Simple and versatile everyday salad dressing made with olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and Dijon mustard. Perfect for fresh salads, roasted vegetables, or as a marinade, this easy recipe is ready in minutes and packed with flavor.

Ingredients

3 tablespoons olive oil
1 small garlic clove, pressed or minced (or ½ teaspoon garlic powder)
1 tablespoon freshly-squeezed lemon juice (or red wine vinegar)
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
½ teaspoon fine sea salt
¼ teaspoon freshly-cracked black pepper

Instructions

Combine the Ingredients:
- In a small bowl, whisk together all the ingredients until well emulsified.
- Alternatively, place all ingredients in a sealed jar and shake vigorously until fully combined.
Serve or Store:
- Use the dressing immediately on your favorite salads or refrigerate for later use.
- If stored in the refrigerator, it can be kept for 1–7 days. Before serving, give it a good stir or shake, as some separation may occur.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This versatile salad dressing is quick, easy, and made with pantry staples. It adds a burst of flavor to any salad and complements a wide variety of ingredients. With its balanced blend of olive oil, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard, it’s a healthier and tastier option than store-bought dressings.

Tips

Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality olive oil and fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
Adjust to Taste: Add a pinch of sugar if you prefer a slightly sweeter dressing or extra Dijon for a bolder taste.
Minimize Garlic Intensity: For a milder garlic flavor, let the dressing sit for 10 minutes before serving.

Variations and Substitutions

Citrus Swap: Replace lemon juice with lime juice or orange juice for a zesty twist.
Vinegar Options: Use balsamic, apple cider, or white wine vinegar instead of red wine vinegar.
Herb Infusion: Add chopped fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or thyme for extra flavor.

FAQs

How long does this dressing last?
Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, it will last for up to 7 days.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, this recipe can be easily scaled up for larger quantities.

Is this dressing vegan?
Yes, it’s naturally vegan as it contains no animal products.

Serving and Suggestions

Drizzle this everyday salad dressing over mixed greens, roasted vegetables, or grain bowls. It’s also perfect as a marinade for chicken, fish, or tofu. Pair it with crusty bread and fresh veggies for a simple yet satisfying appetizer.