If you love a zesty, tangy, and refreshing salad dressing that elevates every bite, this Homemade Lemon Dijon Salad Dressing is a must-try! It’s a simple yet flavorful vinaigrette that blends the bold taste of Dijon mustard, fresh lemon juice, and extra virgin olive oil into a perfectly balanced dressing.
Unlike store-bought dressings loaded with preservatives, unhealthy oils, and added sugars, this homemade version is made with wholesome, fresh ingredients, giving you better flavor and nutrition in every drizzle. Plus, it’s gluten-free, dairy-free, and easily customizable for vegan and keto diets.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
✅ Takes only 5 minutes to make – No blender needed!
✅ Uses pantry staples – Simple, natural ingredients.
✅ Versatile – Perfect for salads, roasted veggies, and marinades.
✅ Healthier than store-bought – No artificial additives.
Whether you’re dressing up a crisp arugula salad, marinating chicken, or drizzling it over grilled veggies, this lemon Dijon vinaigrette will take your dishes to the next level. Let’s dive into this easy, foolproof recipe!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Dressing
This lemon Dijon salad dressing isn’t just another vinaigrette, it’s a game-changer for salads, roasted vegetables, and more. Here’s why it deserves a permanent spot in your kitchen:
1. Quick & Easy – Ready in 5 Minutes!
Forget complicated recipes! This dressing comes together in minutes using just a bowl and a whisk, or a simple mason jar shake. No fancy equipment needed!
2. Healthier Than Store-Bought
Many bottled dressings contain preservatives, artificial flavors, and low-quality oils. This homemade version is made with fresh, natural ingredients you can trust.
3. Bursting with Fresh, Zesty Flavor
The combination of tangy lemon juice, smooth Dijon mustard, and rich olive oil creates a perfectly balanced dressing with just the right kick of acidity.
4. Versatile – Not Just for Salads!
This zesty lemon Dijon dressing isn’t just for leafy greens! Try it as:
✔️ A marinade for chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
✔️ A drizzle over roasted vegetables.
✔️ A dip for crusty bread or raw veggies.
✔️ A grain bowl enhancer for quinoa, couscous, or farro.
5. Naturally Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free & Easily Customizable
✔️ Vegan-friendly? Swap honey for maple syrup.
✔️ Low-carb or keto? Skip the sweetener entirely.
✔️ Prefer creamy dressings? Stir in some Greek yogurt for a rich texture.
With its bright, tangy flavor and endless uses, this dressing is a kitchen essential you’ll want to make again and again. Ready to mix up a batch? Let’s talk ingredients!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This lemon Dijon salad dressing comes together with simple, wholesome ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:
🔹 Essential Ingredients:
🟢 Fresh Lemon Juice – The star of this recipe! Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the brightest, most refreshing flavor—bottled juice won’t cut it.
🟢 Dijon Mustard – Adds a bold, tangy depth and helps emulsify the dressing, giving it a smooth, velvety texture.
🟢 Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Choose a high-quality olive oil for the best taste. This adds richness and helps balance the acidity of the lemon juice.
🟢 Apple Cider Vinegar (or White Wine Vinegar) – Enhances the tanginess and adds a subtle depth of flavor.
🟢 Garlic (Optional, But Recommended!) – Freshly minced garlic gives the dressing a slight kick and extra complexity.
🟢 Honey or Maple Syrup (Optional) – A touch of natural sweetness balances the acidity. Use honey for a classic taste or maple syrup for a vegan option.
🟢 Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
🔹 Ingredient Substitutions & Variations
✔️ No olive oil? Swap it for avocado oil for a milder, buttery flavor.
✔️ Want a creamy version? Stir in Greek yogurt or mayonnaise for a rich, smooth texture.
✔️ Need a sugar-free option? Skip the honey/maple syrup or use a keto-friendly sweetener.
✔️ Prefer a bolder taste? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a teaspoon of grated Parmesan cheese.
💡 Pro Tip: If you want an extra herby touch, toss in fresh thyme, basil, or parsley for a flavor boost!
Now that we have all the ingredients ready, let’s move on to the step-by-step process of making this delicious lemon Dijon dressing!
How to Make Lemon Dijon Salad Dressing (Step-by-Step Instructions)
Making this homemade lemon Dijon salad dressing is incredibly quick and easy, no blender required! With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a smooth, flavorful vinaigrette ready to drizzle over your favorite dishes.
🔹 Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Before getting started, gather and measure all your ingredients to ensure a smooth and effortless preparation process. This ensures a smooth mixing process and perfect balance of flavors.
🔹 Step 2: Combine the Base Ingredients
In a small mixing bowl or mason jar, whisk together:
✔️ ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
✔️ 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
✔️ 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
✔️ 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
✔️ 1 small garlic clove, minced (optional)
💡 Pro Tip: Using a mason jar? Just place all the ingredients in a jar, seal the lid tightly, and give it a strong shake to blend everything together!
