Simple Lemon Dijon Dressing (Quick & Easy Recipe)
This Lemon Dijon Dressing is made with simple ingredients and has the best flavor -the perfect balance of sweet and tangy! Pour it on top of your favorite salad, grain bowl, or roasted veggies. Or use it as a delicious marinade for chicken or salmon.
Equipment
Ingredients
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice (juice of 2 small or 1 large lemon)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (or honey - note: honey is not vegan)
- 1 clove garlic, minced or grated
- ¼ teaspoon salt more to taste
- dash black pepper
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar optional
Instructions
- Whisk together the lemon juice, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, minced or grated garlic, and salt + pepper in a mason jar or small bowl.
- Drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil and whisk until it's emulsified.
- Alternative Method #1: Shake it up - skip the whisk and make this Lemon Dijon Dressing in a mason jar by adding all of the ingredients, securing the lid, and shaking it until everything is well combined.
- Alternative Method #2: Blend it Up - use a food processor or blender instead. Simply add the ingredients until blended (30-60 seconds or until smooth).
- Hint: if you're using a whisk to make this dressing, the best way to get the oil and lemon juice to emulsify is to drizzle in the olive oil slowly at the end while vigorously whisking it together.
Notes
Expert Tips
- Finely mince your garlic using a garlic press. I don't suggest using a jar of pre-minced garlic for this recipe even though you can if it's the only option!
- The ingredient flavors in this dressing recipe can vary a bit based on brand and variety so taste your dressing once it's mixed and adjust it if needed! If you like your dressings on the sweeter side, add a bit more syrup. If you prefer it on the tangier side, add a bit more lemon. If you prefer it more robust, bump up the extra virgin olive oil a bit.
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!