Created on November 21st, 2025 at 03:30 pm
A simple blend to brighten your salads
A good salad dressing can transform a bowl of greens into something extraordinary. This everyday salad dressing marries the fresh zestiness of lemon with the earthy notes of olive oil, creating a flavor profile that dances across your palate. The creamy texture, bolstered by a hint of Dijon mustard, coats each leaf beautifully, enhancing the crispness of the vegetables. The balance of acidity from the vinegar against the richness of the oil delivers a refreshing contrast, making it an indispensable staple. As you whisk the ingredients together, the vibrant aroma fills your kitchen, inviting you to indulge in a fresh, vibrant meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This salad dressing is incredibly versatile, working wonderfully on mixed greens, roasted vegetables, or even as a marinade for grilled chicken. Its simplicity is a key feature; each ingredient plays a vital role without overwhelming the palate. The balance of flavors ensures that it complements a variety of salads, from hearty winter mixes to light summer greens. Plus, one batch can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, allowing the flavors to meld even further over time. As a bonus, using this dressing the next day brings an even deeper flavor to your salad, inviting a delightful zing in every bite.
Time Breakdown
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 hours
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4–6
Ingredients List
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (for a hint of sweetness)
Kitchen Tools
This recipe requires minimal tools, making it a hassle-free addition to your cooking routine. You likely already have what you need on hand.
- Whisk
- Small bowl or jar with a lid
- Measuring spoons
- Garlic press (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a small bowl or jar, combine the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, fresh lemon juice, and Dijon mustard. The oil should have a rich, golden color that will later blend seamlessly with the brighter ingredients.
- Add the minced garlic, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. If you’re using honey or maple syrup, add it now for a touch of sweetness that balances the acidity.
- Whisk together until the mixture is well combined and emulsified. The salad dressing should take on a smooth, creamy appearance, with the oil and vinegar beautifully incorporated.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper as desired. The dressing should be bright and zesty, with just enough kick to elevate your salad.
- If using a jar, seal it tightly and shake until fully combined. This method provides a quick and easy way to mix your dressing while keeping cleanup minimal.
- Drizzle over your favorite salad, toss gently, and enjoy the vibrant flavors. The dressing can also be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week; just remember to give it a good shake before using again.
Pro Tips
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for a brighter flavor.
- Adjust the acidity by varying the amount of vinegar or lemon juice based on your taste preferences.
- For a creamier texture, add a tablespoon of Greek yogurt or sour cream.
- Always taste before serving; sometimes a pinch more salt is all it needs to enhance the flavors.
- This dressing pairs beautifully with grilled vegetables and can be made in larger batches for meal prep.
Everyday Nourishment, Made Simple
This everyday salad dressing embodies the essence of simplicity and flavor. Its light yet satisfying qualities allow it to enhance various salads, adding a refreshing touch with minimal effort. The delightful aroma and taste make it an essential in any home kitchen, reminding us that even the simplest recipes can bring joy. “This dressing is a testament to delicious, uncomplicated cooking.”
Nutrition Table
| Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 130 kcal |
| Protein | 1 g |
| Fat | 14 g |
| Carbohydrates | 2 g |
| Fiber | 0 g |
| Sugar | 0 g |
| Sodium | 150 mg |
Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.
Everyday Salad Dressing
Ingredients
Salad Dressing Ingredients
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice Use freshly squeezed for the best flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt, to taste Adjust according to preference.
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste Adjust according to preference.
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup Optional, for a hint of sweetness.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a small bowl or jar, combine the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, fresh lemon juice, and Dijon mustard.
- Add the minced garlic, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. If using honey or maple syrup, add it now.
- Whisk together until well combined and emulsified, resulting in a smooth, creamy dressing.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper as desired.
- If using a jar, seal it tightly and shake until fully combined.
- Drizzle over your favorite salad, toss gently, and enjoy.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to a week; shake before using.
Notes
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