Lebanese Salad Dressing with Lemon and Garlic

If you’re craving a fresh, tangy, and vibrant addition to your salads, you’ll adore this Lebanese Salad Dressing with Lemon and Garlic. This dressing perfectly balances zesty lemon, robust garlic, and rich olive oil to create a sauce that brightens any bowl of greens or roasted veggies. It’s an easy-to-make, wholesome recipe that captures the essence of Lebanese flavors, adding a fresh twist that makes every bite pop with flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh and Zesty Flavor: The lemon juice provides a lively brightness that awakens your taste buds in every bite.
• Simple Ingredients: Made from pantry staples like garlic, lemon, and olive oil, it’s easy to prepare anytime.
• Versatile Use: Whether drizzled over salads, grilled veggies, or even grilled meats, this dressing enhances a variety of dishes.
• Healthy Boost: Olive oil and lemon juice offer antioxidants and heart-healthy fats, making this both tasty and nutritious.
• Quick Preparation: Ready in minutes, this dressing is perfect for busy days when you want fresh flavors without fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Lebanese Salad Dressing with Lemon and Garlic relies on a handful of simple but essential ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in creating a balanced, flavorful dressing that complements your salads without overpowering them.

• Fresh Lemon Juice: Adds that classic tart and bright note that is central to this dressing’s refreshing taste.
• Garlic Cloves: Provides a punch of earthy, savory flavor that pairs beautifully with lemon’s acidity.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Offers a smooth, fruity richness that helps mellow and tie all the flavors together.
• Salt: Enhances and balances the overall flavor, bringing out the natural taste of all ingredients.
• Ground Black Pepper: Adds mild warmth and depth to give the dressing a rounded finish.
• Optional Fresh Herbs (Parsley or Mint): Adds fresh, herbal notes that brighten the dressing further while boosting its color.

Variations for Lebanese Salad Dressing with Lemon and Garlic

Feel free to customize this Lebanese Salad Dressing with Lemon and Garlic to suit your personal taste or dietary preferences. These variations make it easy to experiment and keep the recipe exciting based on what you have on hand.

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for heat and extra boldness.
• Honey Sweetness: Drizzle in a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup to balance out the lemon’s tartness.
• Sumac Addition: Sprinkle sumac powder for an authentic Middle Eastern tangy flavor and beautiful deep red color.
• Vegan Twist: Use a splash of apple cider vinegar in place of lemon if you want a slightly different acidity.
• Nutty Texture: Stir in a tablespoon of tahini for a creamy, nutty element that adds richness.

How to Make Lebanese Salad Dressing with Lemon and Garlic

Step 1: Prepare the Garlic

Start by peeling and finely mincing or crushing the garlic cloves to release their full aromatic flavor. If you prefer a milder garlic taste, you can lightly sauté the garlic in olive oil first.

Step 2: Juice the Lemons

Freshly squeeze the lemons to extract the juice, ensuring no seeds get into the dressing. Fresh lemon juice is vital for that bright, zesty kick that defines this dressing.

Step 3: Whisk Ingredients Together

In a small bowl, combine fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil while whisking continuously to emulsify the mixture and create a smooth, well-blended dressing.

Step 4: Add Fresh Herbs (Optional)

If desired, finely chop fresh parsley or mint and stir them into the dressing for a flavorful burst of greenery and extra freshness.

Step 5: Taste and Adjust

Give the dressing a taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, lemon juice, or pepper if needed. This step ensures every batch suits your palate perfectly.

Pro Tips for Making Lebanese Salad Dressing with Lemon and Garlic

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh lemon juice rather than bottled for that authentic, bright flavor.
• Emulsify Properly: Slowly whisk in olive oil to create a creamy, cohesive dressing instead of a separated mixture.
• Balance Flavors: Adjust salt and lemon juice gradually to avoid overpowering the garlic, maintaining a harmonious blend.
• Store in Airtight Container: Keep unused dressing chilled in a sealed jar to maintain freshness for up to a week.
• Customize Texture: For a smoother dressing, blend all ingredients in a food processor or blender.

How to Serve Lebanese Salad Dressing with Lemon and Garlic

Garnishes

Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or mint over salads dressed with this Lebanese Salad Dressing with Lemon and Garlic for that extra pop of color and flavor. Toasted pine nuts or crushed walnuts add a delightful crunch and nutty finish.

Side Dishes

This dressing beautifully complements traditional Mediterranean sides like tabbouleh, fattoush, or grilled vegetables. It’s also fantastic drizzled over roasted potatoes or served alongside grilled chicken for an easy and flavorful meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Try tossing it with mixed greens and colorful vegetables for a vibrant salad bowl, or use it as a marinade for seafood before grilling to infuse those bright lemony and garlicky flavors. You can even dollop it over grain bowls or steamed couscous to lift the dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer leftover dressing into a clean airtight container and refrigerate. It should stay fresh for up to 5 to 7 days. Always give it a quick stir or shake before using, as the ingredients may naturally separate.

Freezing

Freezing is not recommended for this dressing because lemon juice and olive oil can separate and change texture when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.

Reheating

This dressing is served cold or at room temperature, so no reheating is necessary. Simply bring it out of the fridge a few minutes before serving to soften the olive oil if it solidifies.

FAQs

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

While bottled lemon juice can work in a pinch, fresh lemon juice gives a brighter, more vibrant flavor that is key to this dressing.

How long does Lebanese Salad Dressing with Lemon and Garlic last?

If stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator, the dressing will stay fresh for about 5 to 7 days.

Can I make this dressing vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally vegan as it contains no animal products.

What salads pair best with this dressing?

This dressing pairs wonderfully with simple green salads, fattoush, tabbouleh, or even roasted vegetable salads.

Can I use roasted garlic instead of raw?

Yes, roasted garlic will offer a sweeter and more mellow flavor, providing a delicious twist to the classic recipe.

Final Thoughts

This Lebanese Salad Dressing with Lemon and Garlic is such a fantastic, simple way to elevate your salads and dishes with bright, fresh flavors. Whether you stick to the classic version or try one of the many easy variations, this recipe is sure to become your go-to for a quick burst of Middle Eastern-inspired zest. Give it a whirl, and enjoy the deliciousness it brings to your table!

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