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Easy 5-Minute Lemon Vinaigrette Dressing Recipe for Fresh Flavor Boost

easy lemon vinaigrette dressing - featured image

A quick and fresh lemon vinaigrette dressing made with simple pantry staples, perfect for salads, roasted veggies, or as a marinade. Ready in under 5 minutes with a bright, balanced flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 30 ml)
  • 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil (80 ml)
  • 1 teaspoon honey (5 ml) (can substitute maple syrup for vegan)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (5 ml)
  • 1 small clove garlic, minced (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt (to taste)
  • Freshly ground black pepper, a few cracks
  • Optional: pinch of dried oregano or fresh chopped herbs like parsley

Instructions

  1. Roll the lemon on the counter a few times to loosen the juice, then cut in half and squeeze out about 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of fresh juice, avoiding seeds.
  2. In a small mixing bowl or jar, combine lemon juice, 1/3 cup (80 ml) extra virgin olive oil, 1 teaspoon (5 ml) honey, and 1 teaspoon (5 ml) Dijon mustard.
  3. Add the minced garlic if using.
  4. Sprinkle in 1/4 teaspoon salt and a few cracks of black pepper.
  5. Whisk vigorously with a fork or whisk until the mixture thickens slightly and emulsifies, about 2 minutes. Alternatively, secure the lid on a jar and shake vigorously until combined.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning: add more honey if too tart, or more salt/pepper if needed. Add a splash of water if the dressing is too thick.
  7. Serve immediately or store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Shake or whisk before serving again.

Notes

Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for best flavor. If olive oil is too cold, let it come to room temperature to avoid cloudiness. Shake or whisk before each use to re-emulsify. Honey can be swapped with maple syrup or agave nectar for a vegan version. Optional herbs or spices can be added for variation.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon vinaigrette, salad dressing, quick dressing, lemon dressing, easy vinaigrette, healthy dressing, olive oil dressing, fresh lemon dressing