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If you’re looking for a bright lemon Dijon dressing that tastes fresh and homemade, this is the one I swear you’ll come back to again and again. The combination of fresh lemon juice and bold Dijon mustard creates a classic vinaigrette base, while a touch of maple syrup adds subtle sweetness without overpowering the citrus.
And if you love lemon dressings, be sure to check out my lemon tahini dressing next!
Why You’ll Love This Lemon Dressing
Unlike simple dressings without mustard, this lemon vinaigrette uses Dijon mustard to help emulsify it. This is one of my go-to dressings because it works on everything from simple bean salads to grain bowls, roasted vegetables, and grilled vegan chicken. It’s light, vibrant, and endlessly versatile.
Emily’s Recipe Notes:
- Flavor: Bright, zesty, and citrusy
- Texture: Smooth, rich and balanced
- Difficulty: Super easy
- Time: Under 3 minutes
Ingredients
Ingredient Highlights & Some Swaps
Lemons
This dressing calls for both lemon zest and fresh lemon juice. You’ll need about 1 lemon for the recipe below. Fresh is best!
Dijon Mustard
Dijon mustard adds a layer of flavor, the tiniest hint of spiciness and helps emulsify the dressing.
You can use your favorite brands from Grey Poupon to generic Dijon. Smooth mustard works great here but you can also sub in whole grain Dijon.
If you don’t have Dijon, you can use 1/2 teaspoon of vegan mayo mixed with 1/2 teaspoon of regular yellow mustard instead. This will create a slightly creamier texture.
Extra Virgin Olive oil
A high quality olive oil is super important in this recipe. So much of the flavor comes from the olive oil!
Maple Syrup
Just a touch of pure maple syrup really helps balance out the tartness of the lemon juice. You can also use agave nectar or vegan honey.
How to Make This Easy Lemon Dressing
Exact ingredient quantities are in the recipe card below!
Zest the lemon and then juice it.
Whisk all the ingredients together in a small jar until uniform. Taste and adjust salt or sweetness as needed. That’s it!
Ways to Use This Vinaigrette
I make this dressing all the time because I almost always have everything for it in my fridge. There’s usually a lemon in the drawer and a jar of Dijon on the door, so it’s easy to whisk together without planning ahead.
Most often, I toss it with whatever greens I have on hand. I also use it on kale salads (it helps soften the leaves), drizzle it over roasted vegetables or tofu right on the sheet pan, or stir it into grain bowls with farro. It’s great on lentil or chickpea salads too!
Honestly, once it’s in the fridge, I end up putting it on everything. Below are a couple recipes to try it with:
More Easy Dressings to Try
Lemon Dijon Dressing
Rate this RecipeIngredients
- 1 tbsp lemon zest, loosely packed – about 1 lemon or 3g
- 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice, 40g – plus more to taste
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil, 48g
- ¼ tsp fresh ground black pepper, 2g
- ½ tsp table salt, 3g
- 1 tsp maple syrup or agave nectar, 14g – or use this vegan honey
- 1 tsp dijon mustard, 5g
Instructions
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, maple syrup, salt, black pepper and Dijon mustard.
- Taste and adjust sweetness or salt as desired.
- Drizzle over your favorite salads, bowls, tacos and more. Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
Recipe notes
Did You Make This?
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Categories:
10 Ingredients or Less, 30 Minutes or Less, Basics, Feel Good Food, Seasonal, Spring, Summer, Vegan & Gluten-free, Vegan Recipes, Vegan Sauces,
Did You Make This Easy Lemon Dressing with Dijon?
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