Garlic-Lemon Dressing

Albanian Garlic-Lemon Dressing Recipe | Authentic & Flavorful

Region / culture: Albania | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

Garlic-Lemon Dressing is a versatile and flavorful dressing that can elevate any dish with its zesty and aromatic flavors. This dressing is easy to make and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, making it a convenient option for adding a burst of flavor to your meals.

History

The combination of garlic and lemon in dressings has been a popular choice in Mediterranean cuisine for centuries. The bright and tangy flavors of lemon complement the pungent and savory notes of garlic, creating a well-balanced dressing that can enhance a variety of dishes.

Ingredients

1 small garlic clove
1 sprig of rosemary
1 strip of lemon peel (1" x 0.5")
0.75 cup of olive oil
0.25 cup of lemon juice

How to prepare

Place the garlic and rosemary on a cutting board and gently crush them using the flat side of a heavy knife.
Transfer the crushed rosemary, garlic, and lemon peel into a clean bottle with a tight-fitting cap.
Add the oil and lemon juice into the bottle.
Securely cap the bottle and shake it vigorously.
Refrigerate the bottle and use the mixture within one week.
Remember to shake the bottle before serving.
Drizzle the mixture over steamed vegetables, seafood, pasta, potato salad, or other salads.

Variations

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Substitute lime juice for lemon juice for a different citrus flavor.
Add a teaspoon of honey for a touch of sweetness.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to crush the garlic and rosemary gently to release their flavors without overpowering the dressing.

- Shake the bottle vigorously before using the dressing to ensure that the ingredients are well mixed.

- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor in this dressing.

Serving Suggestions

Garlic-Lemon Dressing can be drizzled over steamed vegetables, seafood, pasta, potato salad, or other salads for a burst of flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Shake the bottle vigorously to mix the ingredients before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

Substitute fresh rosemary with dried rosemary.

- Use lime juice instead of lemon juice for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

Garlic-Lemon Dressing can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Garlic-Lemon Dressing in a decorative bottle or jar for a stylish presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Garlic-Lemon Dressing pairs well with grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store Garlic-Lemon Dressing in the refrigerator and shake well before serving. Do not heat the dressing.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Garlic-Lemon Dressing contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Garlic-Lemon Dressing contains approximately 1 gram of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Garlic-Lemon Dressing contains approximately 22 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Garlic-Lemon Dressing contains negligible amounts of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Garlic-Lemon Dressing is a good source of vitamin C from the lemon juice.

Alergens

This recipe contains garlic and olive oil, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Garlic-Lemon Dressing is a flavorful dressing that is low in carbohydrates and protein but high in healthy fats. It is a good source of vitamin C and provides a moderate amount of calories per serving.

Summary

Garlic-Lemon Dressing is a versatile and flavorful dressing that can enhance a variety of dishes with its zesty and aromatic flavors. This easy-to-make dressing is a great addition to your culinary repertoire.

How did I get this recipe?

I distinctly remember the moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Garlic-Lemon Dressing. It was a warm summer day, much like today, and I found myself browsing through an old cookbook that belonged to my mother. As I turned the worn pages, a faded piece of paper fell out, revealing a handwritten recipe titled "Garlic-Lemon Dressing."

The words were scribbled in elegant cursive, and I could tell that this was a cherished recipe. I immediately felt a connection to it, as if it had been waiting for me to discover it all along. The ingredients were simple yet intriguing - fresh garlic, zesty lemon juice, tangy mustard, and fragrant olive oil. I knew I had to try it.

With a sense of excitement, I gathered the ingredients and set to work in the kitchen. The scent of garlic filled the air as I minced it finely, adding just the right amount of zest to the dressing. The lemon juice added a refreshing tanginess, while the mustard brought a subtle kick of flavor. And of course, the olive oil tied it all together, creating a smooth and velvety texture.

As I whisked the ingredients together, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and accomplishment. I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my own culinary repertoire, a treasure that I would pass down to future generations. And so, with a smile on my face, I poured the dressing into a small jar and placed it in the refrigerator to chill.

The next day, I served the Garlic-Lemon Dressing over a crisp green salad, sprinkled with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. The flavors were bright and vibrant, a perfect complement to the summer day. My family raved about the dressing, asking for the recipe and begging for more.

From that moment on, the Garlic-Lemon Dressing became a beloved favorite in our household. I made it for every special occasion, from birthdays to holidays to Sunday dinners. It never failed to impress, its bold flavors leaving a lasting impression on all who tasted it.

Over the years, I shared the recipe with friends and neighbors, who marveled at its simplicity and deliciousness. They often asked me where I had learned to make such a unique dressing, and I would simply smile and say that it was a family secret passed down through the generations.

And indeed, it was. As I delved deeper into my family history, I discovered that the recipe for Garlic-Lemon Dressing had been passed down from my great-grandmother, who had learned it from her own mother. It had traveled through time and space, making its way into my hands and heart, where it would remain forever.

I often think about the moment I stumbled upon that recipe, tucked away in an old cookbook. It was a serendipitous discovery, a gift from the past that would shape my future in ways I could never have imagined. And as I continue to make the Garlic-Lemon Dressing for my loved ones, I am reminded of the enduring power of tradition and the joy of sharing a good meal with those we hold dear.

So here I am, years later, still making that same Garlic-Lemon Dressing that has brought so much happiness and flavor into my life. And as I drizzle it over a fresh salad or a grilled chicken breast, I can't help but feel grateful for the culinary journey that led me to this moment. For in the simple act of cooking and sharing a meal, I have found a connection to my past and a promise for the future. And that, my dear, is the true magic of a good recipe.