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Lemon Garlic Dijon Vinaigrette

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LIZ DELLA CROCE

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This Lemon Garlic Dijon Vinaigrette combines zesty lemon juice, rich olive oil, fresh garlic, and tangy Dijon mustard for a simple, flavorful homemade dressing—perfect for salads, marinades, and more!

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Lemon garlic Dijon vinaigrette in a glass pitcher with a bowl of green salad.

A green salad dressed with a simple homemade vinaigrette has been on our dinner table my entire life. Why buy bottled dressing when you can combine basic kitchen staples to create a flavorful vinaigrette in minutes? Not only will you save money, but you can control the ingredients. This Lemon Garlic Dijon Vinaigrette is made with just a handful of common pantry items. If you’re used to bottled dressing, you will be blown away at how flavorful a salad becomes when tossed with fresh, vibrant flavors.

Not a fan of vinaigrettes? Not a problem! As I mentioned, homemade dressings were a staple for me growing up, so I have plenty. Give my Dill Ranch Dressing or Avocado Green Goddess Dressing a try!

Why You’ll Love This Dressing

  • Can be whipped up in less than 5 minutes!
  • While it’s great on salad, it can be used on meats, too.
  • Is easily stored in the fridge to be used all week long!

Ingredients

  • Dijon mustard: Tangy, sharp, and strong flavor that shines through the dressing.
  • Garlic: Nutty, earthy, and a little spicy in flavor.
  • Lemon juice: Fresh, bright, acidic flavor that balances out the dressing. I definitely recommend using fresh lemon juice and not bottled.
  • Olive oil: Fruity, earthy, and the classic dressing for salad.

Change It Up

Want a little sweetness? Add honey. Not a fan of garlic? Skip it. Have fresh thyme around? Throw it in. Get creative and make it your own!

How to Make Lemon Garlic Dijon Vinaigrette

Grating garlic with a microplane into a bowl.

Step 1. Start by putting the Dijon mustard into a small bowl. Then use a microplane or cheese grater to add fresh garlic to the bowl.

Step 2. Freshly squeeze the lemon juice into the bowl and season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Whisking-dijon-dressing

Step 3. Take a small whisk and start whisking together your dressing.

Step 4. Slowly add the olive oil while whisking until dressing is emulsified.

Pouring lemon garlic Dijon vinaigrette over the top of a green salad in a white bowl.

Pour your Lemon Garlic Dijon Vinaigrette into a small pitcher or dressing boat, drizzle over your favorite salad, and enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does this dressing keep?

This vinaigrette can be made ahead and stored in in an air-tight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

What is a vinaigrette made of?

The basics you need for a vinaigrette are an oil and a vinegar. You can then dress it up with many spices and more!

What is the healthiest salad dressing?

Vinaigrettes are typically considered healthier simply because they usually use fewer ingredients and are lower in sugars and fats.
Lemon garlic Dijon vinaigrette with Syrian salad.

Salad Recipes

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If you want to enjoy salads but struggle, this Lemon Garlic Dijon Vinaigrette will convert you. The whole family will have no trouble inhaling large bowls of salad.

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Lemon Garlic Dijon Vinaigrette

Liz Della Croce
4.65 stars average
Bright lemon juice and fruity olive oil pairs perfectly with fresh garlic and Dijon mustard to make this simple, homemade salad dressing.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
CourseSalad
Serves4

Ingredients
 
 

  • 1 tablespoon dijon mustard whole grain or traditional
  • 1 clove garlic grated
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon pepper
  • ¼ cup lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

Instructions
 

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together Dijon, grated garlic, salt, and pepper.
    1 tablespoon dijon mustard, 1 clove garlic, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon pepper
  2. Pour in lemon juice and continue whisking to combine. Gradually add olive oil and whisk until emulsified.
    1/4 cup lemon juice, 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  3. To check for seasoning, dip a piece of lettuce in the dressing and add salt or pepper if needed.
  4. When you’re ready to serve, drizzle over salad and toss lightly until greens are evenly coated.

Liz’s Notes

Dressing can be made in advance and stored in an air-tight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.

Nutrition

Calories: 76kcal | Carbohydrates: 1.3g | Protein: 0.1g | Fat: 6.8g | Saturated Fat: 0.9g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 5.9g | Trans Fat: 0g | Cholesterol: 0mg | Sodium: 416mg | Fiber: 0.1g | Sugar: 0.4g

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4.65 from 34 votes (30 ratings without comment)

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27 responses to “Lemon Garlic Dijon Vinaigrette”

  1. Kathy Avatar
    Kathy

    Great taste! Will be one of my favorite go to dressings.

  2. John Avatar
    John

    This was delish! I had dreams of salad last night and this dressing hit the spot