Are you ready to elevate your salads and dishes to a whole new level? Discover the magic of the "ZTP Lemon Zest Vinaigrette," a zesty Italian dressing that will tantalize your taste buds and brighten up any meal! With just a handful of fresh ingredients, this quick and easy recipe takes only 5 minutes to prepare, making it a must-have in your culinary repertoire. Say goodbye to store-bought dressings and hello to a burst of fresh flavor that will have your friends and family begging for the secret! Dive into this delightful recipe that’s as versatile as it is delicious!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 5 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 1 cup
Ingredients
- Fresh lemon juice
- Lemon zest
- Olive oil
- Honey
- Salt
- Pepper
Instructions
- Thoroughly wash and dry the fresh lemon, ensuring the skin is clean for zesting.
- Using a microplane or fine grater, carefully zest the entire lemon surface, capturing only the bright yellow outer layer and avoiding the bitter white pith underneath.
- Cut the lemon in half and squeeze out fresh lemon juice, straining to remove any seeds.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine the fresh lemon juice and lemon zest.
- Drizzle high-quality extra virgin olive oil into the bowl, whisking continuously to create an emulsion.
- Add honey to the mixture, which will help balance the acidity and create a smooth consistency.
- Season with fine sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, adjusting to taste.
- Whisk all ingredients vigorously until the vinaigrette is well combined and slightly thickened.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, ensuring a perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and savory flavors.
- Transfer to a clean glass jar or container with a tight-fitting lid for storage.
- Refrigerate and use within 3-5 days for optimal freshness and flavor.
Tips
- Choose the Right Lemons: Opt for organic lemons if possible, as they are less likely to have pesticides on the skin, which is essential for zesting.
- Zesting Technique: Use a microplane or fine grater to zest the lemon. Be gentle and only take the bright yellow outer layer; the white pith underneath can impart a bitter taste.
- Quality Ingredients Matter: For the best flavor, use high-quality extra virgin olive oil and fresh honey. These ingredients will make a noticeable difference in the final taste of your vinaigrette.
- Whisking for Emulsion: When combining the olive oil with the lemon juice and zest, whisk vigorously to create a smooth emulsion. This will help the vinaigrette stay well mixed and prevent separation.
- Adjust to Your Taste: Don’t be afraid to tweak the seasoning! Taste as you go and adjust the salt, pepper, or honey to achieve your perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and savory.
- Storage Tips: Store your vinaigrette in a clean glass jar with a tight lid. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. Just give it a good shake before using!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 0g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
