Summer has finally arrived, and with it comes the desire to lighten up our meals and make them a little more refreshing. One way to do that is by incorporating bright, citrusy flavors into your cooking. And what better way to add that brightness than with a good ol’ fashioned lemon vinaigrette? The tangy zip of fresh lemon juice can elevate everything from salads and sandwiches to grilled meats and roasted vegetables.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 18 refreshing lemon vinaigrette recipes that are perfect for sipping on hot summer days. From classic combinations like garlic and herb to spicy twists with red pepper flakes, these vinaigrettes will add a burst of flavor to any dish. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and zesty or rich and creamy, we’ve got you covered. So go ahead, get your lemon on, and make this summer one to remember!
Classic Lemon Garlic Vinaigrette
Brighten up your salads with this zesty and refreshing vinaigrette, featuring the perfect balance of lemon, garlic, and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together vinegar, lemon juice, garlic, mustard, and honey until smooth.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
3. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Cooking Time: None! Just mix and enjoy
Honey Lemon Vinaigrette with Dijon Mustard
Elevate your salads and marinades with this sweet and tangy vinaigrette, combining the warmth of honey with the brightness of lemon and the richness of Dijon mustard.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard until smooth.
2. Slowly pour in the olive oil while continuously whisking the mixture.
3. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Tips:
– Adjust the ratio of honey to lemon juice to suit your taste preferences.
– Use this vinaigrette as a marinade for chicken, salmon, or tofu before grilling or roasting.
– Add it to your favorite salad recipe for a burst of citrusy flavor.
Lemon Herb Vinaigrette with Fresh Thyme
This bright and citrusy vinaigrette is perfect for dressing salads, vegetables, or as a marinade for your favorite protein. With the added warmth of fresh thyme, this condiment adds depth and complexity to any dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar (optional)
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme leaves
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and salt until well combined.
2. Slowly drizzle in olive oil while continuously whisking the mixture.
3. If using white wine vinegar, add it to the mixture and whisk to combine.
4. Stir in chopped fresh thyme leaves.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: None
This vinaigrette is best used immediately, but it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Spicy Lemon Vinaigrette with Red Pepper Flakes
Elevate your salads and grilled meats with this bold and zesty vinaigrette, infused with the warmth of red pepper flakes.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
2. Slowly pour in the olive oil while continuously whisking the mixture until emulsified.
3. Add Dijon mustard, honey, and red pepper flakes. Whisk until smooth.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cook Time: 0 minutes (prepare just before serving)
Lemon Balsamic Vinaigrette with Shallots
Lemon Balsamic Vinaigrette with Shallots: A Bright and Tangy Condiment
This zesty vinaigrette is perfect for elevating the flavors of mixed greens, roasted vegetables, or grilled meats. With the sweetness of shallots and the tanginess of lemon and balsamic vinegar, this condiment is sure to add a burst of flavor to any dish.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh shallots (about 1 small shallot)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, balsamic vinegar, and chopped shallots until well combined.
2. Slowly pour in the olive oil while continuously whisking the mixture until it’s smooth and emulsified.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Cooking Time: None! Just mix and enjoy.
Lemon Poppy Seed Vinaigrette
Brighten up your salads with this refreshing Lemon Poppy Seed Vinaigrette, perfect for spring and summer days. This citrusy dressing is a great way to add flavor without overpowering your favorite greens.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon poppy seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and honey until smooth.
2. Slowly pour in the olive oil while continuously whisking until the vinaigrette is well combined.
3. Stir in poppy seeds and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: None
Creamy Lemon Avocado Vinaigrette
Brighten up your salads with this refreshing and creamy vinaigrette! Made with the richness of avocado, the brightness of lemon, and a hint of garlic, this sauce is perfect for spring and summer.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe avocado
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Peel the avocado and place it in a blender or food processor.
2. Add the lemon juice, olive oil, and garlic to the blender.
3. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if desired.
5. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None!
Lemon Ginger Vinaigrette with Sesame Oil
A bright and citrusy vinaigrette perfect for spring salads, this recipe combines the warmth of ginger with the nutty flavor of sesame oil.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar
– 1/4 cup neutral-tasting oil, such as canola or grapeseed
– 2 teaspoons sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine lemon juice, grated ginger, and apple cider vinegar.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, whisking occasionally.
3. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the vinaigrette has thickened slightly and the flavors have melded together.
4. Remove from heat and stir in neutral-tasting oil and sesame oil.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Let it cool to room temperature before using or storing in an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Lemon Basil Vinaigrette with Parmesan
This zesty vinaigrette is a perfect combination of tangy lemon, sweet basil, and salty Parmesan. It’s a great addition to any salad, from classic greens to more adventurous mix-ins.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil leaves
– 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (preferably aged)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and olive oil until well combined.
2. Add chopped basil and Parmesan cheese; whisk until smooth.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Cooking Time: None! This vinaigrette is ready to use straight away.
