Lemon DIll Vinaigrette
Lemon DIll Vinaigrette is a easy Mediterranean recipe that serves 4. 378 calories per serving. Recipe by Chef Capon on YouTube.
Prep: 10 min | Cook: PT0M | Total: 15 min
Cost: $1.69 total, $0.42 per serving
Ingredients
- 0.75 cup Greek Extra Virgin Olive Oil (high quality, cold‑pressed)
- 0.25 cup Fresh Lemon Juice (juice of about 2 lemons)
- 2 clove Garlic (shaved or thinly sliced)
- 1 tablespoon Fresh Dill (finely chopped)
- 0.5 teaspoon Kosher Salt (or to taste)
- 0.25 teaspoon Fresh Ground Black Pepper (or to taste, freshly ground)
Instructions
Prepare Ingredients
Finely chop the fresh dill, shave the garlic cloves into thin ribbons, and juice the lemons until you have 1/4 cup of fresh lemon juice.
Time: PT5M
Combine Base Ingredients
In a mixing bowl or a mason jar, add the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, shaved garlic, and chopped dill.
Time: PT2M
Season and Emulsify
Add kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, then whisk (or shake) vigorously until the dressing is well combined and slightly thickened.
Time: PT1M
Final Taste Check
Give the vinaigrette a quick taste; if it’s too sharp, add a splash more olive oil, if too oily, add a few more drops of lemon juice.
Time: PT1M
Store or Serve
Serve immediately over your favorite salad or transfer to a sealed container and refrigerate for up to 5 days. Shake before each use.
Time: PT0M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 378
- Protein
- 0g
- Carbohydrates
- 2g
- Fat
- 42g
- Fiber
- 0g
Dietary info: Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Paleo-Friendly
Allergens: None
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Greek Extra Virgin Olive Oil: regular extra virgin olive oil, avocado oil
- Instead of Fresh Lemon Juice: bottled lemon juice
- Instead of Garlic: garlic powder (1/4 tsp)
- Instead of Fresh Dill: dried dill (1 tsp)
- Instead of Kosher Salt: sea salt
- Instead of Fresh Ground Black Pepper: pre‑ground black pepper
Equipment Needed
- Measuring Cup
- Measuring Spoon
- Knife
- Cutting Board
- Mixing Bowl or Jar with Lid
- Whisk or Fork
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Finely chopping the dill to release its flavor.
- Emulsifying the oil and lemon juice by whisking or shaking vigorously.
Chef Tips from the Video
- Warm the lemon juice slightly (room temperature) before mixing for a smoother emulsion.
- A mason jar with a tight‑fitting lid makes shaking the vinaigrette effortless.
Troubleshooting
The dressing separates after sitting.
Whisk or shake vigorously again; adding a pinch of mustard can help stabilize the emulsion.
Too acidic or sharp.
Add an extra tablespoon of olive oil and taste again.
Too thick or oily.
Stir in a few drops of water or additional lemon juice to balance.
Storage
Refrigerator: Seal in an airtight container and keep for up to 5 days.
Freezer: Not recommended; freezing can change texture.
Room temperature: Can sit at room temperature for up to 2 hours while serving.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Make the vinaigrette a day ahead; the flavors meld and improve.
- Store in a small mason jar; just give it a good shake before using.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of lemon dill vinaigrette in Mediterranean cuisine?
Lemon dill vinaigrette reflects the Mediterranean love of bright citrus, fresh herbs, and high‑quality olive oil. The combination of lemon and dill is traditional in Greek and Turkish salads, providing a light, aromatic dressing that highlights seasonal vegetables.
What are the traditional regional variations of dill‑based vinaigrette in Greek versus Turkish cooking?
In Greek cuisine, dill vinaigrette often includes oregano and a splash of red wine vinegar, while Turkish versions may add sumac or pomegranate molasses for a tangier profile. Both rely on fresh dill and olive oil as the base.
How is lemon dill vinaigrette traditionally served in Mediterranean households?
It is commonly drizzled over mixed green salads, cucumber‑tomato salads, or used as a light sauce for grilled fish and roasted vegetables. It may also accompany mezze platters as a dipping sauce for bread.
During which celebrations or meals is lemon dill vinaigrette typically used in Greek culture?
The dressing appears at family gatherings, summer picnics, and festive meals such as Easter brunches, where fresh herbs and citrus symbolize renewal and abundance.
What other Mediterranean dishes pair well with lemon dill vinaigrette?
It pairs beautifully with Greek village salad (horiatiki), grilled halloumi, roasted eggplant, and even as a finishing drizzle for lentil soups or quinoa bowls.
What makes lemon dill vinaigrette special compared to other vinaigrettes in Mediterranean cuisine?
The use of fresh dill gives a distinctive anise‑like aroma, while the lemon provides a sharp, clean acidity that balances the richness of extra‑virgin olive oil, creating a uniquely refreshing flavor profile.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making lemon dill vinaigrette?
Common errors include using cold lemon juice (which hinders emulsification), over‑chopping the dill (making it bitter), and adding too much salt before tasting. Always whisk or shake vigorously and adjust seasoning at the end.
Why does this lemon dill vinaigrette recipe use fresh lemon juice instead of vinegar?
Fresh lemon juice offers a brighter, more fragrant acidity that complements dill’s herbaceous notes, whereas vinegar would add a sharper, less nuanced tang that can overpower the delicate flavors.
Can I make lemon dill vinaigrette ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes, you can prepare it up to five days in advance. Store it in a sealed glass jar in the refrigerator and give it a good shake before each use to re‑emulsify.
What does the YouTube channel Chef Capon specialize in?
The YouTube channel Chef Capon focuses on simple, home‑cooked recipes that emphasize fresh ingredients, classic techniques, and quick preparation, often highlighting Mediterranean and comfort‑food dishes.
How does the YouTube channel Chef Capon's approach to Mediterranean cooking differ from other cooking channels?
Chef Capon prioritizes minimal equipment, clear step‑by‑step narration, and a focus on flavor balance using pantry‑friendly ingredients, whereas many other channels may rely on elaborate gadgets or exotic components.
Last updated: August 30, 2026
![Yogurt Dill Sauce [RECIPE]](https://img.youtube.com/vi/6C71NUhqgHA/hqdefault.jpg)