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Fresh Lemon Dijon Vinaigrette Recipe Easy Homemade Dressing for Summer Salads

fresh lemon dijon vinaigrette - featured image

A fresh, zingy lemon Dijon vinaigrette that is quick and easy to make, perfect for summer salads, marinades, and sandwich spreads. This dressing balances tang and creaminess with simple pantry ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 30 ml)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil (60 ml)
  • 1/2 teaspoon honey (optional)
  • 1 small clove garlic, finely minced or grated
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper, a few twists

Instructions

  1. Juice the lemons (about 2 tablespoons / 30 ml): Roll the lemons on the counter to loosen the juice, then cut in half and juice into a small bowl. Be sure to strain out seeds.
  2. Add the Dijon mustard (1 teaspoon): Stir the mustard into the lemon juice until fully combined to create a smooth emulsion.
  3. Add the honey (optional, 1/2 teaspoon): Whisk it in now to balance the acidity.
  4. Add minced garlic (1 small clove): Stir it in to distribute flavor evenly.
  5. Season with salt (1/4 teaspoon) and freshly ground pepper: Add these to meld the flavors.
  6. Slowly drizzle in 1/4 cup (60 ml) extra virgin olive oil: While whisking vigorously, add the olive oil in a thin stream to blend into a creamy vinaigrette.
  7. Taste and adjust: Add more honey or olive oil if too tart, or more salt or lemon juice if too mild.
  8. Store: Transfer to a jar with a lid and refrigerate if not using immediately. Shake well before serving.

Notes

Emulsify lemon juice and Dijon mustard before adding oil for a smooth texture. Use fresh lemon juice for best flavor. Add honey gradually to balance acidity. Shake or whisk before serving as separation may occur. Store in fridge up to one week.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon Dijon vinaigrette, homemade dressing, summer salad dressing, easy vinaigrette, lemon dressing, Dijon mustard dressing, olive oil dressing