A simple lemon vinaigrette dressing made with fresh lemon juice is bright and tangy with just a hint of creamy! It complements of a variety of salads but also pairs well with grilled vegetables, chicken and seafood.

For the longest time, I was convinced that it was not possible to make a salad as delicious as what I’d get in a restaurant until I realized that the key to making delicious salads at home is to make homemade dressing. While this homemade ranch dressing is my go to dressing more often than not, this Simple Lemon Vinaigrette is my favorite dressing for spring salads! If you are obsessed with fresh lemon like I am, I’m going to guess you will love this dressing just as much as I do. It’s simple and a classic. Let’s make it! ❤️-Ashley

Dressing Ingredients

Here are the ingredients that make up this simple dressing recipe. For the full recipe and all ingredients, see the recipe card at the bottom of the post.

• Lemon juice: Citrus juice straight from the fruit has the best flavor. Since you will also need lemons for lemon zest, grab some fresh lemons for this recipe. Strain the juice to remove any pulp or seeds.
• Lemon zest: Adds a deeper lemon flavor than the juice alone. See more on zesting lemons below.
• Olive oil: Makes up the base of the dressing. I recommend using extra virgin olive oil which is more pure than regular olive oil. In addition to having a better flavor, extra virgin olive oil is packed with antioxidants and heart-healthy fats, making it a nutritious choice for homemade dressings.
• Italian seasoning: The spice blend adds a great flavor to the dressing and enhances the overall taste.
• Salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
• Honey: Adds just enough sweetness to balance the tartness of the lemon.
• Dijon mustard: Adds a savory tang.
• Greek yogurt or sour cream: Makes this dressing just slightly creamy. Either Greek yogurt or sour cream can be used.

How to Make Lemon Vinaigrette

Here is a brief overview of how this refreshing salad dressing comes together. For the full recipe including all measurements, scroll to the recipe card at the bottom of the post.

1. Combine all ingredients. Add everything to a jar or bowl.
2. Whisk or shake to combine. Taste and adjust the flavor as needed. Enjoy or refrigerate.

Zesting Lemons

This recipe uses both lemon juice and lemon zest to achieve the ultimate lemony flavor. Use a lemon zester to carefully remove only the outer yellow layer of the peel, avoiding the bitter white pith underneath. Once you start to see white, rotate the lemon and move to another area of peel.

How to Use

Drizzle lemon vinaigrette over mixed greens for a simple and refreshing salad. Use the dressing to marinate grilled vegetables or seafood for added flavor, or toss roasted potatoes or steamed vegetables with lemon vinaigrette for a flavorful side dish. It is my favorite to use in this grilled asparagus salad.

Storing Homemade Salad Dressings

Keep this dressing in an airtight container or jar in the refrigerator for up to one week. Give it a good shake or whisk before serving as it may settle as it sits.

Other Homemade Salad Dressings

I love making my own homemade salad dressings. Not only can you perfect the flavor to be exactly how you like it, but you eliminate all of the extra preservatives and additives of store-bought dressings. Here are a few of my favorites.

• Olive Garden Salad Dressing Copycat
• Homemade Caesar Dressing
• Homemade Greek Salad Dressing

Enjoy the bright, tangy flavors of homemade vinaigrette on your favorite salads and dishes. If you make this lemon vinaigrette recipe or any of my other recipes, let me know what you think by leaving a comment below.