Lemon Herb Vinaigrette
A bright and zesty homemade vinaigrette that brings any salad to life. Made with fresh lemon juice, olive oil, and a mix of herbs, this dressing is incredibly fresh and completely salt-free.
For 4 servings
- prep
Prepare the fresh ingredients.
Finely mince the garlic clove. Wash and finely chop the fresh parsley and dill.
TIPThe finer you mince the garlic and herbs, the better they will incorporate into the dressing. - mix
Combine all ingredients.
1.In a small bowl or a jar with a tight-fitting lid, add the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and salt-free Dijon mustard.2.Add the minced garlic, chopped parsley, chopped dill, and a pinch of freshly ground black pepper. - mix
Whisk or shake to emulsify.
If using a bowl, whisk vigorously until the dressing is well combined and slightly thickened (emulsified). If using a jar, seal the lid tightly and shake well for about 30 seconds until everything is blended.
TIPShaking in a jar is the easiest way to create a stable emulsion that won't separate quickly. - serve
Serve or store the vinaigrette.
Use the vinaigrette immediately to dress your favorite salad. Alternatively, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Shake well before each use as it may separate upon standing.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For a creamier texture, you can blend all the ingredients in a small blender or with an immersion blender.
- 2Let the dressing rest for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
- 3Feel free to experiment with other fresh herbs like chives, basil, or oregano.
- 4If you don't have fresh herbs, you can substitute with 1 teaspoon of dried herbs, but the flavor will be less vibrant.
Adapt it for your goals.
Healthy
Use extra virgin olive oil for its heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants. Ensure your mustard is completely salt-free.
quickQuick
If you're short on time, use 1 teaspoon of a dried Italian herb blend instead of fresh parsley and dill.
kid friendlyKid friendly
Add 1/2 teaspoon of honey or maple syrup to balance the acidity and make the flavor milder for children.
Why this is on our healthy list.
No Added Sodium
This dressing is made without any salt, making it an excellent choice for a low-sodium diet to support healthy blood pressure levels.
Heart-Healthy Fats
Made with extra virgin olive oil, this vinaigrette is a good source of monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health.
Rich in Vitamin C
The use of fresh lemon juice provides a good boost of Vitamin C, an important antioxidant that supports the immune system.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, this version is very healthy. It uses heart-healthy olive oil, is free from added salt and preservatives, and gets its vibrant flavor from fresh, natural ingredients like lemon and herbs.
