Simple Homemade Lemon Basil Vinaigrette - A delicious recipe by DigiDish

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!

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You know those moments when a salad just needs a little pizzazz, a little something to make it sing? That’s where this Simple Homemade Lemon Basil Vinaigrette comes in, my friends! It’s bright, herby, and ridiculously easy to whip up – no culinary wizardry required. There's something immensely satisfying about making your own dressing at home, and this one? It’s like bottling up summertime sunshine in your kitchen. Whether you're tossing it with crisp greens or drizzling it over roasted veggies, this vinaigrette will leave your taste buds doing a happy dance.

Simple Homemade Lemon Basil Vinaigrette Recipe

What makes this recipe so special, you ask? Oh, let me tell you! The dynamic duo of lemon and basil is a flavor dream team. You’ve got zesty, tangy lemon juice mingling with the sweet, peppery goodness of fresh basil leaves. Add a subtle kick of Dijon mustard and a luxuriously smooth olive oil finish, and boom – you’ve got a vinaigrette with layers of flavor that taste anything but basic. And can we talk about its versatility? Think beyond salad bowls – this vinaigrette doubles as a marinade for grilled chicken or even a drizzle over fresh mozzarella and tomatoes for a no-fuss caprese upgrade.

When it comes to tips, keep it simple but precise. Fresh basil is the star, so make sure those leaves are bright green and fragrant. Don’t skimp on the olive oil either – a good quality extra virgin option makes all the difference. If you want ultra-creamy vinaigrette, blend it up instead of whisking; this emulsifies the oil and lemon juice for a silky texture. Oh, and pro tip: taste as you go! Every lemon is a little different in acidity, so feel free to tweak the balance by adding a pinch of sugar or a splash more lemon juice, depending on your preference.

Now, it’s your turn to try this zesty wonder in your own kitchen! It’s perfect as-is for a classic salad, but don’t stop there. Try swapping basil for fresh mint or parsley for a fun twist. Serve it on a citrusy quinoa salad, spoon it over roasted salmon, or even use it to brighten up your lunchtime grain bowls. This vinaigrette isn’t just a recipe; it’s an invitation to experiment and elevate whatever you’re cooking. So grab your whisk and let’s shake up something delicious together!

Keywords: homemade lemon basil vinaigrette, easy homemade salad dressing, fresh basil vinaigrette recipe, zesty salad dressing recipe, simple vinaigrette for salads, lemon basil dressing ideas, versatile homemade dressings

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. 1

    In a small bowl or jar, combine the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, honey (if using), salt, and pepper.

  2. 2

    Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously until the vinaigrette is emulsified.

  3. 3

    Stir in the finely chopped basil leaves.

  4. 4

    Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or honey if needed.

  5. 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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