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Easy Lemon Citrus Vinaigrette Dressing Recipe

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4.2 from 46 reviews

This easy Lemon Citrus Vinaigrette Dressing is a bright and tangy accompaniment perfect for salads. Made with fresh lemon zest and juice, garlic, Dijon mustard, parmesan cheese, and a light olive oil, it blends smoothly to a creamy texture that enhances any leafy greens or fresh vegetables. Ready in just 10 minutes, this versatile dressing adds vibrant flavor to your meals and keeps well in the fridge for up to a week.

  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Yield: 10 servings (about 1 and 1/2 cups)

Ingredients

Vinaigrette Ingredients

  • 2 teaspoons lemon zest
  • 2/3 cup fresh lemon juice (from at least 3 lemons)
  • 2 small cloves garlic (or 1 large clove)
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 and 1/2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt (use 3/4 teaspoon if you have table salt)
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper (or more to taste)
  • 2 tablespoons shredded Parmesan cheese
  • 3/4 cup light flavored olive oil (or any vegetable oil)

Instructions

  1. Zest the Lemons: Use a microplane zester to finely zest 2 teaspoons of lemon peel. Add the zest into a blender to start building the fresh citrus base.
  2. Juice the Lemons: Juice about 3 lemons until you have 2/3 cup of fresh lemon juice. Pour this juice into the blender with the zest for bright acidity.
  3. Add Garlic: Peel and add 2 small cloves of garlic to the blender. If one clove is large, use only one to avoid overpowering the dressing.
  4. Add Mustard and Seasonings: Add 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 1 and 1/2 tablespoons granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, and at least 1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper. These ingredients balance the tanginess with a hint of sweetness and slight spice.
  5. Add Parmesan Cheese: Stir in 2 tablespoons of shredded Parmesan cheese. Though optional, this adds a creamy texture and depth of flavor.
  6. Blend the Mixture: Secure the lid on the blender and blend until the garlic and seasonings are finely combined.
  7. Slowly Incorporate Oil: With the blender running, slowly pour in 3/4 cup light flavored olive oil in a steady stream through the top, allowing the dressing to emulsify into a smooth, creamy consistency.
  8. Serve: Pour immediately over your favorite salad, such as a refreshing Lemon Arugula Salad, to add vibrant citrus flavor.
  9. Store: Transfer leftover dressing to a covered container and refrigerate. It will keep for 5-7 days but should not be frozen.
  10. Makes: The recipe yields approximately 1 and 1/2 cups of dressing, enough for about 10 servings.

Notes

  • Use fresh lemons for best flavor; bottled lemon juice won’t give the same bright taste.
  • Adjust the amount of garlic to your preference—start with less if unsure.
  • Parmesan cheese is optional but recommended for creaminess.
  • Use light flavored olive oil or a neutral vegetable oil to avoid overpowering the lemon flavor.
  • Do not freeze the dressing, as it may separate or change texture.
  • Shake or stir well before each use if the ingredients separate over time.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Dressing
  • Method: Blending
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Find it online: https://allyumcooks.com/easy-lemon-citrus-vinaigrette-dressing-recipe/