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 using table salt)
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper (more to taste)
- 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese (shredded)
- 3/4 cup light flavored olive oil (or any vegetable oil)
Instructions
- Zest the Lemon: Use a microplane zester to zest 2 teaspoons of lemon from one lemon and add it to a blender.
- Juice the Lemons: Juice about 3 lemons until you have 2/3 cup of fresh lemon juice and add it to the blender with the zest.
- Add Garlic: Peel 2 small cloves of garlic (or 1 large clove) and add them to the blender to keep the garlic flavor balanced.
- Add Mustard and Seasoning: Add 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 1 and 1/2 tablespoons granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, and at least 1/4 teaspoon cracked black pepper to the blender.
- Add Parmesan Cheese: Add 2 tablespoons shredded Parmesan cheese to the blender. This ingredient is optional but adds a creamy texture and flavor.
- Blend the Ingredients: Secure the blender lid and blend everything until smooth, ensuring the garlic is well broken up.
- Emulsify with Olive Oil: With the blender running, slowly drizzle 3/4 cup light flavored olive oil through the top lid opening, blending until the vinaigrette is smooth and creamy.
- Serve: Pour the lemon citrus vinaigrette over your favorite salad, such as a Lemon Arugula Salad, and toss to coat.
- Store: Transfer the dressing to a sealed container and refrigerate for up to 5-7 days. Do not freeze.
- Yield: This recipe makes about 1 and 1/2 cups of dressing, enough for 10 servings.
Notes
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best bright citrus flavor.
- The Parmesan cheese adds creaminess but can be omitted to keep the dressing dairy-free.
- Adjust garlic quantity to your taste preference to avoid overpowering the dressing.
- Store the dressing in the refrigerator for up to one week; shaking or stirring before use is recommended as separation may occur.
- Do not freeze the vinaigrette as it may separate and lose texture.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat