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Basic Lemon Vinaigrette

This classic lemon vinaigrette is an essential staple for any home cook, offering a bright and zesty finish to a wide variety of dishes. By using high-quality olive oil and fresh citrus, you can create a vibrant dressing that far surpasses shop-bought alternatives. The sharp acidity of the lemon juice perfectly balances the richness of the oil, resulting in a clean, sophisticated flavour profile that enhances rather than masks your ingredients.

As a versatile vegan dressing, this vinaigrette is ideal for drizzling over crisp seasonal salads, massaged kale, or even warm roasted root vegetables. It is naturally gluten-free and can be prepared in less than five minutes, making it a healthy and convenient choice for quick midweek meals. Simply store any leftovers in a jar in the fridge for an easy way to brighten up your lunches throughout the week.

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Ingredients for Basic Lemon Vinaigrette

  • 160ml olive oil

  • 80ml fresh lemon juice

  • Kosher salt, freshly ground pepper

Whisk oil and lemon juice in a small bowl or shake in a resealable jar to emulsify; season with salt and pepper.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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