Bright Lemon Vinaigrette Dressing (Print Version)

A zesty, vibrant dressing bursting with fresh lemon flavor, ready in 5 minutes.

# What You Need:

→ Liquids

01 - 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 1 large lemon)
02 - 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
03 - 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
04 - 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

→ Seasonings

05 - 1 small garlic clove, finely minced
06 - 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
07 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
08 - 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest (optional)

# Directions:

01 - In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey or maple syrup, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until well blended.
02 - Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking vigorously, until the dressing is emulsified and slightly thickened.
03 - Stir in the lemon zest if using for extra bright citrus flavor.
04 - Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or sweetener to balance flavors.
05 - Use immediately or refrigerate in a sealed container for up to 1 week. Shake or whisk before each use to re-emulsify.

# Insider Tips:

01 -
  • Takes literally five minutes but makes people think you know secrets about flavor
  • Keeps in your fridge for a week, so you can actually eat the salad greens you bought with good intentions
02 -
  • This dressing will solidify slightly in the fridge because olive oil does that. Let it sit on the counter for five minutes and whisk it back to life.
  • The garlic gets stronger as it sits. If you are making it ahead, taste it before serving.
03 -
  • Make the dressing in the jar you plan to store it in. Less cleanup means you might actually make it again.
  • If it separates in the fridge, that is normal. Just shake it until it comes back together.