This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our disclosure policy.
When it comes to creating a delicious salad, the right dressing can make all the difference. This everyday Lemon Vinaigrette is a staple in my refrigerator. It’s simple to make, full of zippy flavor and the perfect addition to almost any salad!
Table of Contents
Why I Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This everyday lemon vinaigrette recipe comes together in minutes with just a few simple ingredients.
- Versatile: Whether you need a dressing for your Italian Chopped Salad or something to drizzle over Air Fryer Veggies, this lemon vinaigrette is a delicious choice! You can also use it as a marinade for chicken or fish.
- Flavorful: Bright, tangy, and always delicious, this lemon vinaigrette is full of flavor that you can’t get enough of.
- Pantry Staples: You can whip up this dressing with ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. It’s one of our go-to dressings that’s always in our refrigerator.
The Ingredients
- Olive Oil: This forms the base of our vinaigrette, providing a rich and smooth texture. Extra virgin olive oil is best when it comes to dressings.
- Fresh Lemon Juice: The star of the show! Freshly squeezed lemon juice gives the vinaigrette its bright and zesty flavor.
- Sugar or Honey: A touch of sweetness helps balance the tartness of the lemon juice. You can use either sugar or honey, depending on your preference.
- Shallot: Adding finely minced shallot brings a subtle, savory depth to the vinaigrette, enhancing its overall flavor.
- Kosher Salt: A pinch of kosher salt enhances all the other flavors without overpowering them.
Variations and Substitutions
- Vinegar Swap: Substitute the lemon juice with an equal amount of apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar for a different tangy flavor.
- Herbs: Add a teaspoon of fresh or dried herbs like basil, thyme, or oregano for an herby twist like in this Citrus Herb Vinaigrette.
- Garlic: Mince a clove of garlic and mix it in for an extra kick.
- Mustard: A teaspoon of Dijon mustard can add a nice tang and help emulsify the dressing.
How to Make an Everyday Lemon Vinaigrette
Step 1: Add the ingredients to a food processor and pulse to emulsify. If you don’t have a food processor, add the ingredients in a small bowl or jar with a lid whisking (or shaking) until the mixture is well combined and emulsified.
Step 2: Taste the vinaigrette and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add more salt, pepper, or even a bit more honey if you like it sweeter.
Tips and Tricks
- Emulsify for Best Results: Whisking the ingredients together helps to emulsify the dressing, ensuring that the oil and lemon juice blend seamlessly. If you don’t have a food processor, use a jar with a tight-fitting lid to shake it up.
- Storage: Store any leftover vinaigrette in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Shake well before each use.
- Room Temperature: If your vinaigrette solidifies in the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before using it. Give it a good shake or whisk to recombine the ingredients.
- Serving Suggestions: Use this zippy, lemony vinaigrette on a simple arugula salad, Summer Garden Salad, Apple, Pear and Goat Cheese Fall Salad, Easy Breezy Roast Veggie Salad or this Grilled Chicken, Vegetable and Avocado Salad to name a few.
FAQs
Stored properly in the refrigerator, this vinaigrette will last up to a week. Always give it a good shake or stir before using.
Absolutely! Just use sugar or maple syrup instead of honey to keep the recipe vegan-friendly.
This lemon vinaigrette is incredibly versatile. Use it as a marinade for chicken or fish, a dressing for grain bowls, or even as a dip for fresh veggies.
More Homemade Salad Dressings
Whether you’re looking to add a touch of brightness to your salads or a quick and flavorful marinade, this lemon vinaigrette is your new everyday kitchen staple. If you make this salad dressing and love it, leave a comment and rating below!
Want more Weelicious? Subscribe to my newsletter and follow me on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok for all the newest recipes!
Would you like to save this?
We'll email this post to you, so you can come back to it later!
Everyday Lemon Vinaigrette
Equipment
- Food Processor (or jar with lid)
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 cup lemon juice (about 3 medium lemons)
- 1 small shallot, finely diced
- 1 tablespoon honey (or sugar)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
Instructions
- Add the ingredients to a food processor and pulse to emulsify. Alternatively, add the ingredients to a small bowl or mason jar whisking (or shaking) until the mixture is well combined and emulsified.
- Taste the vinaigrette and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add more salt, or even a bit more honey if you like it sweeter.
