Learn how to make this simple Vinaigrette Recipe in just five minutes! Made with olive oil, lemon juice, mustard, and seasonings, this ultra-flavorful dressing is preservative-free and versatile. It’s perfect for drizzling over salads, tossing with roasted vegetables, or using as a marinade—adding a burst of fresh, tangy flavor to any dish!
There are a few pantry staples that I always like to have on hand, including this basic Vinaigrette Recipe. Homemade vinaigrette is one of the easiest kitchen staples you can make. Simply toss the ingredients in a jar, then whisk (or shake) them together, and you’re done! It’s really that simple.
We eat tons of green salads, especially in the spring and summer, so I make this salad dressing recipe at least once a week if not more. I prefer homemade vinaigrette dressings over store-bought ones because I can use fresh ingredients and avoid preservatives.
Of course, this super simple lemon vinaigrette recipe is great for salads, but honestly, we drizzle it on everything! You can use it as a dressing, marinade, or dip – there are so many ways to enjoy this homemade vinaigrette.
Ingredients To Make Vinaigrette
Acid – After testing this recipe with various acids, I’ve found that fresh lemon juice is my favorite for a bright, zesty flavor. However, you can also use white vinegar, red wine vinegar, balsamic vinegar, or even apple cider vinegar, depending on your preference.
Oil – Extra-virgin olive oil is the base for this dressing, and after making it many times, I’ve found that a good quality olive oil really enhances the flavor.
Garlic – I prefer garlic that’s very finely minced or crushed. If you don’t typically like fresh garlic, try crushing it instead of chopping it. This helps the garlic spread easily through the dressing so it won’t be as strong.
Dijon Mustard – Dijon mustard is key in this recipe because it helps emulsify the dressing, creating a smooth, cohesive texture. If you’re not a fan of whole-grain Dijon, you can try honey mustard.
Seasonings – I keep it simple with just sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.
How To Make Vinaigrette
First: Crush garlic with a garlic press.
Second: Add the garlic and whole-grain Dijon mustard to a mason jar or small bowl.
Next: Pour in the lemon juice and season with salt and pepper. Whisk or shake (with the lid on!) to combine.
Finally: Slowly whisk in the extra virgin olive oil. Taste and adjust the seasonings, if needed. Drizzle it on your favorite salad and enjoy this delicious homemade salad dressing!
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Note: Vinaigrette can easily separate, so I always give it a shake or whisk it before serving.
This vinaigrette recipe pairs well with any salad like Greek salads with tomatoes, cucumber and feta cheese and Italian pasta salad. But I also love adding it to cooked quinoa or couscous to give it a flavorful upgrade.
It’s delicious over roasted veggies like asparagus, potatoes, broccoli or cauliflower, and I love using it as a quick, flavorful marinade for all kinds of protein—chicken, beef, seafood, and more!
And let’s not forget that fresh garlic bread with vinaigrette for dipping is the perfect appetizer!
Fresh herbs: If you have herbs on hand like fresh parsley or thyme, they make a great addition to this recipe!
Add more flavor: Some other good add-ins include minced shallot, miso paste, anchovies, or roasted garlic. You can also replace the lemon juice with your favorite vinegar
Make it creamy: Mix in a dollop of Greek yogurt to make the vinaigrette smooth and creamy.
More Homemade Pantry Staples
Vinaigrette Recipe – Homemade Lemon Garlic Dressing in Minutes!
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon clove garlic
- 1 teaspoon whole grain dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice or white-wine vinegar
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 6 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
Instructions
- Finely mince a clove of garlic. Place it in a mason jar with the whole grain dijon mustard. Pour the lemon juice into the mixture with kosher salt and black pepper.
- Whisk to combine all the ingredients. Slowly pour extra-virgin olive oil, whisking as you go to mix.
- Taste to check the seasoning and it is done. Enjoy it on your favorite salad!
Notes
- For a little sweetness, you can add a splash of honey or maple syrup.
- Instead of whisking, you can add everything to a mason jar, tighten the lid, and shake to combine. Then use the same jar to store the vinaigrette.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Did You Make This?
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I love your vinaigrette recipe – homemade is definitely the way to go. I have so many different kinds of vinegars that I use to change things up.
I’ve never made my own salad dressing (outside of lemon and oil haha) so this looks awesome! Love the photos, too 🙂
perfect, thanks for the recipe. i’ve been searching for a good vinaigrette recipe – will definitely be trying this one out.
So glad you like it, Thalia. Thanks a lot for stopping by 😉
Any substitute for whole grain Dijon mustard?thank you in advance Olivia
Sureva, if you don’t want to use whole grain Dijon you can use the normal Dijon. I hope it can help you 😉