Lemon Basil Vinaigrette combines the vibrant flavors you crave in a salad dressing. The bright citrus notes and fresh herbs create a perfect balance that elevates any fresh greens or roasted vegetables.

Lemon Basil Vinaigrette recipe

Lemon Basil Vinaigrette is a variation of the popular basil vinaigrette. It’s a bright and flavorful dressing that combines fresh basil with the tanginess of lemon. This vinaigrette is particularly popular in the summer when fresh basil is abundant.

A jar of lemon basil vinaigrette on the table

The lemon basil vinaigrette creates a perfect balance of zesty lime and fresh basil. Its sharp citrus notes are gentled by a hint of honey’s sweetness, while garlic adds just the right savory touch. It’s a refreshing blend that makes any dish sing with its vibrant, herbaceous character.

Here’s how to make the lemon basil vinaigrette:

Lemon basil vinaigrette recipe

A bright, zesty vinaigrette that perfectly balances fresh herbs, citrus, and olive oil. Perfect for salads, grain bowls, or as a marinade, this 5-minute recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free!

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Prep Time 5

Course Condiment

Cuisine Italian

Servings 6

Calories 90 kcal

Ingredients

1/4 cup fresh lemon juice about 1 lemon
1/2 cup fresh basil leaves packed
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup optional, for sweetness
1 garlic clove minced
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

In a food processor or blender, combine the lemon juice, basil leaves, Dijon mustard, garlic, and honey (if using). Blend until smooth.
With the blender running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the dressing emulsifies and thickens.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Give it a quick blend to incorporate the seasoning.
Transfer to a jar or bottle and refrigerate for up to a week.

Keyword healthy salad dressing, homemade salad dressing, lemon basil vinaigrette, low-calorie dressing, vegan dressing

How to serve and pair

Tarragon vinaigrette is a flavorful dressing that pairs well with a variety of dishes. Here are some excellent options:

Serving suggestions

1. As Salad Dressing:

Toss with mixed greens for a light lunch
Drizzle over grain bowls for added flavor
Combine with Mexican-inspired salads for authenticity

2. As Marinade:

Infuse proteins for 2-4 hours
Brush onto vegetables before grilling
Coat tofu or tempeh for plant-based options

3. Advanced Applications

Serve it as a dip for fresh vegetables like carrots and celery sticks
Use as a finishing sauce for grilled meats
Incorporate into grain dishes while still warm
Drizzle over sandwiches or wraps

Pairing suggestions

1. Main Dish Combinations

The vinaigrette complements various main courses across cuisines:

Egg Dishes:

Frittatas
Scrambled eggs

Fish Pairings: It works particularly well with mild white fish like

Cod
Sole
Mahi-mahi

Grilled Proteins:

Protein	Preparation Method	Serving Suggestion
Chicken	Grilled whole	Drizzle before serving
Steak	Grilled, or baked	Use as sauce
Shrimp	Grilled skewers	Brush while cooking

2. Side Dishes

Salads:

Mixed greens with mango and avocado
Quinoa with roasted vegetables
Black bean and corn salad
Southwest salads with black beans, corn, and avocado

Vegetable Pairings:

Roasted:
- Sweet potatoes
- Bell peppers
- Cauliflower
Fresh:
- Cucumber
- Radishes
- Jicama

Variations

Discover how to personalize lemon basil salad dressing for your favorite salads and meals.

1. Spicy Version

Mild: A small jalapeño (seeds removed)
Medium: Include one whole serrano pepper with seeds
Hot: Combine multiple chile varieties for complex heat

2. Creamy Dressing

½ cup of plain Greek yogurt, or
1 ripe avocado

3. Nutty Flavor:

Incorporate tahini
Add a tablespoon of toasted pine nuts or walnuts

4. Herb and Spice Version

Incorporate additional herbs like parsley, cilantro, or thyme for a more complex flavor.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or a dash of Dijon mustard for tanginess and emulsification.