Bright, zesty, and endlessly versatile, this Lemon Salad Dressing is about to become your new go-to for everything from leafy greens to grain bowls. Every drizzle brings a burst of fresh citrus balanced by luscious olive oil, a hint of honey, and a savory kick from Dijon. It’s so simple to make and genuinely perks up even the most ordinary veggies. The magic comes from the perfect harmony of sweet, tart, and savory, making this easy vinaigrette a staple in any kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe is just how effortless and everyday the ingredients are. Each one plays a starring role, offering brightness, creaminess, a pop of flavor, or that essential savory depth that sets Lemon Salad Dressing apart from the rest.
- Fresh lemon juice: Brings that signature tangy brightness you can’t get from bottled lemon juice—fresh is key.
- Extra virgin olive oil: Provides a rich, smooth base that gently mellows the citrus and carries the flavors across your palate.
- Dijon mustard: Adds a touch of bite and acts as a natural emulsifier, helping the dressing stay silky-smooth.
- Honey or maple syrup: Just a tablespoon brings a subtle sweetness and perfectly balances the lemon’s acidity.
- Minced garlic: A single clove adds depth and a bit of a flavor punch, infusing the dressing with aromatic savoriness.
- Salt: Sharpens and unifies all the other flavors for a well-rounded finished taste.
- Black pepper: Provides gentle heat and a subtle earthiness, keeping things lively.
How to Make Lemon Salad Dressing
Step 1: Gather and Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by juicing your lemons, mincing your garlic, and measuring out each ingredient. Having everything prepped before you begin makes the process soooo much smoother, especially since this Lemon Salad Dressing comes together fast.
Step 2: Whisk Up the Flavor Base
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey (or maple syrup), minced garlic, salt, and pepper. This mix forms the vibrant foundation of your dressing, where all those bold flavors meet.
Step 3: Emulsify with Olive Oil
Slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil while whisking briskly and continuously. This step is where the transformation happens—the oil and lemon mixture come together into a creamy, cohesive vinaigrette that clings beautifully to every leaf.
Step 4: Taste and Tweak
Don’t skip a taste test! Adjust the salt, pepper, or sweetness as needed. Maybe you like it a little more tangy or prefer a slightly sweeter profile—this Lemon Salad Dressing is super adaptable to your tastes.
Step 5: Store or Serve
Pour your finished dressing into an airtight jar or bottle. If you’re using it right away, give it a final stir or shake to make sure everything’s perfectly blended. Otherwise, pop it in the fridge and let those flavors mingle even more until you’re ready to enjoy it.
How to Serve Lemon Salad Dressing
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh herbs like chopped parsley, dill, or chives turns this Lemon Salad Dressing into a restaurant-worthy finish. You could also add a few lemon zest curls right on top for even more zing and a pop of color.
Side Dishes
This dressing is sensational on classic green salads, but don’t stop there! Try drizzling it over roasted vegetables, grain salads like quinoa or farro, or even as a tangy topping for grilled chicken or fish sides—it instantly brightens any meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Pour your Lemon Salad Dressing into a small pitcher for a family-style meal, or serve it in individual dipping cups for a fun, interactive appetizer. For a casual party, thread veggies onto skewers and set out the dressing as a flavorful dip.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Lemon Salad Dressing in a clean, airtight jar or container in the refrigerator. It’ll keep its zippy, fresh flavor for up to one week. Just shake it well (or stir) before using, as natural separation is totally normal.
Freezing
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze Lemon Salad Dressing if needed. Pour into a freezer-safe container, leaving space for expansion, and freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge and whisk before serving—the texture may change slightly, but the punchy flavor remains.
Reheating
No need to reheat this dressing, but if the oil has solidified in the fridge, simply let the Lemon Salad Dressing sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes. A good shake or stir will bring it right back to life.
FAQs
Can I make Lemon Salad Dressing without garlic?
Absolutely! If you prefer a milder flavor or need to skip garlic for dietary reasons, just leave it out—the Lemon Salad Dressing will still taste wonderfully bright and tasty.
Is this dressing vegan-friendly?
Yes, it can be! Just swap the honey for pure maple syrup and you’ll have a completely vegan Lemon Salad Dressing that everyone can enjoy.
What can I use instead of Dijon mustard?
If you don’t have Dijon on hand, try whole grain mustard or even yellow mustard. Each brings its own character, but any will help emulsify and add that tangy backbone.
How do I make the dressing creamier?
Blend in a spoonful of Greek yogurt for a lovely, creamy twist. This not only thickens the dressing but also adds a mellow tang that pairs beautifully with the sharpness of the lemon.
Can I double or triple the recipe?
Yes! This Lemon Salad Dressing is easy to scale up for meal prep or parties. Just keep the proportions the same and mix in a larger jar or bowl.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a fresh, homemade touch that instantly elevates your salads and meals, you can’t go wrong with this Lemon Salad Dressing. Give it a try—one taste and it’s sure to become a delicious little habit you’ll reach for again and again!
Print
Lemon Salad Dressing Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Condiment
- Method: No Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan, Gluten-Free
Description
This zesty Lemon Salad Dressing is a versatile and flavorful addition to any salad. Made with fresh lemon juice, olive oil, and a hint of sweetness, it’s easy to whip up and elevates your greens to the next level.
Ingredients
Lemon Salad Dressing:
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 garlic clove (minced)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Emulsify: Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously to create an emulsion.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Store: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Shake or stir before each use.
Notes
- For a creamier texture, blend in 1 tablespoon of Greek yogurt.
- This dressing pairs well with leafy greens, grain salads, or roasted vegetables.
- Adjust sweetness or acidity to your preference.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 120 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 0 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
