Lemon Basil Vinaigrette combines the vibrant flavors you crave in a salad dressing. The bright citrus notes and fresh herbs of this condiment elevate any fresh greens or roasted vegetables.
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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.
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. The condiment is a refreshing blend that makes any dish sing with its vibrant, herbaceous character.
This salad dressing is great on salads with kale, arugula, tomatoes, cucumbers, watermelon radishes, peaches, or cheeses like burrata and Parmesan. It also shines as a dip or drizzle for grilled or roasted vegetables, adding a tangy, herby kick.
This vinaigrette pairs well with seafood and poultry, like grilled shrimp, chicken, or fish, as a marinade or finishing touch. It’s delicious with artisan bread, basil olive oil, or in Mediterranean spreads with olives and hummus. You can try it in sandwiches, grain bowls, or pasta salads.
Here’s how to make the lemon basil vinaigrette:
Lemon basil vinaigrette recipe
Nutrition
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.
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Variations
There are many versions of the lemon basil salad dressing for your favorite salads and meals.
- Nutty Flavor incorporates tahini or adds a tablespoon of toasted pine nuts or walnuts.
- Spicy Versions include one whole serrano pepper with seeds, or combine multiple chile varieties for complex heat.
- Creamy Dressing adds ½ cup of plain Greek yogurt, or 1 ripe avocado.
- Herb Infusion incorporates additional herbs like parsley, cilantro, or thyme for a more complex flavor.
- Spice Version adds a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or a dash of Dijon mustard for tanginess and emulsification.