Lemon Vinaigrette
A bright, zesty, and heart-healthy vinaigrette made with extra virgin olive oil and fresh lemon juice. This simple homemade dressing is completely salt-free, perfect for adding rich flavor to salads without any sodium.
For 6 servings
- prep
Prepare the lemon juice.
Cut the lemon in half and squeeze the juice into a small bowl or measuring cup. You will need 2 tablespoons of fresh juice.
TIPRoll the lemon firmly on the counter before cutting to help release more juice. - mix
Combine all ingredients.
1.Pour the extra virgin olive oil and fresh lemon juice into a small jar with a tight-fitting lid.2.Add the garlic powder, dried oregano, dried basil, and a pinch of freshly ground black pepper.3.Seal the jar tightly. - serve
Shake and serve.
Shake the jar vigorously for about 30 seconds until the ingredients are well combined and the dressing looks emulsified. Drizzle over your favorite salad and enjoy immediately.
TIPThe dressing will separate upon standing. Always shake well just before serving.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best flavor, use a high-quality extra virgin olive oil and freshly squeezed lemon juice.
- 2A small jar with a tight-fitting lid is the perfect tool for both mixing and storing this vinaigrette.
- 3Feel free to customize the herbs. A pinch of dried thyme or rosemary also works wonderfully.
- 4Store leftover dressing in the refrigerator for up to one week. The oil may solidify, so let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes and shake well before using.
Adapt it for your goals.
Healthy
This recipe is already heart-healthy. To reduce the calorie count, adjust to a 2:1 ratio of oil to lemon juice for a tangier, lighter dressing.
quickQuick
If you don't have a jar, simply whisk all the ingredients together in a small bowl until they are well combined.
kid friendlyKid friendly
To balance the tartness for a sweeter palate, add 1/2 teaspoon of honey or maple syrup. Note that this will add a small amount of sugar.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Heart-Healthy Fats
Extra virgin olive oil is an excellent source of monounsaturated fats, which are known to help reduce bad cholesterol levels and support overall cardiovascular health.
Rich in Antioxidants
Both olive oil and fresh lemon juice contain powerful antioxidants that help protect your body's cells from damage caused by free radicals.
Sodium-Free Flavor
This dressing uses herbs and lemon juice to create a vibrant flavor without any added salt, making it an excellent choice for managing blood pressure and reducing sodium intake.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, this homemade version is very healthy. It's rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats from olive oil and contains no sodium, sugar, or preservatives often found in store-bought dressings.
