Vinagrete De Limao, or Lemon Vinaigrette, is a versatile and vibrant dressing that adds a wonderful zing to salads, grilled meats, or roasted vegetables. This Brazilian-inspired recipe combines the freshness of lemon with a touch of sweetness and a hint of tanginess to create a flavorful dressing that is simple to make and elevates any dish it accompanies. Whether you’re looking to brighten up your green salad or enhance the flavor of your favorite grilled chicken, this Lemon Vinaigrette is sure to become a go-to in your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients:
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together the freshly squeezed lemon juice, extra-virgin olive oil, honey, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Whisk until the ingredients are well combined and the dressing has emulsified.
2. Taste the vinaigrette and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or honey to suit your taste preferences. Remember that the flavors will develop further as the dressing sits, so keep this in mind when adjusting the seasoning.
3. Once you are satisfied with the flavor balance, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the vinaigrette to a glass container with a lid. Allow the dressing to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
4. Just before serving, give the vinaigrette a good whisk or shake to re-emulsify it, as the ingredients may separate slightly as it sits. This step ensures that your Lemon Vinaigrette is nicely mixed and ready to be drizzled over your favorite dishes.
5. Drizzle the Vinagrete De Limao over a crisp green salad, grilled vegetables, or use it as a marinade for chicken or fish. The bright acidity of the lemon juice, paired with the depth of flavor from the garlic and honey, will bring a delightful complexity to your meal.
6. For an extra touch of freshness and color, sprinkle the Lemon Vinaigrette with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro just before serving. These garnishes not only add a pop of bright flavor but also enhance the visual appeal of your dish.
7. Store any leftover Vinagrete De Limao in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Before using, give it a good shake or whisk to recombine the ingredients and refresh the flavors.
Vinagrete De Limao, with its zesty and balanced profile, is a fantastic addition to your culinary repertoire. This simple yet flavorful Lemon Vinaigrette will elevate your dishes with its bright and tangy notes, making every bite a refreshing experience. Enjoy the versatility of this Brazilian-inspired dressing and let it become a staple in your kitchen for enhancing the flavors of your favorite recipes.
