Most salad dressings have too many ingredients and not enough personality in my not so humble opinion. This one has six and none of them are “weird”: mustard, lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper. Whisk them together. Done. It takes less time than reading most dressing recipes.
The lemon zest is what makes it taste like spring. Finely grated zest from one whole lemon, mixed with half a cup of lemon juice, gives the dressing a brightness that vinegar cannot match. Easy, quick, fresh and delicious. That’s just want I want from a spring dressing!
Tips for Making Spring Salad Dressing
Whisk the mustard and lemon first
Two tablespoons of mustard whisked with the lemon juice and zest before the oil goes in. The mustard emulsifies the dressing and keeps it from separating. 
Add the olive oil in a slow stream while whisking. The dressing should thicken slightly and look creamy, not oily.
Use good olive oil
Half a cup of olive oil is the majority of this dressing by volume. Use one you like the taste of. Cheap, bitter olive oil makes a bitter dressing.
Extra virgin is best here because you are not cooking it. The raw flavour comes through clearly. Buy the most expensive one you can afford, it will elevate the dressing so much – trust me on this one.
Spring Salad Dressing
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Description
A vibrant, versatile dressing perfect for spring salads.
Bright citrus and honey notes complement any greens.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp mustard
- 1/2 cups (120 ml) lemon juice
- finely grated zest of 1 lemon
- 1/2 cups (120 ml) olive oil
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
Instructions
- Whisk or blend all ingredients together and serve over your favorite salad.
Notes
- For a smoother dressing, use an immersion blender or high-speed blender.
- To adjust sweetness, add more or less honey to taste.
- Store leftover dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 mins
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tbsp
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 5
- Sodium: 100
- Fat: 10
- Saturated Fat: 1
- Unsaturated Fat: 8
- Carbohydrates: 5
- Fiber: 1
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does this dressing keep?
Up to a week in an airtight container in the fridge. It may separate. Shake or whisk before using.
Can I use a blender instead of whisking?
Yes. A blender or immersion blender makes a thicker, more emulsified dressing. Both are correct. Whisking gives a looser texture.
What salads does this go on?
Any spring or summer salad with greens, herbs, and vegetables. It is too bright for heavy, creamy salads. Best on simple greens, grilled vegetables, or grain salads.
six ingredients, lemon ZEST, done. PERFECT dressing.