Lemon-Herb Vinaigrette
A bright and zesty salt-free dressing that comes together in minutes. Fresh lemon juice, fragrant herbs, and good olive oil create a simple vinaigrette perfect for salads, beans, or grilled vegetables.
For 4 servings
2 steps.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Combine and whisk the ingredients
- b.In a small bowl or a jar with a lid, add the lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic.
- c.Whisk the mixture together until it's well combined.
- d.While whisking continuously, slowly pour in the extra virgin olive oil. Keep whisking until the dressing emulsifies and looks slightly thickened.
- e.Stir in the chopped fresh parsley, dill, and freshly ground black pepper.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Serve or store
- b.Use the vinaigrette immediately to dress your favorite salad or vegetables.
- c.Alternatively, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Shake well before each use.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For a quick mix, add all ingredients to a jar with a tight-fitting lid and shake vigorously for 30 seconds until emulsified.
- 2Feel free to swap the herbs. Fresh chives, basil, or oregano would also be delicious.
- 3If the dressing solidifies in the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes, then shake well before serving.
- 4For a slightly sweeter note to balance the tang, whisk in half a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup.
Adapt it for your goals.
Quick
If you're out of fresh herbs, substitute with 1 teaspoon of a dried Italian herb blend.
healthyHealthy
To lower the fat content, use 4 tablespoons of olive oil and add 2 tablespoons of water. The mustard will help it emulsify.
budget friendlyBudget friendly
Use regular olive oil instead of extra virgin and dried herbs instead of fresh for a more economical version.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Heart-Healthy Fats
Extra virgin olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats, which are known to support cardiovascular health and reduce bad cholesterol levels.
Rich in Vitamin C
Fresh lemon juice is an excellent source of Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage and supports a healthy immune system.
Salt-Free Flavor
This dressing provides a burst of fresh, tangy flavor to your meals without any added sodium, making it ideal for those monitoring their salt intake.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it's a very healthy choice. It's made with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats from olive oil and contains no added sugar or salt. It's a much better option than many store-bought creamy dressings.