well.
Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. You can adjust the sweetness or acidity by adding more honey or lemon juice.
Drizzle the vinaigrette over your favorite salad, roasted vegetables, or use as a marinade. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.