When it comes to creating a delicious salad, the right dressing can make all the difference. This everyday Lemon Vinaigrette is a staple in my refrigerator. It’s simple to make, full of zippy flavor and the perfect addition to almost any salad!

Lemon vinaigrette dressing in mason jar.Pin
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Why I Love This Recipe

  • Quick and Easy: This everyday lemon vinaigrette recipe comes together in minutes with just a few simple ingredients.
  • Versatile: Whether you need a dressing for your Italian Chopped Salad or something to drizzle over Air Fryer Veggies, this lemon vinaigrette is a delicious choice! You can also use it as a marinade for chicken or fish.
  • Flavorful: Bright, tangy, and always delicious, this lemon vinaigrette is full of flavor that you can’t get enough of.
  • Pantry Staples: You can whip up this dressing with ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. It’s one of our go-to dressings that’s always in our refrigerator.

The Ingredients

Lemon vinaigrette dressing ingredients.Pin
  • Olive Oil: This forms the base of our vinaigrette, providing a rich and smooth texture. Extra virgin olive oil is best when it comes to dressings.
  • Fresh Lemon Juice: The star of the show! Freshly squeezed lemon juice gives the vinaigrette its bright and zesty flavor.
  • Sugar or Honey: A touch of sweetness helps balance the tartness of the lemon juice. You can use either sugar or honey, depending on your preference.
  • Shallot: Adding finely minced shallot brings a subtle, savory depth to the vinaigrette, enhancing its overall flavor.
  • Kosher Salt: A pinch of kosher salt enhances all the other flavors without overpowering them.

Variations and Substitutions

  • Vinegar Swap: Substitute the lemon juice with an equal amount of apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar for a different tangy flavor.
  • Herbs: Add a teaspoon of fresh or dried herbs like basil, thyme, or oregano for an herby twist like in this Citrus Herb Vinaigrette.
  • Garlic: Mince a clove of garlic and mix it in for an extra kick.
  • Mustard: A teaspoon of Dijon mustard can add a nice tang and help emulsify the dressing.

How to Make an Everyday Lemon Vinaigrette

Everyday lemon vinaigrette ingredients in food processor.Pin

Step 1: Add the ingredients to a food processor and pulse to emulsify. If you don’t have a food processor, add the ingredients in a small bowl or jar with a lid whisking (or shaking) until the mixture is well combined and emulsified.

Everyday lemon vinaigrette dressing in food processor.Pin

Step 2: Taste the vinaigrette and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add more salt, pepper, or even a bit more honey if you like it sweeter.

Tips and Tricks

  • Emulsify for Best Results: Whisking the ingredients together helps to emulsify the dressing, ensuring that the oil and lemon juice blend seamlessly. If you don’t have a food processor, use a jar with a tight-fitting lid to shake it up.
  • Storage: Store any leftover vinaigrette in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Shake well before each use.
  • Room Temperature: If your vinaigrette solidifies in the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before using it. Give it a good shake or whisk to recombine the ingredients.
  • Serving Suggestions: Use this zippy, lemony vinaigrette on a simple arugula salad, Summer Garden Salad, Apple, Pear and Goat Cheese Fall Salad, Easy Breezy Roast Veggie Salad or this Grilled Chicken, Vegetable and Avocado Salad to name a few.

FAQs

How long does homemade vinaigrette dressing last?

Stored properly in the refrigerator, this vinaigrette will last up to a week. Always give it a good shake or stir before using.

Can I make lemon vinaigrette vegan?

Absolutely! Just use sugar or maple syrup instead of honey to keep the recipe vegan-friendly.

What else can I use lemon vinaigrette for?

This lemon vinaigrette is incredibly versatile. Use it as a marinade for chicken or fish, a dressing for grain bowls, or even as a dip for fresh veggies.

Pouring lemon vinaigrette over salad.Pin

More Homemade Salad Dressings

Whether you’re looking to add a touch of brightness to your salads or a quick and flavorful marinade, this lemon vinaigrette is your new everyday kitchen staple. If you make this salad dressing and love it, leave a comment and rating below!

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Lemon vinaigrette dressing in mason jar.Pin

Everyday Lemon Vinaigrette

This everyday Lemon Vinaigrette is a staple in my refrigerator. It's simple to make, full of zippy flavor and the perfect addition to almost any salad!
No ratings yet
Course: Dressing
Cuisine: American, French
Servings: 1 cup
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes

Equipment

  • Food Processor (or jar with lid)

Ingredients  

Instructions 

  • Add the ingredients to a food processor and pulse to emulsify. Alternatively, add the ingredients to a small bowl or mason jar whisking (or shaking) until the mixture is well combined and emulsified.
  • Taste the vinaigrette and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add more salt, or even a bit more honey if you like it sweeter.

Notes

Too Zippy? If you’re dressing is too zippy, add more olive oil to taste.
Emulsify for Best Results: Whisking the ingredients together helps to emulsify the dressing, ensuring that the oil and lemon juice blend seamlessly. If you don’t have a food processor, use a jar with a tight-fitting lid to shake it up.
Storage: Store any leftover vinaigrette in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Shake well before each use.
Room Temperature: If your vinaigrette solidifies in the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before using it. Give it a good shake or whisk to recombine the ingredients.
Serving Suggestions: Use this zippy, lemony vinaigrette on a simple arugula salad, Summer Garden SaladApple, Pear and Goat Cheese Fall SaladEasy Breezy Roast Veggie Salad or this Grilled Chicken, Vegetable and Avocado Salad to name a few.
Did you make this recipe?Mention @Weelicious or tag #weelicious!

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