Description
A bright and zesty lemon vinaigrette perfect for salads and marinades, combining fresh lemon juice, garlic, Dijon mustard, and extra-virgin olive oil for a flavorful and easy dressing.
Ingredients
Scale
Vinaigrette Ingredients
- ÂĽ cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 small garlic clove, grated
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ÂĽ teaspoon sea salt (more to taste)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- ½ teaspoon honey (optional)
- ÂĽ to â…“ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- ½ teaspoon fresh or dried thyme (optional)
Instructions
- Combine Base Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, grated garlic, Dijon mustard, sea salt, freshly ground black pepper, and honey if using to create the flavorful base of the dressing.
- Emulsify with Olive Oil: Slowly drizzle in the extra-virgin olive oil while continuously whisking until the mixture is emulsified and creamy. Alternatively, add all ingredients to a jar with a tight-fitting lid and shake vigorously to combine.
- Taste and Adjust: If the dressing tastes too tangy, gradually add more olive oil to mellow the acidity to your preference.
- Add Herbs and Final Seasoning: Stir in the fresh or dried thyme if desired. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.
- Store Properly: Transfer the vinaigrette to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep for up to one week. Note that olive oil may solidify in the fridge; to restore texture, let the dressing sit at room temperature for a few minutes and stir before use.
Notes
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the most vibrant flavor.
- Adjust the honey or omit it entirely for a dairy- and sugar-free option.
- Substitute thyme with other herbs like oregano or basil for flavor variation.
- This vinaigrette pairs well with mixed greens, roasted vegetables, or grilled chicken.
- Shake or whisk again before using if stored in the fridge as ingredients may separate or olive oil may solidify.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad Dressing
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