Lemon Tahini Vinaigrette with Garlic
Elevate your salads and favorite dishes with this zesty and creamy vinaigrette. The combination of lemon, tahini, garlic, and herbs creates a unique flavor profile that’s both tangy and savory.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup tahini
– 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon honey
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and honey. Blend until smooth.
2. With the blender or food processor running, slowly pour in olive oil through the top. Continue blending until well combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Cooking Time: None
Lemon Mint Vinaigrette for Salads
Elevate your salads with this refreshing Lemon Mint Vinaigrette! This light and zesty dressing is perfect for springtime greens, vegetables, and fruits.
Ingredients:
– 2/3 cup olive oil
– 1/3 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint leaves
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
2. Add olive oil and whisk until emulsified.
3. Stir in chopped fresh mint leaves.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Yield: Approximately 1 cup (enough for 4-6 salads)
Lime-Lemon Vinaigrette with Cilantro
Add a burst of citrus and freshness to your salads with this zesty vinaigrette.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together lime and lemon juices until well combined.
2. Slowly pour in the olive oil while continuously whisking the mixture.
3. Add the chopped cilantro and whisk until it’s evenly distributed throughout the vinaigrette.
4. Season with salt to taste.
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Yield: 1 cup (enough for 2-3 salads)
Lemon Maple Vinaigrette with Apple Cider Vinegar
This refreshing vinaigrette combines the tanginess of apple cider vinegar, the sweetness of maple syrup, and the brightness of lemon juice for a flavor profile that’s perfect for springtime salads.
Ingredients:
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
• 1/4 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard until smooth.
2. Add the maple syrup and whisk until fully incorporated.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Store any leftover vinaigrette in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Cooking Time: None! This vinaigrette is ready to use immediately.
Enjoy this zesty and sweet vinaigrette on your favorite salads, from mixed greens with berries to roasted vegetable or quinoa bowls.
Lemon Rosemary Vinaigrette for Roasted Vegetables
Elevate your roasted vegetable game with this bright and herbaceous vinaigrette, perfect for adding a burst of citrusy flavor to your favorite veggies. This recipe is quick, easy, and versatile – use it on everything from Brussels sprouts to sweet potatoes!
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and rosemary until well combined.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Cooking Time: None! This vinaigrette is ready when you are – simply drizzle over your roasted vegetables and enjoy!
Lemon Dill Vinaigrette for Seafood
Elevate your seafood dishes with this bright and refreshing vinaigrette, featuring the perfect balance of tangy lemon and sweet dill.
Ingredients:
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
• 1 minced garlic clove
• Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, vinegar, and minced garlic until well combined.
2. Add chopped fresh dill and whisk until the mixture is smooth.
3. Slowly pour in olive oil while continuously whisking until the vinaigrette emulsifies.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: None! This vinaigrette is ready to use immediately.
Use this vinaigrette to dress up your favorite seafood dishes, such as grilled salmon or shrimp, or as a marinade for seafood before cooking. Enjoy!
Lemon Turmeric Vinaigrette with Black Pepper
Elevate your salads or use as a marinade with this bright and zesty vinaigrette, featuring the warmth of turmeric and the kick of black pepper.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 1/4 cup olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, turmeric, and black pepper until smooth.
2. Slowly pour in the olive oil while continuously whisking the mixture until fully incorporated.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Give the vinaigrette a good stir before using.
Enjoy your delicious Lemon Turmeric Vinaigrette with Black Pepper!
Lemon Mustard Vinaigrette with Honey
Elevate your salad game with this tangy and sweet vinaigrette, perfect for springtime salads or as a marinade for grilled meats.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon honey
– 6 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and honey until well combined.
2. Slowly pour in the olive oil while continuously whisking the mixture until it’s smooth and emulsified.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Store any leftover vinaigrette in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes of whisking and combining ingredients.
Lemon Chili Vinaigrette for Grilled Meats
Elevate your grilled meats with a zesty and aromatic lemon chili vinaigrette that will leave you wanting more. This tangy condiment is perfect for slathering onto chicken, beef, pork, or shrimp before serving.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1-2 teaspoons chili flakes (depending on desired heat level)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, smoked paprika, cumin, and chili flakes.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed with salt, pepper, or more chili flakes.
3. Use immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a condiment recipe!
Summary
Beat the heat this summer with these refreshing lemon vinaigrette recipes! From classic combinations like Lemon Garlic Vinaigrette to more adventurous options like Spicy Lemon Vinaigrette, there’s something for everyone. Try Honey Lemon Vinaigrette with Dijon Mustard on your favorite salad, or get creative with the likes of Creamy Lemon Avocado Vinaigrette and Lemon Ginger Vinaigrette with Sesame Oil. Whether you’re looking to add a tangy twist to your roasted vegetables or give your seafood a burst of citrus flavor, these 18 lemon vinaigrette recipes are sure to hit the spot.
