Easy & Healthy Salad Dressing Recipes To Make At Home

Creating your own salad dressing at home is one of the easiest ways to upgrade your meals and take control of what goes into your body. Store-bought dressings are often packed with preservatives, added sugars, and unhealthy fats, but making your own is not only healthier—it’s also quick, customizable, and cost-effective. Whether you’re looking to enhance leafy greens, roasted vegetables, or grain bowls, homemade dressings can elevate flavor and nutrition effortlessly.

This collection of salad dressing recipes starts with a classic: Lemon Garlic Vinaigrette. It’s zesty, light, and requires just a handful of pantry staples. Perfect for meal prep, this dressing keeps well in the fridge and pairs beautifully with everything from spinach to quinoa. Ideal for beginners and busy home cooks, this recipe proves that healthy eating doesn’t have to be bland or complicated. Let’s dive in!

Easy & Healthy Salad Dressing Recipes To Make At Home

This quick and healthy vinaigrette takes just 5 minutes to make and adds a burst of fresh flavor to your greens.

Author: Ganesh

Print Recipe

Prep Time 5 mins Total Time 5 mins Difficulty: Beginner Servings: 4 Estimated Cost: $ 1.50 Calories: 120 kcal (per serving) Best Season: All year

Ingredient

Servings

• 4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil – high-quality preferred
• 2 tbsp 2 freshly squeezed lemon juice – about 1 medium lemon
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard – adds creaminess and tang
• 1 clove garlic – finely minced
• 1 tsp maple syrup or honey – optional, for slight sweetness
• ¹⁄₄ tsp sea salt – adjust to taste
• ¹⁄₄ tsp black pepper – freshly ground

Instructions

1. Prepare the Garlic

   Finely mince the garlic or use a garlic press for smoother texture.

   Crushing garlic releases more flavor.

1. Mix the Base Ingredients

   In a small bowl or jar, add olive oil, lemon juice, mustard, and maple syrup (if using).

1. Add Garlic and Seasonings

   Stir in minced garlic, salt, and pepper.

1. Shake or Whisk

   Whisk everything until emulsified or shake well in a sealed jar.

   A mason jar is perfect for mixing and storing.

1. Taste and Adjust

   Taste and adjust salt, lemon, or sweetness to your liking.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4

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Amount Per Serving

Calories 120kcal

% Daily Value *

Total Fat 13g20%

Saturated Fat 2g10%

Sodium 150mg7%

Total Carbohydrate 1.5g1%

Sugars 0.5g

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Vitamin C 3.5 mg

Iron 0.2 mg

Vitamin E 1.8 IU

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Serving Suggestions:

• Pairs well with mixed greens, grain bowls, roasted vegetables, or as a marinade for grilled chicken.

Variations:

• Add fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a herby twist.
• Use balsamic or apple cider vinegar instead of lemon for a flavor variation.

Pro Tips:

• Double the recipe and store in the fridge for up to 7 days.
• Shake before each use as natural separation may occur.

Keywords: lemon vinaigrette, healthy salad dressing, easy homemade dressing, garlic dressing, vegan salad dressing