Lemon Vinaigrette
Lemon Vinaigrette Recipe - Vegan & Vegetarian Food from France
Introduction
Lemon vinaigrette is a versatile and tangy dressing that can be used to enhance the flavor of salads, vegetables, and even grilled meats. Its bright and refreshing taste makes it a popular choice for many dishes.
History
The origins of lemon vinaigrette can be traced back to French cuisine, where vinaigrettes are commonly used as dressings for salads. The addition of lemon juice adds a citrusy twist to the traditional vinaigrette, creating a unique and flavorful dressing.
Ingredients
- 0.5 cup of olive oil
- 1.88 tsp of white vinegar
- 3 tbsp of fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp of minced shallot
- 1.5 tsp of dijon mustard
- 0.5 tsp of grated lemon peel
- 0.5 tsp of brown sugar
How to prepare
- In a bowl, whisk together all the ingredients until well blended.
- Season with salt and pepper. Transfer the lemon-based vinaigrette into a plastic bottle.
- This vinaigrette can be used as a salad dressing or a dip. Store it in the refrigerator for later use.
Variations
- Add a pinch of dried herbs such as oregano or thyme for extra flavor.
- Substitute honey for the brown sugar for a sweeter vinaigrette.
- Use lime juice instead of lemon juice for a different citrus twist.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to whisk the ingredients together thoroughly to ensure that the vinaigrette is well blended.
- Adjust the amount of lemon juice and vinegar to suit your taste preferences.
- Store the vinaigrette in a sealed container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh for longer.
Serving Suggestions
This lemon vinaigrette is perfect for drizzling over a mixed green salad, roasted vegetables, or grilled chicken.
Cooking Techniques
Whisking the ingredients together is the main cooking technique used in this recipe.
Ingredient Substitutions
White wine vinegar can be used instead of white vinegar.
- Red onion can be used in place of shallots.
- Honey can be used as a substitute for brown sugar.
Make Ahead Tips
This lemon vinaigrette can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Presentation Ideas
Serve the lemon vinaigrette in a small pitcher or drizzle it over a salad just before serving for a fresh and vibrant presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
This lemon vinaigrette pairs well with a variety of dishes, including grilled fish, shrimp, or a simple green salad.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store the lemon vinaigrette in a sealed container in the refrigerator. Allow it to come to room temperature before using, and give it a good shake or stir before serving.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of this lemon vinaigrette contains approximately 120 calories.
Carbohydrates
The carbohydrates in this lemon vinaigrette come from the brown sugar, which adds a touch of sweetness to the dressing.
Fats
The main source of fat in this vinaigrette comes from the olive oil, which is a heart-healthy fat that provides a rich and smooth texture to the dressing.
Proteins
There are no significant sources of protein in this lemon vinaigrette.
Vitamins and minerals
Lemon juice is a good source of vitamin C, which is an antioxidant that helps boost the immune system and promote healthy skin.
Alergens
This recipe contains shallots, which may be a potential allergen for some individuals.
Summary
Overall, this lemon vinaigrette is a light and flavorful dressing that can be enjoyed as part of a healthy diet in moderation.
Summary
Lemon vinaigrette is a simple and delicious dressing that can elevate the flavor of many dishes. With its bright and tangy taste, it is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
How did I get this recipe?
I remember the excitement that washed over me when I first saw this recipe for Lemon Vinaigrette. It was many years ago, during a trip to Provence, France. I had always been drawn to the vibrant colors and flavors of French cuisine, and I couldn't wait to bring a taste of it back home with me.
During my stay in Provence, I had the opportunity to visit a small, family-owned vineyard. The owner, a kind elderly woman named Marie, welcomed me into her kitchen and showed me how to make her famous Lemon Vinaigrette. She explained that the key to a good vinaigrette is to use the freshest ingredients possible, and to let the flavors of the herbs and spices meld together over time.
As I watched Marie deftly whisk together olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic, and a touch of honey, I knew I had stumbled upon a recipe that would become a staple in my own kitchen. The bright, citrusy flavor of the lemons combined with the sharpness of the mustard and the sweetness of the honey created a perfect balance of flavors that danced on my taste buds.
After my visit to the vineyard, I spent the rest of my time in Provence exploring the local markets and gathering the ingredients I would need to recreate Marie's Lemon Vinaigrette at home. I made sure to pick up a bottle of the vineyard's own olive oil, as well as some fresh herbs and spices to add an extra layer of depth to the dressing.
When I returned home, I wasted no time in getting to work on perfecting my own version of Marie's Lemon Vinaigrette. I spent hours in the kitchen, experimenting with different ratios of ingredients and adjusting the seasonings until I had created a vinaigrette that was just as bright and flavorful as the one I had tasted in Provence.
Over the years, I have continued to make this Lemon Vinaigrette for family and friends, always receiving glowing reviews and requests for the recipe. It has become a staple at family gatherings and dinner parties, adding a burst of freshness to salads, grilled vegetables, and even grilled meats.
I like to think of Marie, the kind woman who first shared this recipe with me, whenever I make this vinaigrette. I imagine her hands expertly whisking together the ingredients, her smile as she watches me recreate her creation in my own kitchen.
As I sit down to enjoy a salad dressed with my homemade Lemon Vinaigrette, I am reminded of the power of food to connect us to different cultures and traditions. This simple recipe has brought me closer to the flavors of Provence, and to the memory of a kind woman who shared her passion for cooking with me.
I am grateful for the experiences and people who have shaped my culinary journey, and I look forward to continuing to explore new recipes and flavors in the years to come. But no matter where my travels may take me, I know that this Lemon Vinaigrette will always have a special place in my heart and in my kitchen.
Categories
| Condiment Recipes | Dijon Mustard Recipes | Dip Recipes | French Recipes | Fruit Recipes | Lemon Juice Recipes | Lemon Peel Recipes | Lemon Recipes | Mustard Recipes | No-cook Recipes | Quick And Easy Recipes | Salad Dressing Recipes | Shallot Recipes | Three-step Recipes | Vegan Recipes | Vegetarian Recipes | Vinaigrette Recipes | Vinegar Recipes | World Recipes |