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Fresh Lemon Vinaigrette Recipe Easy Homemade Dressing That Clings Perfectly to Greens

fresh lemon vinaigrette recipe - featured image

A bright and simple lemon vinaigrette that clings perfectly to greens, made with fresh lemon juice, olive oil, honey, and Dijon mustard. Ready in about 5 minutes, it’s perfect for quick, flavorful salads.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) fresh lemon juice, freshly squeezed
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (maple syrup for vegan option)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 small garlic clove, finely minced or pressed (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt or sea salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. Roll 2-3 lemons on the countertop to loosen juices, cut in half and juice until you have about 1/4 cup (60 ml) fresh lemon juice, removing seeds.
  2. In a jar or bowl, combine lemon juice, 1/2 cup (120 ml) extra virgin olive oil, 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup, and 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard.
  3. Add minced garlic if using and stir in.
  4. Sprinkle in 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt and 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper.
  5. Screw the lid on the jar tightly and shake vigorously for about 30 seconds until the dressing thickens and emulsifies, or whisk briskly in a bowl for the same amount of time.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning: add more honey if too tart, or a splash of warm water if too thick. Adjust salt and pepper as needed.
  7. Pour over salad greens and toss well to coat every leaf. Serve immediately for best flavor.

Notes

Shake vigorously in a jar for better emulsification and dressing cling. Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for best flavor. Adjust sweetness and seasoning to taste. Store in airtight container in fridge up to one week; shake before use.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon vinaigrette, salad dressing, homemade dressing, lemon dressing, easy vinaigrette, healthy dressing, olive oil dressing