
Simple Homemade Lemon Basil Vinaigrette
Zesty, fresh, and oh-so-easy! This Simple Homemade Lemon Basil Vinaigrette will transform any salad into a masterpiece. With bright lemon, fragrant basil, and a whisk of love, it’s the perfect way to add a pop of flavor. Let’s shake up something delicious together in minutes!
5.0 out of 5 (1 rating)

Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
Servings
4 servings
Cuisine
American
Ingredients
- •1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- •1 tablespoon lemon zest
- •1/3 cup olive oil
- •2 tablespoons fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
- •1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- •1 teaspoon honey (optional for sweetness)
- •1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- •1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste
Instructions
- 1
In a small bowl or jar, combine the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, honey (if using), salt, and pepper.
- 2
Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously until the vinaigrette is emulsified.
- 3
Stir in the finely chopped basil leaves.
- 4
Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or honey if needed.
- 5
Use immediately or refrigerate in an airtight container for up to one week. Shake or whisk before serving.
Nutrition Information
Calories
110 calories per 2 tablespoons
Protein
0g
Carbs
1g
Fat
11g
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I substitute dried basil for fresh basil in this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use dried basil if fresh basil is unavailable. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried basil as a substitute for the 2 tablespoons of fresh basil. However, keep in mind that fresh basil provides a brighter, more vibrant flavor compared to dried.
Q: How can I make this vinaigrette vegan?
A: To make this vinaigrette vegan, simply omit the honey or replace it with a plant-based sweetener like maple syrup or agave nectar. The flavor profile will still remain balanced and delicious.
Q: What’s the best way to store the vinaigrette, and how long will it last?
A: Store the vinaigrette in an airtight container, such as a mason jar, in the refrigerator. It will last for up to one week. Before using, give it a good shake or whisk to re-emulsify the ingredients, as separation is normal.
Q: Why does my vinaigrette separate after storing it?
A: Separation is natural because this vinaigrette is an emulsion, and the oil and lemon juice will separate over time. Simply shake the container or whisk the vinaigrette again before serving to bring it back together.
Q: What can I use instead of Dijon mustard?
A: If you don’t have Dijon mustard, you can substitute it with yellow mustard, whole-grain mustard, or even a small amount of apple cider vinegar for a tangy kick. Keep in mind that the flavor may vary slightly with these substitutions.
Q: How can I adjust the sweetness or acidity of the vinaigrette?
A: To adjust the sweetness, add more honey or your preferred sweetener in small increments until you reach your desired flavor. To reduce the acidity, you can increase the olive oil slightly or add a pinch of sugar to balance the tartness of the lemon juice.
Q: What are some serving suggestions for this vinaigrette?
A: This lemon basil vinaigrette is versatile and pairs beautifully with green salads, roasted vegetables, grain bowls, or as a marinade for chicken or fish. You can also drizzle it over fresh tomatoes or grilled asparagus for a refreshing burst of flavor.
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