Are you tired of using the same old salad dressing every time? Look no further! We’ve got 20 zesty lemon vinaigrette recipes to spice up your salads and elevate your meal game. From classic combinations like Lemon Garlic Vinaigrette to bold and spicy options like Spicy Lemon Chili Vinaigrette, we’ve got a recipe for everyone.
Whether you’re looking for something light and refreshing or something tangy and zesty, these lemon vinaigrettes are sure to impress. And the best part? They’re all incredibly easy to make and require just a few simple ingredients. So why not give one (or five) of these recipes a try and take your salads to the next level?
Read on for our complete list of 20 zesty lemon vinaigrette recipes, from sweet to savory and everything in between!
Classic Lemon Garlic Vinaigrette
Brighten up your salads with this zesty and aromatic vinaigrette recipe that combines the freshness of lemon juice, pungency of garlic, and tanginess of vinegar.
Ingredients:
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar
– 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together garlic, lemon juice, vinegar, Dijon mustard, and honey until well combined.
2. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add more lemon juice or honey depending on your preference.
3. Store the vinaigrette in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Cooking Time: None
Use this versatile vinaigrette to elevate salads, grilled meats, and vegetables. Simply whisk well before using.
Honey Mustard Lemon Vinaigrette
Elevate your salads with a tangy and sweet dressing that combines the richness of honey, the zip of mustard, and the brightness of lemon.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon pure honey
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and honey until smooth.
2. Add the lemon juice and whisk until combined.
3. Slowly pour in the olive oil while continuously whisking until the vinaigrette is emulsified.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Store any leftover dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Cook Time: 0 minutes (assembling only)
Lemon Herb Vinaigrette with Thyme
Brighten up your salads and dishes with this refreshing lemon herb vinaigrette, infused with the subtle flavor of thyme. This recipe is perfect for spring and summer when fresh herbs are in season.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and salt until dissolved.
2. Add the chopped thyme and whisk until well combined.
3. Slowly pour in the olive oil while continuously whisking until smooth.
4. Stir in the white wine or apple cider vinegar.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: None! This vinaigrette is ready to use immediately.
Yield: Approximately 1/2 cup
Spicy Lemon Chili Vinaigrette
Elevate your salads with this bold and zesty vinaigrette, perfect for warm weather or as a tangy condiment.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1-2 teaspoons hot sauce (depending on desired level of heat)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, cumin, smoked paprika, and salt until well combined.
2. Slowly pour in the olive oil while continuously whisking the mixture until it is smooth and emulsified.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more hot sauce for an extra kick.
4. Store leftover vinaigrette in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Cooking Time: None! Simply whisk together and serve.
Lemon Balsamic Vinaigrette
Brighten up your salads with this refreshing and tangy Lemon Balsamic Vinaigrette, perfect for spring and summer gatherings. This vinaigrette is a versatile condiment that can be used on a variety of greens, fruits, and vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and balsamic vinegar until well combined.
2. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while continuously whisking until emulsified.
3. Add Dijon mustard and whisk until smooth.
4. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: None
Lemon Poppy Seed Vinaigrette
Brighten up your salads with this easy-to-make Lemon Poppy Seed Vinaigrette. With its tangy lemon flavor and crunchy texture from the poppy seeds, this vinaigrette is perfect for spring and summer salads.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
2. Slowly pour in the olive oil while continuously whisking the mixture until it’s smooth and emulsified.
3. Stir in the poppy seeds.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: None
Lemon Dijon Vinaigrette
Brighten up your salads with this refreshing Lemon Dijon Vinaigrette! This classic French-inspired condiment combines the tanginess of lemon juice, the creaminess of dijon mustard, and a hint of sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and dijon mustard until well combined.
2. Slowly pour in the olive oil while continuously whisking until emulsified.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: None! This vinaigrette is ready to use immediately.
Use this versatile vinaigrette on salads, as a marinade for chicken or fish, or as a sauce for grilled meats or vegetables. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Lemon Ginger Vinaigrette
Brighten up your salads with this refreshing Lemon Ginger Vinaigrette! Made with just a few simple ingredients, this citrusy condiment is perfect for dressing greens, grains, or as a marinade.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup neutral-tasting oil (such as canola or grapeseed)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, honey, and grated ginger until well combined.
2. Slowly pour in the oil while continuously whisking the mixture until smooth and emulsified.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Cooking Time: None! This vinaigrette is ready when it’s made.
Lemon Basil Vinaigrette
Brighten up your salads with the zesty and refreshing flavors of lemon and basil in this easy-to-make vinaigrette.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, vinegar, garlic, and basil until well combined.
2. Slowly pour in the olive oil while continuously whisking the mixture until it’s smooth and emulsified.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: None! This vinaigrette is ready to use immediately.
Use this vinaigrette as a dressing for your favorite salads, or as a marinade for grilled meats or vegetables. Enjoy!
Lemon Tahini Vinaigrette
This creamy and zesty vinaigrette combines the richness of tahini with the brightness of lemon, perfect for elevating your favorite salads or using as a marinade.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup tahini
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 3 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine tahini, lemon juice, vinegar, mustard, and salt. Blend until smooth.
