Lemon Maple Dijon Vinaigrette
Highlighted under: Lean & Light Cooking
A zesty and sweet dressing that perfectly complements salads and grilled vegetables.
This Lemon Maple Dijon Vinaigrette is a delightful blend of tangy lemon juice, sweet maple syrup, and zesty Dijon mustard. It’s the perfect dressing for any salad or as a marinade for grilled veggies. Quick to whip up and bursting with flavor, this vinaigrette is sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Bright citrus flavor balanced with natural sweetness
- Versatile dressing that elevates any salad
- Made with simple, wholesome ingredients
- Ready in just minutes for a quick meal addition
The Perfect Balance of Flavor
Lemon Maple Dijon Vinaigrette offers a delightful balance of brightness and sweetness. The fresh lemon juice introduces a zesty tang that awakens the palate, while the pure maple syrup adds a gentle sweetness, making this dressing a standout choice for a variety of dishes. This unique flavor combination not only enhances salads but also brings grilled vegetables to life, making each bite a refreshing experience.
The Dijon mustard provides a subtle depth and a hint of spice, further elevating this vinaigrette. This multi-dimensional flavor profile ensures that every drizzle is a burst of deliciousness, perfect for both casual lunches and elegant dinners. When you want a dressing that does more than just coat your greens, this vinaigrette is the ideal solution.
Versatility in Your Kitchen
One of the best features of Lemon Maple Dijon Vinaigrette is its versatility. It pairs wonderfully with a wide range of ingredients, from crisp greens like arugula and kale to heartier options such as quinoa or roasted vegetables. You can also use it as a marinade for chicken or fish, infusing your proteins with a bright, tangy flavor that complements their natural richness.
This vinaigrette is also perfect for drizzling over grain bowls, pasta salads, or even as a dipping sauce for fresh bread. Its adaptability means you can easily make it a staple in your kitchen, providing a quick and flavorful lift to your meals without the need for complicated recipes.
Quick and Easy Preparation
Preparing your Lemon Maple Dijon Vinaigrette is as simple as mixing a few wholesome ingredients. In just a few minutes, you can have a fresh dressing ready to enhance your meals. This simplicity makes it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings, where you need a delicious addition without the fuss.
By making your own vinaigrette, you also have complete control over the ingredients, allowing you to tailor it to your taste preferences. Whether you prefer a little extra sweetness or a more pronounced lemon flavor, this recipe is easily adjustable. Just remember to taste and tweak as you go!
Ingredients
Ingredients for Lemon Maple Dijon Vinaigrette
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients in a jar and shake well.
Instructions
Mix the Ingredients
In a medium bowl or jar, combine the lemon juice, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and olive oil.
Season to Taste
Add salt and pepper as desired, then whisk or shake until well combined.
Serve or Store
Use immediately or store in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Enjoy your homemade Lemon Maple Dijon Vinaigrette!
Storage and Shelf Life
Lemon Maple Dijon Vinaigrette is not only quick to prepare but also easy to store. Once made, you can keep it in an airtight container or a jar with a tight-fitting lid in the refrigerator. This dressing stays fresh for up to a week, making it a convenient option for meal prepping.
Before using, give the vinaigrette a good shake or stir, as the ingredients may separate over time. If you find that the flavors have mellowed, feel free to add a splash more lemon juice or maple syrup to rejuvenate its vibrancy.
Serving Suggestions
This zesty vinaigrette shines as a salad dressing, but its uses extend far beyond greens. Drizzle it over steamed veggies or roasted root vegetables for an instant flavor boost. You can also mix it into grain salads to add a refreshing twist, complementing ingredients like chickpeas, feta cheese, or avocado beautifully.
For a delightful appetizer, use it as a dipping sauce alongside fresh bread or vegetable crudités. The versatility of this vinaigrette means you can get creative and discover new ways to incorporate it into your meals, adding a burst of flavor wherever you go.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different sweetener?
Yes, honey or agave syrup can be used as alternatives to maple syrup.
→ How long can I store the vinaigrette?
It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
→ Is this vinaigrette vegan?
Yes, this recipe is vegan as it contains no animal products.
→ What can I use this vinaigrette on?
It’s perfect for salads, grilled vegetables, or as a marinade for chicken or tofu.
Lemon Maple Dijon Vinaigrette
A zesty and sweet dressing that perfectly complements salads and grilled vegetables.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Lean & Light Cooking
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 1 cup
What You'll Need
Ingredients for Lemon Maple Dijon Vinaigrette
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a medium bowl or jar, combine the lemon juice, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and olive oil.
Add salt and pepper as desired, then whisk or shake until well combined.
Use immediately or store in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 10g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 8g
- Protein: 0g