🔹 Step 3: Slowly Add the Olive Oil
To create a perfectly emulsified dressing, slowly drizzle in:
✔️ ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
🌀 Whisk constantly while pouring to help the oil blend seamlessly into the mixture, creating a smooth, creamy vinaigrette.
💡 Shortcut Option: Use an immersion blender for an ultra-creamy consistency in seconds!
🔹 Step 4: Season to Taste
Once the dressing is fully mixed, stir in:
✔️ ½ teaspoon salt
✔️ ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Taste and adjust:
✔️ Too tangy? Add a little more olive oil or honey.
✔️ Too thick? Whisk in a teaspoon of water until you reach your desired consistency.
✔️ Want more kick? Add an extra squeeze of lemon juice or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
🔹 Step 5: Store or Serve Immediately
✔️ Use right away or store in an airtight container.
✔️ Refrigerate for up to 1 week—just give it a good shake before using!
💡 Serving Idea: Try drizzling this dressing over a fresh arugula and quinoa salad, using it as a chicken marinade, or mixing it into a grain bowl for an extra burst of flavor!
Best Ways to Use This Dressing
This zesty lemon Dijon salad dressing is more than just a salad topper—it’s a multi-purpose flavor booster that can transform a variety of dishes! Here are some of the best ways to use it:
1. Toss It with Fresh Salads 🥗
This dressing pairs beautifully with light, crisp greens and hearty grain-based salads. Try it on:
✔️ Arugula & Spinach Salad – Adds a peppery bite with a tangy finish.
✔️ Kale & Quinoa Salad – The acidity helps soften kale and enhance the nutty quinoa flavor.
✔️ Mediterranean Chickpea Salad – Complements cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta.
✔️ Roasted Veggie Salad – Drizzle over roasted sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, or carrots.
💡 Pro Tip: Massage the dressing into kale for 2-3 minutes to make it softer and more flavorful!
2. Use It as a Marinade 🍗🍤
The tangy acidity of lemon and Dijon mustard makes this dressing a fantastic marinade! It helps tenderize proteins while adding a delicious depth of flavor. Try it on:
✔️ Chicken – Marinate for 30 minutes before grilling or roasting.
✔️ Shrimp – Toss with raw shrimp and let it sit for 10 minutes before sautéing.
✔️ Tofu or Tempeh – A great plant-based option for extra flavor.
✔️ Salmon or White Fish – Enhances the delicate flavors of seafood.
💡 Pro Tip: Double the recipe and store extra dressing for last-minute marinades throughout the week!
3. Drizzle Over Roasted Vegetables 🍠🥕
Give your roasted veggies an extra flavor boost by drizzling this dressing on top. Some great options include:
✔️ Roasted Brussels Sprouts – The mustard and lemon enhance their caramelized flavor.
✔️ Sweet Potatoes & Butternut Squash – Balances their natural sweetness with a tangy contrast.
✔️ Grilled Asparagus or Zucchini – Perfect for summer grilling!
💡 Pro Tip: Toss the veggies with the dressing before roasting to add even more depth of flavor!
4. Use It as a Dip or Spread 🥖
This dressing works beautifully as a light, flavorful dip or sandwich spread:
✔️ Dipping Sauce for Bread – Serve it with crusty sourdough or pita bread.
✔️ Raw Veggie Dip – Try it with carrot sticks, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes.
✔️ Sandwich Spread – Mix with Greek yogurt or hummus for a tangy sandwich dressing.
💡 Pro Tip: Blend with avocado for a creamier dip that’s perfect for wraps and sandwiches!
5. Enhance Grain Bowls & Pasta 🍚🍝
Looking to jazz up your grain bowls or pasta dishes? This dressing works wonders with:
✔️ Quinoa & Farro Bowls – Adds brightness and balances hearty grains.
✔️ Cold Pasta Salads – Perfect for summer dishes with cherry tomatoes, olives, and feta.
✔️ Lentil or Chickpea Bowls – Complements legumes, nuts, and roasted vegetables.
💡 Pro Tip: Mix this dressing into cooked grains while they’re still warm—they’ll absorb more flavor!
Storage & Shelf Life
One of the best things about this homemade lemon Dijon salad dressing is that it stores well, making it a meal prep essential. Here’s how to keep it fresh and flavorful for days:
🔹 How to Store Your Dressing
✔️ Airtight Container is Key – Store the dressing in a sealed glass jar, mason jar, or airtight container to keep it fresh.
✔️ Refrigeration Required – Because this dressing is made with fresh lemon juice and no preservatives, it must be stored in the refrigerator.
