Print

Lebanese Salad Dressing with Lemon and Garlic

Lebanese Salad Dressing with Lemon and Garlic

Lebanese Salad Dressing with Lemon and Garlic is a fresh, zesty, and savory dressing that instantly brightens salads and complements a variety of dishes. Made with simple pantry ingredients like fresh lemon juice, garlic, extra virgin olive oil, sea salt, and black pepper, this dressing embodies vibrant Mediterranean flavors. It’s quick to prepare, healthy, and versatile, perfect for enhancing salads, grilled meats, roasted vegetables, and more.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 2 garlic cloves, peeled and finely minced
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • Pinch of sea salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: Fresh parsley, finely chopped

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Garlic: Peel and finely mince two fresh garlic cloves to ensure no overpowering chunks and to release maximum flavor.
  2. Squeeze Fresh Lemon Juice: Roll a fresh lemon on the countertop to soften it, cut in half, and juice thoroughly to extract about 3 tablespoons of juice for bright and zesty flavor.
  3. Whisk Olive Oil and Lemon: In a small bowl, combine the lemon juice and 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil. Whisk continuously until the mixture emulsifies and becomes slightly creamy, blending the flavors perfectly.
  4. Season and Blend: Add the minced garlic, a pinch of sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk again to fully incorporate and balance the strong flavors into a harmonious dressing.
  5. Add Fresh Herbs (Optional): Finely chop fresh parsley or other herbs and stir them into the dressing for a burst of color and an extra layer of freshness.

Notes

  • Use fresh lemon juice and garlic for the brightest, cleanest flavor.
  • Whisk olive oil slowly into lemon juice to create a smooth emulsion.
  • Adjust salt, pepper, and lemon juice incrementally to achieve desired taste.
  • Refrigerate dressing for 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and mellow.
  • Use a garlic press for a finer garlic texture and to avoid harsh bites.
  • Keep leftover dressing refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Stir before use.
  • Freezing is not recommended as it affects texture and flavor.
  • Serve cold or at room temperature; do not reheat.

Nutrition

Keywords: Lebanese salad dressing, lemon garlic dressing, Mediterranean dressing, healthy salad dressing, vegan dressing, gluten free dressing