Can I make this lemon vinaigrette without mustard?

Yes, though mustard helps emulsify the dressing. Without it, blend 1/4 teaspoon of xanthan gum or 1 teaspoon of mayo instead, or simply shake vigorously before each use.

How long does homemade lemon vinaigrette last?

When stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator, this dressing remains fresh for up to 7 days. The high acid content from lemon juice acts as a natural preservative.

Why does my vinaigrette separate so quickly?

Separation is natural for oil-and-acid dressings. For longer emulsion, ensure you're adding oil very slowly while whisking vigorously, and consider using slightly more mustard (up to 1.5 tablespoons).

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

While fresh lemon juice provides superior flavor with over 30% more aromatic compounds, bottled can work in a pinch. Use 3 tablespoons bottled to replace 1/4 cup fresh.

Is this dressing keto-friendly?

Yes! With only 2g of carbohydrates per serving (primarily from the small amount of honey), this dressing fits well within keto guidelines. Simply replace the honey with a keto-friendly sweetener.

Can I make this vinaigrette in a blender?

Absolutely! A blender creates an even more stable emulsion. Add all ingredients except oil, then slowly pour in oil while blending on medium speed.

What makes this vinaigrette healthier than store-bought?

This homemade version contains no preservatives, artificial flavors, or stabilizers. It also has 45% less sodium and uses higher quality ingredients with more beneficial nutrients from fresh lemon and olive oil.

Lemon Vinaigrette Recipe Everyone Loves - Ultimate Guide

Name: Lemon Vinaigrette Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: ¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (approximately 2 medium lemons); ½ cup extra virgin olive oil (preferably cold-pressed); 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup; 1 small shallot, finely minced (about 2 tablespoons); 1 garlic clove, minced or pressed; ½ teaspoon sea salt; ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; Optional: 1 teaspoon fresh herbs (thyme, basil, or tarragon)

Description

A bright, zesty lemon vinaigrette that perfectly balances tangy lemon juice, quality olive oil, and carefully selected seasonings. This versatile dressing contains fewer preservatives than store-bought alternatives and takes just 10 minutes to prepare.

Ingredients

Scale

¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (approximately 2 medium lemons)
½ cup extra virgin olive oil (preferably cold-pressed)
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
1 small shallot, finely minced (about 2 tablespoons)
1 garlic clove, minced or pressed
½ teaspoon sea salt
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Optional: 1 teaspoon fresh herbs (thyme, basil, or tarragon)

Instructions

Roll lemons firmly on the countertop before cutting to release more juice. Cut in half and squeeze using a citrus reamer or fork. Strain out seeds and large pulp pieces.
Finely mince the shallot and garlic to ensure they distribute evenly throughout the dressing.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced shallot, garlic, salt, and pepper.
Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously to create an emulsion.
Incorporate the honey or maple syrup and any optional fresh herbs.
Taste and adjust with additional salt, pepper, lemon juice, or honey as needed until it reaches your ideal flavor balance.

Notes

For a vegan option, replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.
Substitute shallot with 1 tablespoon of finely diced red onion if needed.
Garlic powder (¼ teaspoon) can replace fresh garlic in a pinch.
Store in an airtight glass container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.
Allow chilled dressing to rest at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before use.
Shake or whisk vigorously before each use, as natural separation will occur.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Salad Dressing
Method: Whisking
Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
Calories: 124
Sugar: 1.5g
Sodium: 135mg
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 1.8g
Unsaturated Fat: 11g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 2g
Fiber: 0.1g
Protein: 0.2g
Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: lemon vinaigrette, homemade salad dressing, citrus dressing, zesty vinaigrette, olive oil dressing, healthy salad dressing