Zesty Lemon-Oregano Vinaigrette
Elevate your salads with this refreshing Zesty Lemon-Oregano Vinaigrette! Combining the richness of extra-virgin olive oil with the bright acidity of freshly squeezed lemon juice, this dressing brings a burst of flavor to any dish. Fresh oregano adds a herbaceous note that perfectly complements your greens, while minced garlic introduces a subtle yet tantalizing kick. Not only does this vinaigrette enhance baby greens for a simple side salad, but it can also transform a heartier dish when paired with crunchy romaine, juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, creamy feta, and briny olives. Perfect for summer barbecues or light lunches, you'll want to drizzle this versatile dressing on everything!
N/A
Servings
80
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
extra virgin olive oil
1/4 cup
fresh lemon juice
1/4 cup (freshly squeezed)
fresh oregano
2 teaspoons (minced)
garlic cloves
2 (minced)
sugar
1/2 teaspoon
fresh ground pepper
1/4 teaspoon (to taste)
salt
1/8 teaspoon (to taste)
Instructions
1
In a small bowl, combine the extra-virgin olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, minced oregano, minced garlic, sugar, salt, and pepper.
2
Whisk the mixture until all ingredients are well-blended and the sugar has dissolved completely.
3
Taste the vinaigrette and adjust the seasoning by adding more salt, pepper, or sugar according to your preference.
4
Let the vinaigrette sit at room temperature for about an hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
5
Before serving, whisk the dressing again to ensure a smooth consistency. Drizzle over your favorite salads and enjoy!
Nutrition Information
9g
Fat
1.25g
Carbs
0g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Zesty Lemon-Oregano Vinaigrette?
It is a refreshing salad dressing that combines extra-virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and aromatic herbs for a bright, Mediterranean flavor profile.
What are the primary ingredients in this recipe?
The key ingredients are extra-virgin olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, minced fresh oregano, minced garlic, sugar, salt, and freshly ground pepper.
How many calories are in a serving of this vinaigrette?
There are approximately 80 calories per serving of this dressing.
How much fat is in this lemon-oregano dressing?
This recipe contains 9g of fat per serving, primarily from the extra-virgin olive oil.
Are there many carbohydrates in this vinaigrette?
No, it is very low in carbs, containing only 1.25g of carbohydrates per serving.
How do I prepare the garlic for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 2 garlic cloves that should be finely minced before being added to the mixture.
Should I use fresh or dried oregano?
The recipe specifically recommends 2 teaspoons of minced fresh oregano for the best herbaceous flavor.
What is the first step in making the vinaigrette?
The first step is to combine the olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, garlic, sugar, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
Do I need to let the dressing sit before using it?
Yes, it is recommended to let the vinaigrette sit at room temperature for about an hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
What is the purpose of adding sugar to the dressing?
A small amount of sugar (1/2 teaspoon) is used to balance the acidity of the fresh lemon juice.
Is this vinaigrette suitable for a Mediterranean diet?
Yes, with its base of olive oil, lemon, and garlic, it fits perfectly within Mediterranean flavor profiles.
What type of salads pair best with this dressing?
It works well with simple baby greens, crunchy romaine, tomatoes, cucumbers, feta cheese, and olives.
Can I use this vinaigrette for summer barbecues?
Absolutely, its bright and zesty flavor makes it an excellent choice for light summer meals and outdoor gatherings.
How should I adjust the seasoning?
After whisking, taste the dressing and add more salt, pepper, or sugar according to your personal preference.
Does the dressing contain any protein?
This vinaigrette contains 0g of protein.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 7 total ingredients: olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, garlic, sugar, pepper, and salt.
What kind of olive oil is recommended?
The recipe specifies using extra-virgin olive oil for the best quality and flavor.
How do I ensure the dressing is smooth?
Whisk the mixture until the sugar has completely dissolved and whisk it again right before serving.
Is the lemon juice freshly squeezed?
Yes, the recipe calls for 1/4 cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice for maximum brightness.
Can I use this as a marinade?
While primarily a dressing, its ingredients make it a versatile choice that can also enhance heartier vegetable or protein dishes.
Is this recipe considered healthy?
Yes, it is a healthy dressing option made with fresh ingredients and heart-healthy olive oil.
Does this vinaigrette contain cholesterol?
Based on the nutritional data, this dressing contains no cholesterol.
What is the serving size for the nutrition facts?
The nutrition data provided is per serving, though the exact volume of a single serving is not specified.
How much salt is used?
The recipe starts with 1/8 teaspoon of salt, but suggests adding more to taste.
How much pepper should I add?
The recipe suggests 1/4 teaspoon of fresh ground pepper, adjusted to taste.
Can I make this in advance?
Yes, making it an hour ahead is actually encouraged to help the flavors develop.
Is this recipe easy to make?
Yes, it is tagged as an easy recipe that involves simple whisking and minimal prep.
What is the preparation time for the oregano?
The oregano just needs to be minced, which takes only a minute or two.
Is there any fiber in this dressing?
The nutritional information indicates that there is no significant fiber content in this vinaigrette.
Why should I whisk the dressing again before serving?
Whisking again ensures that the oil and lemon juice are properly emulsified and the ingredients are evenly distributed.