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Fresh Lemon Vinaigrette Dressing Recipe with Honey and Dijon Mustard

fresh lemon vinaigrette dressing - featured image

A quick and easy fresh lemon vinaigrette dressing combining bright acidity, sweetness from honey, and a tangy kick of Dijon mustard. Perfect for salads and versatile enough to enhance many dishes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (from about 1 large lemon)
  • 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil (80 ml)
  • 2 teaspoons honey (10 ml)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (5 ml)
  • 1 small clove garlic, finely minced or grated (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon sea salt (1.5 ml)
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Juice your lemon using a citrus juicer or by hand, collecting about 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of fresh lemon juice in a mixing bowl. Strain if necessary to remove seeds.
  2. Add 2 teaspoons (10 ml) of honey and 1 teaspoon (5 ml) of Dijon mustard to the lemon juice. Whisk together until smooth and slightly thickened.
  3. If using, add the minced or grated garlic and stir to combine.
  4. Slowly drizzle in 1/3 cup (80 ml) of extra-virgin olive oil while whisking constantly to emulsify the dressing into a creamy texture.
  5. Season with 1/4 teaspoon (1.5 ml) sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Whisk again and adjust seasoning if needed.
  6. Let the dressing rest for 5-10 minutes at room temperature to allow flavors to meld and garlic to mellow.
  7. Use immediately by drizzling over salad and tossing well, or store in a jar in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Shake or whisk before use.

Notes

If the dressing separates, whisk vigorously or add a teaspoon of warm water to re-emulsify. For a creamier texture, blend briefly in a food processor or add a teaspoon of tahini or plain yogurt. Adjust sweetness or acidity by adding more honey or lemon juice to taste. Fresh herbs, red pepper flakes, or mustard variations can be added for flavor twists.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon vinaigrette, salad dressing, honey mustard dressing, fresh lemon dressing, easy vinaigrette, healthy dressing, homemade dressing