Lemon Vinaigrette Dressing
A vibrant lemon vinaigrette with fresh green onions and Dijon mustard, perfect for salads or as a marinade for vegetables and proteins, offering bright, tangy flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 1-pint jar with a tight-fitting lid or cruet, combine all ingredients.
- Shake well to blend the flavors.
- Chill to allow the flavors to meld.
- Use as a salad dressing or as a marinade for asparagus, broccoli, poultry, or fish.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a tablespoon of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt. If you don't have vegetable oil, olive oil works well for a richer flavor. The sugar can be adjusted to taste, or replaced with honey for a natural sweetness. Fresh herbs like parsley or dill can also enhance the dressing. This vinaigrette is perfect for customizing with your own twist, making it great for American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This lemon vinaigrette dressing is a versatile addition to your salads, particularly green salads with crunchy vegetables. It pairs beautifully with grilled vegetables or can be used as a marinade for asparagus, broccoli, poultry, or fish. For a complete meal, serve it alongside your favorite protein or mix it into a grain salad for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover lemon vinaigrette in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Before using, give it a good shake as the ingredients may separate over time. For best results, bring it to room temperature before serving, as the oil may thicken when chilled.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lemon Vinaigrette Dressing contains roughly 45 calories, with 1g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (17% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh lemon juice instead of bottled lemon juice?
Absolutely! Fresh lemon juice will provide a brighter, more vibrant flavor compared to bottled lemon juice. Use about 1/3 cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice for this recipe. Just be sure to taste and adjust the seasoning as fresh juice can vary in tartness.
How can I make this dressing vegan?
This lemon vinaigrette is already vegan! It contains no animal products, making it a great choice for those following vegan recipes. Just ensure that any additional ingredients, like mustard, are also vegan-friendly.
What can I use this dressing on besides salads?
This lemon vinaigrette is incredibly versatile! Use it as a marinade for grilled vegetables, chicken, or fish. It also works well drizzled over roasted potatoes or used to dress grain bowls. Get creative and try it with your favorite dishes!
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).