Homemade Creamy Lemon Salad Dressing

This creamy salad dressing recipe is made with simple ingredients like olive oil, lemon juice, red onion, and Dijon mustard—fresh, healthy, and ready in 5 minutes. It’s my go-to dressing when I want something bright, rich, and effortlessly delicious for everyday salads or entertaining.

Table of Contents

• Why I Love This Creamy Salad Dressing Recipe
• Ingredients You’ll Need
• Substitutions & Variations
• Directions
• How to Store & Make Ahead
• Other Salad Dressing Recipes You’ll Love
• Final Thoughts
• Connect With Me

Spring is finally making its way here, and it has me feeling energized in the kitchen again. I’ve been leaning into seasonal produce, creating fresh and flavorful meals that feel light but still satisfying. And one of the easiest ways I elevate my meals? Homemade dressings. I’ve collected a lot of condiments and oils over the years, but nothing beats grabbing a few pantry staples and making something from scratch.

This creamy salad dressing has become a regular in my fridge—especially for pairing with spring greens, shaved carrots, and crisp radishes. It’s citrusy, velvety, and subtly sweet, with the perfect balance of tang from the Dijon and lemon. And the best part? It comes together in less than five minutes using ingredients I always have on hand.

Why I Love This Creamy Salad Dressing Recipe

I’ve always believed that a great salad starts with a great dressing—and once I started making my own at home years ago, I never looked back. Not only is homemade salad dressing healthier and more cost-effective than store-bought, but the freshness is incomparable. This dressing is perfectly creamy without any mayo, thanks to the emulsion created by olive oil, mustard, and a touch of lemon juice. It’s the kind of dressing that makes even a basic garden salad feel special.

And as we head into spring and summer, I’m craving all things bright and vibrant. This dressing is one I’ve been reaching for constantly. I love whipping up a batch on Sundays and keeping it in the fridge all week. Whether it’s a backyard lunch or a fresh dinner side salad, this easy creamy salad dressing just works perfectly!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what goes into this creamy salad dressing:

• ½ cup olive oil – Use extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
• ½ red onion, diced – Adds a sweet, pungent kick and depth of flavor.
• 1 garlic clove – Fresh garlic makes all the difference—don’t skip it.
• 1 tbsp lemon juice – Brightens everything up.
• 1 tsp lemon zest – Enhances the citrus flavor and aroma.
• 1 tbsp creamy Dijon mustard – Acts as an emulsifier and adds creaminess.
• 1 tbsp maple syrup – Just enough sweetness to balance the acidity.
• Salt and pepper, to taste – A must to round out the flavors.

Tip: Taste your olive oil before using—some can be quite peppery or bitter. When it comes to salad dressings or vinaigrette’s, choose one that’s smooth and well-balanced for the best dressing base.

Substitutions & Variations

• No maple syrup? Use honey or agave instead.
• Don’t have red onion? Try shallot for a milder flavor.
• Want it creamier? Add a tablespoon of Greek yogurt or sour cream.
• Vegan version: This recipe is already dairy-free and naturally vegan—just make sure your Dijon mustard and sweetener are vegan-friendly.
• Add herbs: Fresh dill, parsley, or basil are delicious here too.

Directions

1. In a mason jar or large measuring cup, add all the ingredients.
2. Use an immersion blender to blend everything until smooth and creamy. You can also use a regular blender or food processor.
3. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or sweetness as needed.
4. Pour over your favorite salad and enjoy immediately!

How to Store & Make Ahead

Store your creamy salad dressing in a sealed mason jar or glass container in the fridge. It keeps well for up to 5 days. Since it’s oil-based, it may thicken in the fridge—just let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes and give it a shake or stir before using.

Other Salad Dressing Recipes You’ll Love

• Healthy Caesar Salad Dressing (without Anchovies)
• The Best Feta Salad Dressing
• Summer Herb Salad Dressing
• Creamy Honey Lime Salad Dressing
• Easy Lemon Basil Vinaigrette
• Healthy Homemade Ranch Dressing

Final Thoughts

This homemade creamy salad dressing is a staple I always come back to. It’s fresh, flavorful, and ridiculously easy to make. Whether you’re tossing it with mixed greens, spooning it over grain bowls, or drizzling it on roasted veggies, it adds a burst of brightness to whatever you’re serving.

And if you’re like me—someone who loves cooking with intention, but also craves simplicity—this is the kind of recipe you’ll keep in your back pocket again and again.

Connect With Me

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