Best lemon vinaigrette
Certainly! Here's a recipe for what I consider to be a delicious and versatile lemon vinaigrette:
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, basil, or thyme) - optional for added flavor
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice and Dijon mustard until well combined.
2. Slowly drizzle in the extra-virgin olive oil while whisking continuously to emulsify the dressing. This creates a creamy and well-blended vinaigrette.
3. Add the minced garlic to the mixture and whisk again to incorporate it into the dressing.
4. Stir in the honey or maple syrup for a touch of sweetness. Whisk well to combine.
5. Season the dressing with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
6. If you like, add finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or thyme to enhance the flavor. This step is optional but can add a delightful herbal note to the vinaigrette.
7. Taste the vinaigrette and adjust the flavors as needed, adding more lemon juice, salt, or sweetener if desired.
8. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If refrigerated, let it come to room temperature before using and give it a good shake or whisk.
This versatile lemon vinaigrette pairs well with a variety of salads, from simple green salads to grain or pasta salads. Enjoy its bright and zesty flavor!