Tired of store-bought dressings loaded with additives? This homemade lemon vinaigrette is about to be your go-to! It’s bright, tangy, and packed with fresh flavor—perfect for salads, grilled veggies, or even as a marinade.
Made with just a few pantry staples and fresh lemon juice, this dressing comes together in under 5 minutes and tastes way better than anything from a bottle.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ Fresh & Zesty – Real lemon juice gives it a bright kick
✅ Healthy & Clean – No preservatives, just real ingredients
✅ Fast & Easy – Shake it up in a jar or whisk it in a bowl
✅ Versatile – Works as a salad dressing, marinade, or drizzle
🍋 Ingredients (Makes about ½ cup)
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice (about 1–2 lemons) 🍋
- ½ cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 garlic clove, minced (or ½ teaspoon garlic powder)
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for balance)
- Salt & pepper to taste
🥗 How to Make Lemon Vinaigrette Dressing
Step 1: Juice & Prep
Squeeze your fresh lemons and mince the garlic (if using fresh). The fresher, the better!
Step 2: Whisk or Shake
In a small bowl or jar, combine:
✔️ Lemon juice
✔️ Olive oil
✔️ Dijon mustard
✔️ Garlic
✔️ Honey (if using)
✔️ Salt & pepper
Whisk until fully combined, or close the jar and shake it up until emulsified.
Step 3: Taste & Adjust
Give it a taste! Want more tang? Add a splash of lemon juice. Need a hint of sweetness? Add a bit more honey. More bite? A little extra Dijon does the trick.
🧡 Ways to Use It
✔️ Toss with greens for a refreshing salad
✔️ Drizzle over grilled vegetables or fish
✔️ Use as a light marinade for chicken or tofu
✔️ Stir into quinoa or couscous for extra flavor
💡 Flavor Boosts & Variations
✔️ Add fresh herbs like basil, dill, or parsley
✔️ Try with white wine vinegar for extra sharpness
✔️ Swap olive oil for avocado oil for a milder taste
🧊 How to Store It
Store in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 1 week. Just give it a good shake before using—natural separation is totally normal.
💖 Final Thoughts: The Dressing That Does It All
This lemon vinaigrette is fresh, light, and ridiculously easy to make. Whether you’re dressing up your daily salad or impressing guests at dinner, this simple recipe brings a splash of sunshine to any plate.
