Lemon-Herb Vinaigrette
A bright, tangy dressing that enhances salads and vegetables with a perfect balance of citrus and herbs. This mediterranean-inspired sauces & condiments (vegan) ready in about 10 minutes blends fresh lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, Dijon mustard into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 120 calories and feeds 8, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.
Ingredients
- 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 clove, minced garlic
- 1/2 tsp honey
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/8 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Step 1: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice, 4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, 1 minced garlic clove, 1/2 tsp honey, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/8 tsp black pepper until emulsified and smooth.
- Step 2: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more lemon juice for tang or honey for sweetness.
- Step 3: Transfer to a clean jar with a tight-fitting lid and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld before using.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Lemon-Herb Vinaigrette take to make?
Total time is about 10 minutes (10 min prep + 0 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.
How do I store leftover Lemon-Herb Vinaigrette?
Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.
Can I substitute ingredients in Lemon-Herb Vinaigrette?
Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.
How do I scale Lemon-Herb Vinaigrette for a different number of people?
The recipe is written for 8 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 8). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.
Is Lemon-Herb Vinaigrette vegan?
Yes — this recipe is tagged vegan based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.
What others are saying
- ★★★★★
Loved it! Used it on my weekend BBQ chicken. The lemon was perfectly balanced.
- ★★★★★
Elevated my smoked tofu bowl instantly. The mint made it feel fresh.
- ★★★★★
This is my go-to for smoky grilled zucchini. The garlic in it is divine.
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