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A bright, citrus-packed lemon vinaigrette made from fresh lemon juice and zest, extra-virgin olive oil, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. This versatile dressing can be used on salads, roasted vegetables, as a marinade, or as a dip. It has a smooth, emulsified texture and is quick and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 teaspoons lemon zest (about 1 medium lemon)
  • ½ cup fresh lemon juice (juice from 3–4 lemons)
  • ⅓ cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon pure honey or maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • ¾ teaspoon fine salt
  • ⅛ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Zest the lemons first, scraping only the bright yellow peel and avoiding the bitter white pith (about 2 teaspoons).
  2. Slice the zested lemons in half and squeeze out about ½ cup fresh lemon juice (3–4 lemons).
  3. Combine the lemon juice and zest with honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a bowl or a sealed mason jar.
  4. If using a bowl, slowly pour in ⅓ cup extra-virgin olive oil while whisking continuously until the dressing thickens and emulsifies into a smooth, creamy texture.
  5. If using a jar, add the oil, screw on the lid, and shake vigorously for 15–30 seconds until creamy and well combined.
  6. Taste the vinaigrette and adjust seasoning—add more sweetener to sweeten or an extra pinch of salt to balance.
  7. If the oil and lemon have separated after resting or chilling, shake or stir the dressing before using to re-emulsify.

Notes

Always zest lemons before slicing and juicing to capture all the fragrant oils from the peel without waste., Using a mason jar to shake the vinaigrette helps emulsify it quickly and easily., Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. Let come to room temperature for 15 minutes and shake well before use to restore creamy texture., Flavor variations include adding minced garlic or shallots, dried herbs (oregano, Greek seasoning, Italian seasoning), or fresh herbs and cheeses like crumbled feta or shaved Parmesan for extra flavor.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://gingerbaking.com/the-best-lemon-vinaigrette-recipe/