✔️ Shake Before Using – The oil and lemon juice may naturally separate over time. Simply whisk or shake well before serving to recombine the ingredients!
💡 Pro Tip: If the olive oil solidifies in the fridge (which is normal), let the dressing sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before shaking or whisking to bring it back to the right consistency.
🔹 How Long Does It Last?
✔️ Up to 1 Week in the Fridge – For the best flavor, use within 5-7 days.
✔️ Smell & Taste Test – If the dressing smells off or tastes overly sharp, it’s best to make a fresh batch.
💡 Want to Extend Its Shelf Life? Omit the fresh garlic! Fresh garlic can shorten the shelf life, so if you want it to last longer, try using garlic powder instead of fresh garlic.
FAQs
How long does homemade lemon Dijon dressing last?
Homemade lemon Dijon dressing can last up to 1 week in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. Make sure to shake it well before using, as the ingredients tend to separate over time.
Can I make this dressing ahead of time?
Yes! This dressing is perfect for meal prep and can be made in advance. Prepare it up to 1 week ahead of time, and keep it in the fridge for easy access all week long.
Is this lemon Dijon dressing gluten-free?
Yes, this homemade lemon Dijon dressing is naturally gluten-free! It’s made with whole, unprocessed ingredients like olive oil, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard, making it a great option for gluten-free diets.
Can I make this dressing vegan?
Absolutely! To make this recipe vegan, simply swap honey for maple syrup or your preferred vegan sweetener. This simple substitution ensures your dressing is both vegan and plant-based.
Can I use Dijon mustard substitute in this recipe?
Yes! If you don’t have Dijon mustard on hand, you can use yellow mustard or whole grain mustard for a slightly different flavor. The tanginess will remain, but the texture might change slightly.
How do I make this dressing creamy?
To make this lemon Dijon dressing creamy, simply whisk in Greek yogurt or mayonnaise. Start with 1-2 tablespoons and adjust to your desired consistency. This adds richness and a creamy texture perfect for those who prefer a thicker dressing.
Can I use this dressing for marinating meat?
Yes, this dressing works wonderfully as a marinade for chicken, beef, fish, or tofu. The lemon tenderizes the meat while the Dijon mustard adds a bold, tangy flavor. Marinate for 30 minutes to 2 hours for the best results.
Can I freeze this dressing?
While it’s not ideal to freeze salad dressings (due to separation), you can store the dressing in the fridge for up to 1 week. Freezing could cause the oil to separate, affecting texture and flavor.
Is this dressing good for keto or low-carb diets?
Yes! This lemon Dijon salad dressing is naturally low-carb and keto-friendly. It contains no sugar, making it a perfect choice for keto, paleo, or low-carb diets. Just skip the sweetener or use a keto-friendly sweetener like stevia or monk fruit.
Conclusion
There you have it—your new favorite homemade lemon Dijon salad dressing recipe! With its bright, zesty flavor and versatility, this dressing will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re drizzling it over a crisp salad, using it as a marinade, or pairing it with roasted vegetables, it’s the perfect addition to any meal.
The best part? It’s not only delicious but also healthy, made with wholesome, natural ingredients you can trust. And since it’s quick to prepare and can be stored for up to a week, you’ll always have a flavorful dressing ready to go!
So, grab your lemon, Dijon mustard, and olive oil, and make a batch today—you’ll be amazed at how it transforms your dishes.
Enjoy and get creative with how you use this dressing. You’ll never look at store-bought dressings the same way again!
Homemade Lemon Dijon Salad Dressing
Equipment
- mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring Cups & Spoons
Ingredients
- ¼ cup Fresh Lemon Juice about 1-2 lemons
- 1 tbsp Dijon Mustard
- 1 tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar or White Wine Vinegar
- 1 tsp Honey or Maple Syrup optional
- 1 small clove Garlic minced (optional)
- ⅓ cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- ½ tsp Salt
- ¼ tsp Black Pepper
Instructions
- 1️⃣ Combine Base Ingredients
- In a small mixing bowl or mason jar, whisk together lemon juice, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, honey (if using), and minced garlic.
- 2️⃣ Slowly Add Olive Oil
- While whisking, slowly drizzle in the olive oil to emulsify the dressing. If using a mason jar, seal and shake vigorously.
- 3️⃣ Season & Adjust
- Add salt and black pepper, then taste. Adjust with more lemon juice, olive oil, or seasoning as needed.
- 4️⃣ Store or Serve
- Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. Shake before use.
Notes
- Serving Ideas: Drizzle over salads, use as a marinade for chicken or tofu, or toss with roasted veggies.
- Storage Tip: If the olive oil solidifies in the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before shaking.
Looking for more homemade salad dressing ideas? Check out our Ultimate Guide to Homemade Salad Dressings!