Perfect Lemon Vinaigrette
The ultimate dressing for any salad, this Perfect Lemon Vinaigrette is zesty, light, and incredibly easy to make. Bursting with fresh flavors, it transforms ordinary dishes into extraordinary meals. Whip it up tonight for a delightful twist on your favorite salads!
Equipment
- Whisk
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice
- 1 tablespoon Honey
- 2 teaspoons Dijon Mustard
- 1 clove Garlic minced
- to taste Salt and Pepper
- 1/2 cup Olive Oil
- 1 teaspoon Fresh Thyme Leaves
Instructions
- Start by gathering all your ingredients: the fresh lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Having everything ready makes the process smooth and enjoyable.
- Next, in a medium-sized bowl, combine the lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic. Whisk these ingredients together until well blended. You want to create a smooth mixture that will serve as the base of your vinaigrette.
- Once the initial ingredients are combined, it’s time to season! Add a pinch of salt and freshly cracked black pepper to the mixture. This seasoning will enhance all the flavors, so taste as you go and adjust accordingly.
- Now, while whisking constantly, slowly drizzle in the olive oil. This step is crucial as it helps emulsify the dressing, creating a creamy texture that clings beautifully to your salads.
- After incorporating the olive oil, take a moment to taste your vinaigrette. Depending on your preference, you may want to add more salt, pepper, or even a splash more of lemon juice for extra zing!
- Next, pull the fresh thyme leaves off their stems. Add them to the dressing and give it a good stir. The thyme will infuse the vinaigrette with wonderful herbal notes that elevate the overall flavor.
- Once everything is combined, transfer your Perfect Lemon Vinaigrette to a jar or airtight container. This makes it easy to store in the refrigerator and shake it up whenever you need it.
- Finally, let the dressing sit for at least 15 minutes before using it. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a vinaigrette that’s bursting with freshness!
Notes
There’s always room for creativity in cooking, and the same goes for this vinaigrette! Here are some tips to help you customize your Perfect Lemon Vinaigrette to suit your tastes:
- Storage: After making your vinaigrette, store it in a sealed jar in the fridge. It can last up to one week, but it’s best enjoyed fresh.
- Freezing: If you want to make a larger batch, consider freezing portions in ice cube trays. You can then pop out a cube whenever you need a quick dressing!
- Pairing: This vinaigrette goes wonderfully with mixed greens, roasted vegetables, or as a marinade for proteins.
- Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs! Basil, oregano, or even dill can add unique flavors.
- Spicy Kick: If you like a little heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy twist.
- Sweetness Level: Adjust the level of honey to your preference. You can even use maple syrup for a different flavor.
- Different Oils: While olive oil is classic, trying avocado oil or walnut oil can bring a new dimension to your vinaigrette.