Basil Lemon Vinaigrette Dressing

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Introduction

Discover the magic of homemade dressings with this refreshing basil lemon vinaigrette recipe. Bursting with vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients, it’s perfect for livening up salads, vegetables, or even as a versatile marinade. This simple yet flavorful dressing is easy to prepare and offers a tangy and herbaceous taste that will elevate any dish.

Detailed Ingredients with Measures

– Fresh basil leaves, about 1 cup (packed)

– Freshly squeezed lemon juice, 2 tablespoons

– Extra virgin olive oil, 1/3 cup

– Dijon mustard, 2 teaspoons

– Honey or maple syrup for sweetness, 1 teaspoon

– Minced garlic, 1 clove

– Salt, 1/4 teaspoon, or to taste

– Ground black pepper, 1/8 teaspoon, or to taste

The combination of these simple ingredients makes for a clean, zesty, and slightly sweet dressing. The fresh basil leaves provide a herbaceous aroma, while the lemon juice adds a tangy brightness.

Prep Time

This recipe is a quick and hassle-free option, with a total prep time of just 10 minutes. It’s a fantastic solution for those looking to create their own delicious dressing without spending too much time in the kitchen. Simply gather your ingredients and follow the straightforward cooking process.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

– There’s no cook time involved as this is a no-cook recipe, making it incredibly convenient.

– Total time to prepare the basil lemon vinaigrette is 10 minutes.

– With these measurements, the recipe yields approximately 4 servings, although it can easily be scaled up or down to suit your needs.

So, whether you’re an avid gardener looking to use up your fresh basil or just craving a bright and flavorful dressing, this recipe is a must-try. Its simple ingredients, quick preparation time, and versatile use make it a wholesome addition to your kitchen favorites.

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Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

– Wash the fresh basil leaves thoroughly to remove any dirt or residue.
– Peel and mince the garlic cloves.
– Measure the olive oil, Dijon mustard, freshly squeezed lemon juice, white wine vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper.

Step 2: Add Ingredients to Blender

– Place the basil, garlic, olive oil, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, white wine vinegar, and honey into a high-speed blender or food processor.
– Add the salt and pepper to your taste preference.

Step 3: Blend Until Smooth

– Blend the ingredients on high for 20-30 seconds or until the vinaigrette has a smooth and creamy consistency. Stop blending and scrape down the sides if necessary.
– If the vinaigrette is too thick, add in 1-2 teaspoons of water and blend again to adjust the consistency.

Step 4: Check Seasoning

– Taste the dressing and adjust seasoning as needed by adding more salt, pepper, honey, or lemon juice to suit your preference.

Step 5: Serve or Store

– Use immediately by drizzling the basil lemon vinaigrette over your favorite salad, vegetables, or dish.
– Alternatively, transfer the dressing to an airtight container or jar for storage in the refrigerator.

Notes

Note on Basil

– For the best flavor, use fresh basil leaves. Dried basil will not work well in this recipe.

Note on Vinegar

– If you don’t have white wine vinegar, you can substitute it with apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar, although it may slightly alter the flavor.

Note on Honey

– Honey acts as a natural sweetener and balances the acidity of the dressing. You can use maple syrup or agave syrup as a substitute if desired.

Note on Storage

– Store leftover dressing in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days. Shake well before using again.

Note on Consistency

– If the dressing thickens after refrigeration, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before using. You can also add a small amount of water to thin it out when blending again.

Note on Serving

– This vinaigrette pairs well with fresh greens, roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or seafood dishes.
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Cook Techniques

Prepare Fresh Ingredients

Use fresh basil, lemons, and garlic for the best flavor. Wash and thoroughly dry the basil leaves to avoid adding excess moisture to the dressing.

Blending for Creamy Texture

Use a high-speed blender or food processor to emulsify the dressing ingredients. This ensures a creamy and smooth consistency.

Control the Balance of Flavors

Adjust the sweetener, lemon juice, or salt to your preference. Taste the dressing as you blend and modify it to suit your palate.

Use Quality Olive Oil

Choose extra virgin olive oil for a rich and robust flavor. Avoid using refined oils, as they can alter the taste of the vinaigrette.

Storage for Freshness

Store the vinaigrette in an airtight container or mason jar in the refrigerator. Shake or stir before serving, as separation may occur over time.

FAQ

Can I use dried basil instead of fresh basil?

Fresh basil offers the best flavor for this recipe. Using dried basil may result in a less vibrant taste and color.

How long does the basil lemon vinaigrette last?

The dressing can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 7 days in an airtight container.

Can I substitute the lemon juice with another citrus?

Yes, lime or orange juice can be substituted, but the flavor profile will change slightly.

What type of sweetener works best in this recipe?

Honey or maple syrup is recommended for natural sweetness, but other sweeteners like agave or sugar can also be used.

Do I need a blender to make this recipe?

Using a blender or food processor ensures the vinaigrette is well-emulsified, but you can whisk the ingredients together thoroughly as an alternative.

Can this be used as a marinade?

Yes, the basil lemon vinaigrette works well as a marinade for chicken, fish, and vegetables.

Why does my vinaigrette separate after storing?

Natural separation occurs because there are no preservatives or stabilizers. Shake or stir the vinaigrette before using to mix the ingredients.
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Conclusion

This bright and zesty Basil Lemon Vinaigrette Dressing is a wonderful accompaniment that can elevate almost any dish. Its fresh and tangy flavors provide the perfect balance for salads, roasted vegetables, and even grilled proteins. Thanks to its simple ingredients and quick preparation, you can easily whip it up to add a gourmet touch to your meals. Plus, the combination of basil and lemon makes it a versatile dressing you’ll love keeping on hand for a variety of recipes.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Grilled Chicken Salad

Drizzle this vinaigrette over a freshly made grilled chicken salad. The tangy lemon and herby basil perfectly complement the savory chicken.

Roasted Vegetables

Toss roasted asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers with the vinaigrette for an incredible burst of flavor.

Caprese Salad Enhancement

Use this dressing instead of traditional balsamic to add a vibrant twist to your Caprese salad with mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil leaves.

Grain Bowl Add-On

Pour over a quinoa or farro grain bowl for an earthy yet refreshing touch infused with citrus and herbs.

Marinade for Grilled Fish

Use this dressing as a marinade for grilled salmon or cod to achieve a delicate, fresh flavor profile.

Basil-Lemon Pasta Salad

Toss the vinaigrette with pasta, cherry tomatoes, olives, and spinach for a quick and flavorful pasta salad.

Fresh Garden Salad

Enhance your basic garden salad with the zippy and aromatic combination of lemon and basil in this vinaigrette.

Vegetable Wraps

Add this dressing to vegetarian wraps filled with greens, cucumbers, and sprouts for an extra layer of flavor.

Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Brush over grilled shrimp skewers before serving for a citrusy, herby upgrade.

Savory Breakfast Bowls

Drizzle it over avocado toast or breakfast egg bowls to bring a bright and fresh element to your morning meal.