Are you tired of store-bought salad dressings with their long list of unpronounceable ingredients? This homemade lemon vinaigrette dressing is the perfect solution – bright, flavorful, and ready in just 5 minutes. The refreshing combination of apple cider vinegar, fresh lemon juice, and herbs creates a versatile dressing that elevates any salad from ordinary to extraordinary.

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Vinaigrette

This zesty dressing strikes the perfect balance between tangy and sweet, with the fresh lemon juice providing a vibrant citrus note that wakes up your taste buds. Whether you’re drizzling it over a simple green salad, using it as a marinade for chicken, or tossing it with roasted vegetables, this lemon vinaigrette adds incredible flavor to any dish.

The best part? It’s made with simple, wholesome ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. No preservatives, no artificial flavors – just pure, delicious ingredients that come together in minutes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons water
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 2 teaspoons honey or maple syrup (or stevia to taste)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano (or 1 tablespoon fresh)
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon sea salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ cup + 2 tablespoons olive oil

How to Make Lemon Vinaigrette Dressing

This dressing couldn’t be easier to prepare. Follow these simple steps:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together all ingredients except the olive oil: apple cider vinegar, fresh lemon juice, water, Dijon mustard, honey (or maple syrup/stevia), dried oregano, minced garlic, sea salt, and black pepper.
2. Once those ingredients are well combined, slowly pour in the olive oil while whisking continuously. This gradual addition helps emulsify the dressing, creating a smooth, well-blended texture.
3. Continue whisking until all ingredients are fully incorporated and the dressing has emulsified.

Alternative Mixing Methods

Don’t feel like whisking? No problem! You have options:

• Blender method: Add all ingredients to your blender and pulse until smooth and emulsified.
• Jar method: Place all ingredients in a jar with a tight-fitting lid and shake vigorously until well combined.

Health Benefits of This Lemon Vinaigrette

This dressing isn’t just delicious – it’s packed with beneficial ingredients:

• Apple cider vinegar: Known for its potential digestive benefits and blood sugar regulation properties
• Olive oil: Rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants
• Fresh lemon juice: High in vitamin C and antioxidants
• Garlic: Contains compounds with various health benefits, including immune support
• Oregano: Provides antioxidants and antimicrobial properties

Ways to Use Your Lemon Vinaigrette

This versatile dressing pairs beautifully with many dishes:

• Toss with mixed greens for a refreshing salad
• Drizzle over roasted vegetables
• Use as a marinade for chicken, fish, or shrimp
• Dress pasta salads or grain bowls
• Serve as a dipping sauce for crusty bread

Storage Tips

Store your homemade lemon vinaigrette in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. If the oil solidifies when chilled, simply let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes and shake or whisk before using.

Customization Options

Make this recipe your own with these simple variations:

• Add fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or parsley
• Include a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat
• Swap the honey for maple syrup for a vegan option
• Add a teaspoon of grated lemon zest for extra citrus flavor
• Try different vinegars like white wine vinegar or champagne vinegar

Final Thoughts

This homemade lemon vinaigrette dressing proves that creating delicious, restaurant-quality dressings at home is both simple and rewarding. With just a few minutes of preparation, you’ll have a versatile dressing that can transform everyday meals into something special.

Say goodbye to processed dressings and hello to the bright, fresh flavors of this homemade lemon vinaigrette. Your salads (and your taste buds) will thank you!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dressing ahead of time? Yes! This dressing actually tastes even better after the flavors have had time to meld. Make it a day ahead for the best flavor.

How long does homemade lemon vinaigrette last? When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, this dressing will stay fresh for up to one week.

Is this dressing keto-friendly? If you use stevia instead of honey or maple syrup, this dressing is keto-compatible.

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh? Fresh lemon juice provides the brightest flavor, but bottled can work in a pinch. The taste won’t be quite as vibrant.

What’s the best oil to use for this dressing? Extra virgin olive oil is ideal for its flavor and health benefits, but you could substitute avocado oil for a more neutral taste.

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