Salad Dressing with Olive Oil and Lemon Recipe

Salad Dressing with Olive Oil and Lemon Recipe is a easy Mediterranean recipe that serves 4. 240 calories per serving. Recipe by KitchenDads on YouTube.

Prep: 7 min | Cook: PT0M | Total: 12 min

Cost: $5.36 total, $1.34 per serving

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup Lemon Juice (freshly squeezed from about 4 lemons)
  • 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
  • 2 teaspoons Dried Oregano (crush between fingers before adding)
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper (freshly ground)
  • 1/2 teaspoon Salt (to taste)
  • 1 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil (good quality, preferably cold‑pressed)

Instructions

  1. Extract Lemon Juice

    Roll the lemons on the counter, cut them in half and squeeze until you have 1/2 cup of fresh lemon juice.

    Time: PT2M

  2. Mince Garlic

    Peel 2 garlic cloves and mince them finely (or press through a garlic press).

    Time: PT1M

  3. Add Dried Oregano

    Place 2 teaspoons of dried oregano into the jar and crush it between your fingers before adding.

    Time: PT30S

  4. Season with Pepper and Salt

    Add 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper and 1/2 teaspoon salt to the jar.

    Time: PT30S

  5. Add Olive Oil

    Pour 1 cup of good‑quality extra virgin olive oil into the jar.

    Time: PT1M

  6. Emulsify the Dressing

    Secure the lid and shake the jar vigorously for about 1 minute until the mixture thickens and looks creamy.

    Time: PT1M

  7. Taste and Adjust

    Open the jar, taste the dressing and add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if desired.

    Time: PT30S

  8. Store or Serve

    Transfer the dressing to a clean container or keep it in the jar. Use immediately or refrigerate.

    Time: PT30S

Nutrition Facts

Calories
240
Protein
0g
Carbohydrates
2g
Fat
27g
Fiber
0g

Dietary info: Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Paleo-friendly

Allergens: Olive (fruit), Garlic (may cause intolerance for some)

Last updated: March 12, 2026

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Salad Dressing with Olive Oil and Lemon Recipe

Recipe by KitchenDads

A bright, tangy Mediterranean‑style dressing made with fresh lemon juice, garlic, oregano, black pepper and high‑quality extra‑virgin olive oil. Perfect for salads, as a dip, or as a quick marinade for chicken, shrimp, or vegetables.

EasyMediterraneanServes 4

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
5m
Prep
0m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
15m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$5.36
Total cost
$1.34
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for proper acidity.
  • Shake the jar until the oil and lemon juice emulsify into a creamy texture.

Safety Warnings

  • Be careful when handling the knife and squeezing lemons; the acid can irritate skin.
  • Do not ingest large amounts of raw garlic if you have a sensitive stomach.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of Lemon Garlic Olive Oil Dressing in Mediterranean cuisine?

A

Lemon, garlic, and olive oil are cornerstone flavors of the Mediterranean diet, dating back to ancient Greece and Italy where simple vinaigrettes were used to dress fresh vegetables and fish. This dressing reflects the region’s emphasis on bright acidity, healthy fats, and aromatic herbs.

cultural
Q

What traditional regional variations of Lemon Garlic Olive Oil Dressing exist across Mediterranean countries?

A

In Southern Italy, the dressing often includes capers and anchovies; in Greece, oregano may be swapped for fresh dill and a splash of red wine vinegar; in Spain, smoked paprika is added for depth. Each variation mirrors local herb and spice preferences.

cultural
Q

How is Lemon Garlic Olive Oil Dressing traditionally served in Mediterranean households?

A

It is typically drizzled over mixed greens, tossed with a simple tomato‑cucumber salad, or used to marinate grilled fish and chicken. It may also accompany fresh bread for dipping.

cultural
Q

During which celebrations or meals is Lemon Garlic Olive Oil Dressing commonly used in Mediterranean culture?

A

The dressing appears at everyday family meals, summer barbecues, and festive gatherings like Greek Easter feasts where fresh salads are a staple. Its bright flavor pairs well with holiday roasted lamb or grilled seafood.

cultural
Q

What authentic ingredients are essential for a true Lemon Garlic Olive Oil Dressing versus acceptable substitutes?

A

Authentic ingredients include freshly squeezed lemon juice, extra‑virgin olive oil, raw garlic, dried oregano, and freshly ground black pepper. Substitutes like bottled lemon juice or pre‑ground pepper work in a pinch but alter the fresh, vibrant profile.

cultural
Q

What other Mediterranean dishes pair well with Lemon Garlic Olive Oil Dressing?

A

It pairs beautifully with Greek salad, Italian arugula with shaved Parmesan, grilled shrimp skewers, roasted chicken thighs, and even as a finishing drizzle for hummus or roasted vegetables.

cultural
Q

What makes Lemon Garlic Olive Oil Dressing special or unique within Mediterranean cuisine?

A

The simplicity of just three core ingredients—lemon, garlic, and olive oil—creates a balanced emulsion that highlights each component’s brightness and richness without overwhelming the palate, embodying the Mediterranean principle of letting high‑quality ingredients shine.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Lemon Garlic Olive Oil Dressing?

A

Common errors include using bottled lemon juice (which lacks fresh acidity), adding oil too quickly without shaking, and using pre‑ground pepper that can taste stale. Also, over‑salting can mask the lemon’s freshness.

technical
Q

Why does this Lemon Garlic Olive Oil Dressing recipe use shaking in a jar instead of whisking in a bowl?

A

Shaking creates a vigorous, enclosed agitation that quickly emulsifies the oil and acid, reducing cleanup. It also prevents splatter and ensures the ingredients stay together, which is especially helpful for a thin vinaigrette.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel KitchenDads specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel KitchenDads focuses on straightforward, family‑friendly recipes and cooking hacks that emphasize fresh, everyday ingredients. Their style is casual, instructional, and geared toward home cooks who want quick, reliable results.

channel

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