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Lemon Vinaigrette in small mason jar on small cutting board with lemons and salad.
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Lemon Vinaigrette

This Lemon Vinaigrette pairs extra virgin olive oil and champagne vinegar with fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, and maple syrup to create a crisp citrusy salad dressing perfect for summer.
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time0 minutes
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Lemon Vinaigrette, Vinaigrette
Servings: 0.75 cup

Ingredients

  • ½ c extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 Tbsp champagne vinegar
  • 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tsp Dijon or ground mustard
  • 3 tsp maple or date syrup
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  • Method 1 (Blender): Blend all vinaigrette ingredients in a blender at high speed for several minutes until smooth.
  • Method 2 (Mason Jar): Combine all ingredients in a mason jar and shake vigorously for 30 seconds to 1 minute, until smooth.
  • Method 3 (Whisking): Combine all ingredients, except the oil, in a small bowl. Slowly add the oil in a thin stream while vigorously whisking the mixture.
  • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Vigorously shake before using if separation has occurred.

Notes

  1. Blending the vinaigrette will yield the smoothest emulsified vinaigrette. Whisking by hand will also result in a well emulsified vinaigrette, but with less consistent results, depending on how quickly you add the oil, how thoroughly you whisk, etc. Shaking the vinaigrette in a mason jar will loosely emulsify the vinaigrette and the oil and vinegar layers will likely separate over time.  
  2. To keep this recipe vegan, use a vegan Dijon mustard or ground mustard.

FAQ

  1. What are the ratios for traditional vinaigrette - traditionally, vinaigrettes use 3 parts oil to 1 part vinegar. We like to use 2 parts oil to 1 part vinegar in our recipes to cut back a little on the fat content and to add a little extra sharpness.
  2. Is vinaigrette healthier than salad dressing - vinaigrettes are typically healthier/lighter than other creamy dressings, like Caesar or ranch, especially if you're making your own as you can control the oil: vinegar ratio as well as added sugars and sodium.
  3. What is the shelf life of vinaigrette - we typically keep our vinaigrette in the refrigerator for 5 days, especially if it contains fresh herbs or garlic.