Dinner

Simple Homemade Salad Dressing with Lemon and Herbes Recipe

BySophie Carsel April 15, 2026April 15, 2026

Introduction

This simple salad dressing is a versatile and flavorful addition to any leafy or garden salad. Made with basic pantry ingredients and fresh herbs, it brightens up vegetables with a perfect balance of tang, sweetness, and a hint of spice.

A close-up shot shows bright green curly lettuce leaves filling a white bowl, with a light yellow dressing being poured over the salad from a small container just above. The lettuce leaves are fresh and crisp, with some parts catching light, showing their texture and edges clearly. The background is a soft white marbled texture, blurred to keep focus on the salad. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 tbsp any vinegar or lemon juice (cider vinegar recommended)
3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil or other neutral oil
1/2 tsp Dijon mustard or other smooth non-spicy mustard
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 to 1 small garlic clove, pressed or smashed
1 tsp lemon zest
1/4 tsp sugar
1 tsp honey
Finely chopped fresh herbs
1/2 tsp dried herbs
Pinch of red pepper flakes

Instructions

Step 1: Place all dressing ingredients, including fresh and dried herbs and red pepper flakes, into a jar.
Step 2: Shake the jar well until the mustard dissolves and the dressing is fully combined.
Step 3: Use immediately to dress a big leafy salad for 4 people or a garden salad. Toss well before serving.

Tips & Variations

Make sure salad leaves are dry before tossing with dressing so it clings better.
Try substituting vinegar types—balsamic or white wine vinegar also work well.
Adjust garlic amount for a milder or stronger flavor.
Drizzle the dressing over steamed or roasted vegetables while hot for deeper absorption.
Add different fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or chives to vary the flavor.

Storage

Store the dressing in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to several weeks if you exclude fresh garlic and herbs. Give it a good shake before each use. It’s best added fresh to keep the bright flavors intact.

How to Serve

A close-up view of fresh, bright green leafy lettuce piled in a white bowl, with a thick, smooth golden-yellow dressing being poured from a small white pitcher onto the center of the leaves, highlighting the texture of the dressing as it drips and flows over the curly edges of the lettuce. The background shows a soft, white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use this dressing on cooked vegetables?

Yes, it’s perfect for drizzling over steamed, boiled, or roasted vegetables. Apply while the vegetables are still warm to help the flavors absorb fully.

What if I don’t have Dijon mustard?

You can use any smooth, mild mustard instead. If you don’t have mustard, the dressing will still work but might lack a bit of tang and emulsifying power.