Easy Lemon Vinaigrette

Fresh and vibrant this lemon vinaigrette is easy to make. In just 5 minutes you can whip up your own batch to have on hand. The best part? It pairs well with so many things.

When it comes to dressing recipes I have three favorites – this easy lemon vinaigrette, my simple balsamic vinaigrette, and my go-to Ranch Dressing. They’re the three salad dressings I always have on hand. Simple to make and make any salad go from good to great!

Homemade salad dressings are quite simple to make. Rather than seem overwhelming, aim to keep them simple. And this dressing is as simple as it gets. The lemon vinaigrette while great on a salad can also pair well with any chicken or fish dish too! Super versatile and well worth the 5 minutes it takes to make! Store bought dressings often add too much sugar and salt. Being able to manage what you put in can help improve your health with a few simple small tweaks.

As a dietitian I’m always encouraging patients to incorporate more vegetables when and where possible. The key is to make sure the vegetables aren’t boring and that they have flavor. Add this simple salad dressing to not only provide flavor, but also fullness (it’s part of the job that fat plays in our body). Sneak peek of one of the salads I use with this dressing (see picture and recipe coming soon!)

Ingredients: Lemon Vinaigrette

There’s just 5 main ingredients in this easy, homemade lemon vinaigrette, including:

• Lemons: Use freshly squeezed lemon juice, and not lemon juice from a jar if possible.
• Olive Oil: Extra-virgin olive oil is best for salad dressings (no cooking involved).
• Dijon Mustard:  Emulsification is the name of the game and the job Dijon mustard plays. Dijon mustard can provide a hint of spice and isn’t always my favorite just plain, however, mixed with the lemon juice makes the perfect combination.
• Honey: A smidge could be used to help balance the tartness of the lemons. However, as you’ll see in the actual recipe below, I used NONE. This recipe doesn’t need any. Pinky swear promise.
• Garlic: Minced garlic cloves will make any dressing zing with flavor. Add more or less depending on your likes.
• Black Pepper: Using black pepper here and no added salt, as it really isn’t necessary.

How To Make An Easy Lemon Vinaigrette

1. Combine in a small bowl the lemon juice, mustard, and garlic and whisk to blend.
2. Add the oil in a slow, steady stream, whisking constantly until smooth and blended.
3. Season with black pepper and stir in any herbs you’re using.

Other Salad Recipes

• Salad in a Jar
• Fried Goat Cheese Strawberry Salad
• Zoodle Salad
• Copycat Emerald Kale Salad

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