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Simple Homemade Salad Dressing with Lemon, Garlic, and Herbs Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 77 reviews

A vibrant and tangy homemade salad dressing combining the bright acidity of vinegar or lemon juice with the richness of olive oil, balanced by mustard, garlic, and sweet notes of honey and sugar. Enhanced with fresh and dried herbs, this versatile dressing elevates any leafy green or vegetable dish with a flavorful, well-rounded taste.

Ingredients

Scale

Dressing

  • 1 tbsp any vinegar or lemon juice (cider vinegar recommended)
  • 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (or other neutral oil)
  • 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard (or other non-spicy smooth mustard)
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp pepper
  • 1/2 – 1 small garlic clove, pressed or smashed
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 1/4 tsp sugar
  • 1 tsp honey
  • Finely chopped fresh herbs (amount as desired)
  • 1/2 tsp dried herbs
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Combine Ingredients: Place all dressing ingredients, including optional fresh and dried herbs and red pepper flakes, into a jar.
  2. Shake Well: Secure the lid and shake vigorously until the mustard fully dissolves and the dressing is emulsified.
  3. Serving Size: This quantity is sufficient for dressing a large salad serving 4 people (approximately 4 big handfuls of lettuce or a garden salad).
  4. Storage: Without the garlic and fresh herbs, the dressing can be stored in the refrigerator for several weeks. Before using, shake well to recombine the ingredients.
  5. Usage: Toss the dressing with fresh, dry salad leaves, or drizzle over steamed, boiled, or roasted vegetables while hot to enhance absorption and flavor. Mix well just before serving.

Notes

  • Choose any vinegar or lemon juice based on preference; cider vinegar adds a mild sweetness.
  • Adjust garlic amount to taste; fresh garlic provides a pungent kick.
  • Honey and sugar balance acidity with sweetness; sugar can be omitted for a less sweet dressing.
  • Use fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or dill for brightness and dried herbs for earthiness.
  • Ensure salad leaves are dry for the dressing to adhere properly.
  • Shake the dressing well before each use to maintain emulsification.
  • Remove fresh herbs and garlic before long-term storage to prevent flavor degradation.

Keywords: salad dressing, homemade dressing, vinaigrette, olive oil dressing, healthy dressing, easy salad dressing, herb dressing

Find it online: https://zestywithzane.com/simple-homemade-salad-dressing-with-lemon-garlic-and-herbs-recipe/