Zesty Dijon Lemon Garlic Vinaigrette
Elevate your salads with this refreshing Zesty Dijon Lemon Garlic Vinaigrette. The tangy lemon juice balances perfectly with the rich, earthy notes of Dijon mustard, while the aromatic garlic adds a delightful kick. This versatile dressing is not only perfect for a simple lettuce and tomato salad but also enhances grilled vegetables, marinated meats, or crisp grain bowls. Light, flavorful, and easy to make, it will become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
Fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon (juiced)
Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon (none)
Fresh ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon (none)
Sea salt
1/8 teaspoon (none)
Garlic
1 clove (finely minced)
Olive oil
3 tablespoons (none)
Instructions
1
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, freshly ground black pepper, sea salt, and minced garlic.
2
Whisk the mixture together until all ingredients are well blended.
3
Gradually add the olive oil while continuing to whisk. Keep whisking until the dressing emulsifies, achieving a slightly thicker consistency.
4
Taste and adjust the seasoning, if necessary, before serving over your favorite salads or dishes.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Zesty Dijon Lemon Garlic Vinaigrette?
It is a refreshing, tangy salad dressing made with lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic, perfect for salads, grilled vegetables, and meats.
How many ingredients are required for this recipe?
This recipe requires 6 main ingredients: lemon juice, Dijon mustard, black pepper, sea salt, garlic, and olive oil.
What are the primary flavor components of this dressing?
The dressing features tangy lemon juice, earthy Dijon mustard, and a delightful kick from fresh garlic.
Is this vinaigrette recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this dressing is completely vegetarian and also vegan-friendly.
Can I use this vinaigrette as a marinade?
Absolutely! This versatile dressing works perfectly as a marinade for meats or as a flavor enhancer for grilled vegetables.
How should I store any leftover dressing?
Store any leftover vinaigrette in an airtight container or a jar in the refrigerator.
How long does the Zesty Dijon Lemon Garlic Vinaigrette stay fresh?
When stored in the refrigerator, it will typically remain fresh and flavorful for 3 to 5 days.
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
While fresh lemon juice provides the best flavor, bottled lemon juice can be used as a substitute if necessary.
What type of mustard is best for this recipe?
This recipe specifically calls for Dijon mustard to provide a rich, sharp flavor profile.
Is this salad dressing gluten-free?
Yes, the ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free, making it a safe choice for those with gluten sensitivities.
How do I get the dressing to emulsify?
Slowly whisk in the olive oil while continuously mixing to help the dressing achieve a slightly thicker, emulsified consistency.
Can I substitute olive oil with another oil?
Yes, you can use other neutral oils like avocado oil or grapeseed oil, though olive oil offers the most traditional flavor.
Is this a quick recipe to prepare?
Yes, this is a quick and easy recipe that can be whisked together in just a few minutes.
Can I add a sweetener like honey?
Yes, you can add a touch of honey or maple syrup if you prefer a sweeter balance to the tangy lemon.
What dishes go well with this vinaigrette?
It pairs beautifully with green salads, tomato salads, crisp grain bowls, and even roasted vegetables.
How much garlic is needed?
The recipe requires 1 clove of garlic, finely minced.
Can I use a blender to mix the ingredients?
Yes, using a blender or a small food processor can help create a very smooth and well-emulsified dressing.
What should I do if the dressing separates in the fridge?
Separation is natural; simply give the jar a good shake or whisk it again before serving.
Is this vinaigrette keto-friendly?
Yes, this dressing is low in carbohydrates and high in healthy fats, making it suitable for a ketogenic diet.
Can I use lime juice instead of lemon juice?
Yes, lime juice can be used as a substitute, though it will give the vinaigrette a more citrusy, tropical flavor.
Does this recipe contain cholesterol?
No, this recipe is plant-based and contains zero cholesterol.
Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh minced garlic?
Fresh garlic is best for the 'zesty' profile, but you can use about 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder if you are in a hurry.
What kind of salt should I use?
Sea salt is recommended for its clean flavor, but kosher salt is also a great alternative.
How much olive oil is required?
The recipe calls for 3 tablespoons of olive oil.
Is this vinaigrette spicy?
It is not spicy in terms of heat, but it is flavorful and zesty due to the garlic and black pepper.
Can I make a larger batch?
Yes, you can easily double or triple the ingredients to make a larger quantity for meal prep or gatherings.
What role does the Dijon mustard play?
Beyond flavor, the Dijon mustard acts as an emulsifier to help the oil and lemon juice stay combined.
Can I add fresh herbs to this recipe?
Yes, fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or thyme would be excellent additions to this base recipe.
Does this recipe contain dairy?
No, this Zesty Dijon Lemon Garlic Vinaigrette is completely dairy-free.
Is it healthier than store-bought dressing?
Generally yes, as it contains fresh ingredients and no added preservatives or highly processed sugars.