2. Add garlic (if using) and blend until well combined.
3. With the blender or food processor running, slowly pour in olive oil through the top.
4. Continue blending until the vinaigrette is emulsified and creamy.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Yield: About 1/2 cup (enough for 4-6 salads)
Lemon Maple Vinaigrette
Lemon Maple Vinaigrette: A tangy and sweet condiment perfect for dressing salads, grilled meats, or as a marinade.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup maple syrup
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, lemon juice, and apple cider vinegar until well combined.
2. Add Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper; whisk until smooth.
3. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: None! This vinaigrette is ready to use immediately.
Note: You can store this vinaigrette in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Give it a good stir before using.
Lemon Avocado Vinaigrette
Elevate your salads with this tangy and creamy vinaigrette, made with the freshness of lemons and the richness of avocados.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe avocado, peeled and pitted
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine the avocado, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth.
2. With the blender or food processor still running, slowly pour in the olive oil through the top. Continue blending until well combined.
3. Add the Dijon mustard and blend until smooth.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Lemon Shallot Vinaigrette
Elevate your salads with this bright and tangy lemon shallot vinaigrette, perfect for springtime gatherings or everyday meals. With its subtle sweetness from caramelized shallots and a burst of citrus flavor, this dressing is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves shallots, thinly sliced and caramelized (see note)
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine olive oil, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, caramelized shallots, and Dijon mustard.
2. Blend on low speed until smooth and emulsified.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Caramelizing Shallots: Cook thinly sliced shallots over medium heat with a pinch of salt, stirring frequently, until they turn golden brown and fragrant (about 20-25 minutes). Let cool before using.
Cooking Time: None. Simply blend the ingredients together!
Lemon Rosemary Vinaigrette
Lemon Rosemary Vinaigrette Recipe: A Bright and Herbaceous Condiment
This refreshing vinaigrette combines the zesty flavor of lemon with the earthy aroma of rosemary, perfect for dressing salads, grilled meats, or vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and apple cider vinegar until well combined.
2. Slowly pour in the olive oil while continuously whisking until smooth and emulsified.
3. Add chopped rosemary leaves and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: None! Simply prepare and use immediately.
Lemon Mint Vinaigrette
Brighten up your salads with this refreshing Lemon Mint Vinaigrette! This zesty and citrusy dressing combines the sweetness of lemons with the coolness of mint, creating a perfect harmony of flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
2. Add the chopped mint leaves and whisk until they are fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
3. Slowly pour in the olive oil while continuously whisking the mixture until it’s emulsified.
4. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: None! This vinaigrette is ready to use immediately.
Lemon Feta Vinaigrette
Elevate your salads with this refreshing vinaigrette, featuring the tanginess of feta cheese and the brightness of lemon.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
2. Add the crumbled feta cheese and whisk until smooth.
3. Slowly pour in the olive oil while continuously whisking the mixture until it’s fully incorporated and emulsified.
4. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: None! This vinaigrette is ready to use immediately.
Use this Lemon Feta Vinaigrette to add a burst of citrusy flavor to your favorite salads, or use it as a marinade for grilled meats or vegetables. Enjoy!
Lemon Parmesan Vinaigrette
Add a burst of citrusy flavor to your salads with this refreshing Lemon Parmesan Vinaigrette. Made with just a few simple ingredients, this dressing is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, mustard, and salt until well combined.
2. Slowly pour in olive oil while continuously whisking the mixture until smooth.
3. Stir in Parmesan cheese and white wine vinegar until fully incorporated.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: None! This vinaigrette is ready to use immediately.
Lemon Cilantro Lime Vinaigrette
Elevate your salads with this refreshing vinaigrette, bursting with the flavors of lemon, cilantro, and lime. Perfect for warm weather or as a tangy accompaniment to grilled meats.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine lemon juice, olive oil, cilantro, lime juice, and Dijon mustard.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if desired.
4. Transfer to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Cooking Time: None! Simply blend and serve.
Lemon Sesame Vinaigrette
Lemon Sesame Vinaigrette Recipe
Add a bright and tangy flavor to your salads with this simple Lemon Sesame Vinaigrette recipe. Perfect for spring and summer, it’s a great way to elevate your greens game.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, sesame oil, garlic, and Dijon mustard until well combined.
2. Slowly add the vegetable oil while continuously whisking until emulsified.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Tips: This vinaigrette is great on spinach, arugula, or mixed greens salads. You can also use it as a marinade for grilled meats or vegetables. Store any leftover vinaigrette in the fridge for up to 1 week.
Lemon Turmeric Vinaigrette
Brighten up your salads with this refreshing and flavorful Lemon Turmeric Vinaigrette! This condiment combines the citrusy zing of lemon juice, the earthy warmth of turmeric, and a hint of sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1/4 cup neutral-tasting oil (such as canola or grapeseed)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: honey or maple syrup for added sweetness
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, vinegar, mustard, and turmeric until smooth.
2. Slowly pour in the oil while continuously whisking until the mixture emulsifies.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. If desired, add honey or maple syrup (start with 1/4 teaspoon and adjust to taste).
5. Store leftover vinaigrette in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: None! Simply whisk and serve.
Summary
Get ready to elevate your salad game with these 20 zesty lemon vinaigrette recipes! From classic combinations like Lemon Garlic and Honey Mustard, to more adventurous flavors like Spicy Chili and Turmeric, there’s something for every taste bud. Try adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to your greens, or mix things up with herbs like thyme, rosemary, and mint. With these versatile vinaigrettes, you’ll never run out of ways to add some zest to your salad.
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