Are you looking for delicious and healthy salad dressings that won't derail your Weight Watchers journey? Look no further! This zesty lemon herb vinaigrette is not only incredibly flavorful but also light, refreshing, and surprisingly low in points. It's the perfect way to elevate your favorite salads and make healthy eating a joy, not a chore. This recipe is perfect for those seeking easy recipes, healthy meals, and quick dinner ideas – all while sticking to your weight loss goals. Homemade cooking has never been easier or more satisfying!
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 1 large lemon)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
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Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper until well combined and emulsified. A whisk works best for achieving a smooth consistency.
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Adjust Seasoning: Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning to your preference. You might want to add a bit more lemon juice for extra tang, or a pinch more salt and pepper for a bolder flavor.
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Chill (Optional): For the best flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate the dressing for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and deepen.
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Serve: Drizzle the vinaigrette over your favorite salad greens and enjoy! The optional fresh parsley adds a beautiful pop of color and extra freshness.
Cooking Tips for the Best Vinaigrette:
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Use Fresh Herbs: If possible, use fresh herbs instead of dried ones for a brighter, more vibrant flavor. The ratio of fresh herbs would be approximately 3 times the amount listed for dried herbs.
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Emulsification is Key: Make sure to whisk the ingredients vigorously to properly emulsify the oil and vinegar, creating a smooth and creamy dressing.
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Adjust to Your Taste: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize this recipe to your liking. A little thyme, rosemary, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a delicious twist.
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Storage: Store leftover vinaigrette in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Variations:
- Honey-Lemon Vinaigrette: Add 1 teaspoon of honey for a touch of sweetness.
- Garlic-Herb Vinaigrette: Increase the amount of garlic to 2 cloves for a more intense garlic flavor.
- Balsamic Vinaigrette: Substitute 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar for some of the lemon juice.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 100
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 1g
Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
This zesty lemon herb vinaigrette is a perfect addition to your collection of healthy and delicious recipes. It's a simple way to boost the flavor of your salads while staying on track with your Weight Watchers goals. Enjoy this easy and healthy homemade dressing! It's a great recipe for beginners and experienced cooks alike, making healthy eating accessible to everyone. This recipe makes a great base for many other quick dinner ideas! Try it today and discover a new favorite dressing!