Lemon Thyme Vinaigrette

A delicious dressing can really take your salad game to the next level.

For me, nothing beats a simple homemade dressing made using fresh, seasonal ingredients. In celebration of spring, I was inspired to create this lemon honey thyme vinaigrette using fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, honey, garlic, and some thyme from my garden.

This dressing is quick and easy to make, pairing perfectly with spring-inspired leafy green salads, grain salads, or even potato and pasta salads. You can also use it to marinate meat or dip crusty bread.

Ingredients & Substitutions

Here are some notes on key ingredients. For a full list of ingredients, check out the recipe card below.

• Lemon Juice + Zest- You'll need one whole lemon for this recipe. Use fresh lemon zest and freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor. Zest only the colorful outer part of the lemon peel, avoiding the bitter white pith beneath.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil- Gives the dressing a creamy texture and slightly peppery flavor. You can swap the olive oil for your preferred salad oil.
• Honey- Adds a sweetness to the dressing that balances the acidity of the lemon. Honey can be substituted with maple syrup or even a bit of granulated sugar.
• Dijon Mustard- Mustard acts as an emulsifier in this lemon vinaigrette recipe. It also adds a tangy flavor that pairs well with the lemon juice.
• Fresh Thyme- Adds a subtle earthy flavor to the dressing. Feel free to swap thyme for your favorite fresh herbs - try mint, basil, rosemary, and oregano.
• Garlic- Freshly grated or finely minced garlic imparts a bold garlic flavor to the vinaigrette that really helps it shine. Avoid using jarred garlic or garlic powder as substitutes.
• Salt + Pepper- I like to use kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper for the best flavor.

🌱 Sustainability Tip: Thyme is simple to grow in your garden or on your kitchen windowsill, making it convenient to pick whenever you need it.

How to Make Lemon Thyme Salad Dressing

Here is how to make lemon herb vinaigrette with fresh thyme.

Step 1: Combine dressing ingredients. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the lemon zest, lemon juice, dijon mustard, honey, garlic, thyme, kosher salt, and black pepper. Whisk together until well combined.

Step 2: Whisk in olive oil. While whisking continuously, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture is fully emulsified. You can place the bowl on a damp kitchen towel to prevent it from sliding around on the counter.

Step 3: Chill and serve. Taste for seasoning by dipping lettuce in the dressing and adjust as needed. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes for the best flavor. Whisk again before serving.

How to Use Lemon Thyme Vinaigrette

This creamy lemon garlic thyme vinaigrette is perfect for adding a bright, citrusy flavor to any salad recipe. I love it with asparagus farro salad, strawberry spinach salad, kale salad, arugula quinoa salad, and herbed potato salad.

You can also use it as a quick homemade marinade for grilled chicken, steak tips, or shrimp skewers. Or dip some crusty warm sourdough bread or garlic breadsticks into it for an easy appetizer.

How to Store

Store lemon vinaigrette dressing in a covered bowl or mason jar with a tight-fitting lid in the refrigerator for up to one week.

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