Lemon-Garlic Vinaigrette: A Bright and Zesty Delight
There’s something utterly enchanting about a simple salad dressed in a bright, zesty vinaigrette, wouldn’t you agree? Just thinking about it takes me back to summertime picnics in the garden, where the long golden rays of the sun danced upon our plates. My mother, a marvelous cook, would whip up this Lemon-Garlic Vinaigrette that filled the air with an invigorating aroma of fresh lemons and fragrant garlic. It was the perfect dressing to enliven our crisp greens, adding a tangy twist to every bite.
Whether on a cozy weeknight dinner salad or a crisp summer garden spread, my Lemon-Garlic Vinaigrette brings a burst of freshness that evokes nostalgia with every drizzle. This is one you’ll definitely want to pin for later!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for an easy weeknight dinner.
- Bold and zesty flavors that elevate any salad to superstar status.
- Versatile enough to pair with a variety of greens or even grilled meats!
- Minimal ingredients mean it’s a delightful choice for a health-conscious option.
- A homemade dressing can beat store-bought any day, offering a fresh taste that’s hard to rival.
What You’ll Need
To make this bright and lovely Lemon-Garlic Vinaigrette, you’ll need the following simple ingredients:
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Let’s Make It Together
Creating this delightful vinaigrette is as easy as pie! Follow these simple steps to achieve the perfect balance of zesty lemon and aromatic garlic.
- In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, and Dijon mustard until well combined.
- Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously until the mixture is emulsified and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting to your preference.
- Store the vinaigrette in the refrigerator until it’s ready to use, allowing the flavors to combine beautifully.
Variations & Creative Twists
While this Lemon-Garlic Vinaigrette is delightful on its own, here are some fun ways to customize it and make it your own:
- Herb-Infused: Add some finely chopped fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a touch of earthy flavor.
- Sweet & Tangy: Mix in a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup to create a zesty but sweet dressing that pairs well with a fruit salad.
- Spicy Kick: Boost the flavor with a pinch of red pepper flakes for those who love a little heat.
- Creamy Twist: Blend in a tablespoon of Greek yogurt for a rich, creamy salad dressing that’s also protein-packed.
Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips
- Make-Ahead Magic: This vinaigrette can be made a day ahead, letting the flavors mingle beautifully in the refrigerator.
- Fresh Matters: Always use fresh lemon juice for the most vibrant flavor; bottled lemon juice just doesn’t compare.
- Don’t Skimp on Whisking: The key to a good vinaigrette is to whisk well for proper emulsification, creating that lovely creamy texture.
- Shake It Up: If you don’t have a whisk, a mason jar works wonders! Just shake it vigorously until emulsified.
Nutrition Information per Serving
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 120
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Sugar: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Sodium: 5mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead?
Absolutely! It’s best to let it sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld, but you can also prepare it the day before.
Can I use different ingredients?
Sure! Feel free to swap in other oils like avocado or add different herbs for unique flavor profiles.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep your vinaigrette in a tightly sealed jar or container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
How long does it last?
Ideally, it will stay fresh for about 5 to 7 days when stored properly in the fridge.
Final Thoughts
This Lemon-Garlic Vinaigrette captures the essence of those warm summer days while adding a delightful touch to any meal. Its simplicity and bright flavors make it a versatile staple in my kitchen, and I know it’ll become a favorite in your home too.
Save this Lemon-Garlic Vinaigrette to your Pinterest board so it’s ready when you need a cozy treat! Whether you’re dressing a fresh salad or marinating grilled veggies, this vinaigrette will always be a sunny burst of flavor on your plate. Happy cooking, friends!
Print
Lemon-Garlic Vinaigrette
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This bright and zesty Lemon-Garlic Vinaigrette brings a burst of freshness to any salad, perfect for summer picnics and cozy dinners alike.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, and Dijon mustard until well combined.
- Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously until the mixture is emulsified and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting to your preference.
- Store the vinaigrette in the refrigerator until it’s ready to use, allowing the flavors to combine beautifully.
Notes
Make-Ahead Magic: This vinaigrette can be made a day ahead, letting the flavors mingle beautifully in the refrigerator.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad Dressing
- Method: Whisking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: vinaigrette, salad dressing, lemon, garlic, easy recipe, healthy recipe