Trader Joe’s Lemon Basil Vinaigrette is a delightful and tangy addition to your salads, grilled vegetables, or even as a marinade. This fresh and vibrant dressing brings the bright flavors of lemon and basil together, creating a perfect balance of zesty and aromatic.
Making your own version at home is easy, and with just a few simple ingredients, you can recreate this fan-favorite dressing. Let’s dive into the recipe and create a homemade vinaigrette that’s as delicious as it is fresh!
What Does Trader Joe’s Lemon Basil Vinaigrette Recipe Taste Like?
Trader Joe’s Lemon Basil Vinaigrette recipe has a fresh, zesty flavor with bright citrus notes from the lemon and aromatic herbal tones from the basil. You can combine and try this Vinaigrette, with Yellow Curry, Thai Red Curry or any Trader Joe’s Red Curry Sauce.
The garlic adds a subtle sharpness, while the olive oil lends a rich, silky texture. Its balanced tanginess and vibrant taste make it refreshing and versatile, perfect for salads, marinades, or grilled dishes.
Ingredients Required for Trader Joe’s Lemon Basil Vinaigrette Recipe
Here’s the list of Ingredients you’ll need to make this Trader Joe’s Style Lemon Basil Vinaigrette at home
- 2 cups fresh Italian basil (approx. 4 oz)
- 2 whole peeled garlic cloves
- ¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (or lime juice)
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 10-12 whole black peppercorns
- ½ teaspoon salt
Kitchen Utensil You’ll Need
- Blender or food processor
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Salad spinner (optional)
- Clean glass jar for storage
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
How to Make Trader Joe’s Lemon Basil Vinaigrette
Simply follow the steps given below to make your Copycat Trader Joe’s Lemon Basil Vinaigrette at home
Step 1: Prepare the Basil
Start by removing the basil leaves from the stems and discarding the stems. Measure out 2 cups of lightly packed basil leaves (approximately 4 oz). Rinse the leaves well under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. After rinsing, dry the basil leaves thoroughly using a salad spinner or by patting them gently with a clean towel.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
Once the basil is ready, add all the ingredients (basil leaves, garlic cloves, lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, black peppercorns, and salt) to the small jar of a blender or food processor. Blend for about 60 seconds, or until the basil and garlic are well incorporated with the liquid ingredients, creating a smooth and creamy dressing.
Note: If you’re using a large food processor or a Vitamix, you may need to double the recipe to ensure everything blends properly, as these machines work best with larger batches.
Step 3: Store the Dressing
Transfer the finished vinaigrette to a clean glass jar. Seal the jar and store it in the refrigerator for up to one week. If you’d like to store it longer, you can freeze the vinaigrette for up to 4 months. Be sure to mix the dressing well before each use, as it may separate over time.
Some Tasty Ways To Customize and pair This Lemon Basil Vinaigrette
1. Mixed Green Salad
Toss this tangy vinaigrette over a bed of mixed greens like arugula, spinach, and baby kale for a fresh, light salad. Add some sliced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and a sprinkle of feta for extra flavor.
2. Grilled Chicken
Drizzle the vinaigrette over grilled chicken breasts or thighs. The bright, citrusy flavors complement the savory, smoky taste of grilled meat beautifully.
3. Roasted Vegetables
Use this vinaigrette as a finishing touch for roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus. The acidity helps cut through the richness of roasted veggies.
4. Caprese Salad
Combine fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil for a classic Caprese salad, then drizzle with the Lemon Basil Vinaigrette for an extra layer of flavor.
5. Pasta Salad
Toss the vinaigrette with cold pasta, cherry tomatoes, olives, and a handful of fresh herbs for a refreshing pasta salad. It’s perfect for picnics or barbecues.
6. Grilled Fish
The fresh, citrusy dressing pairs wonderfully with delicate, grilled fish like salmon, trout, or tilapia. Use it to marinate the fish before grilling or as a topping afterward.
7. Quinoa or Farro Bowl
Drizzle the vinaigrette over a hearty grain bowl featuring quinoa or farro, roasted veggies, and some protein (like grilled chicken or chickpeas) for a wholesome meal.
8. Avocado Toast
Spread mashed avocado on toasted sourdough and drizzle with the Lemon Basil Vinaigrette for a fresh and flavorful twist on your morning toast.
9. Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Pair the vinaigrette with grilled shrimp skewers. The bright, herbaceous dressing complements the sweetness of the shrimp and adds a tangy contrast.
10. Sandwiches & Wraps
Use this vinaigrette as a spread on sandwiches or wraps. It works wonderfully on turkey, chicken, or vegetarian wraps, adding a zesty kick to every bite.
Some Tips on This Trader Joe’s Lemon Basil Vinaigrette Recipe
1. Use Fresh Basil
For the best flavor, always use fresh basil. Dried basil won’t give the same aromatic punch or vibrant green color, so be sure to pick up a fresh bunch from the store.
2. Adjust the Lemon for Your Taste
If you prefer a milder dressing, use lime juice instead of lemon juice. Lime offers a softer citrus flavor that pairs beautifully with basil.
3. Balance the Garlic
If you’re sensitive to raw garlic, start with one clove and taste the dressing before adding the second. This will allow you to adjust the garlic intensity to your preference.
4. Freshly Squeeze Your Lemon Juice
Freshly squeezed lemon juice is far superior in flavor to bottled juice. It has a brighter, more natural tang that elevates the dressing.
5. Use Extra Virgin Olive Oil
For the best flavor, always use extra virgin olive oil. It has a richer, more robust flavor compared to regular olive oil, enhancing the overall taste of your vinaigrette.
6. Grind Your Peppercorns
If possible, use freshly ground black peppercorns rather than pre-ground pepper. The fresh grind gives a more intense flavor that really shines in this vinaigrette.
7. Double the Recipe for Larger Batches
If you love this dressing, double the recipe and store it in a larger jar. This ensures you’ll have plenty on hand for multiple uses throughout the week.
8. Blend Well for Smoothness
Make sure you blend the dressing for a full 60 seconds to get a smooth, creamy consistency. If you’re using a larger blender, give it extra time to ensure all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated.
9. Add Dijon Mustard for Extra Kick
If you prefer a tangier, more robust dressing, add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard. It will give your vinaigrette an extra zing and a bit of creaminess.
10. Store Properly to Preserve Freshness
When storing the vinaigrette, cover it with a thin layer of olive oil before sealing the jar. This will help prevent oxidation and keep the vibrant green color intact for longer.
How to Store this Trader Joe’s Lemon Basil Vinaigrette?
Store your Lemon Basil Vinaigrette in an airtight glass jar in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
To preserve its vibrant color, cover it with a thin layer of olive oil. If you freeze it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Always stir well before use, as the ingredients may separate over time.
Trader Joe’s Lemon Basil Vinaigrette Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh Italian basil approx. 4 oz
- 2 whole peeled garlic cloves
- ¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice or lime juice
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 10-12 whole black peppercorns
- ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Start by removing the basil leaves from the stems and discarding the stems. Measure out 2 cups of lightly packed basil leaves (approximately 4 oz). Rinse the leaves well under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. After rinsing, dry the basil leaves thoroughly using a salad spinner or by patting them gently with a clean towel.
- Once the basil is ready, add all the ingredients (basil leaves, garlic cloves, lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, black peppercorns, and salt) to the small jar of a blender or food processor. Blend for about 60 seconds, or until the basil and garlic are well incorporated with the liquid ingredients, creating a smooth and creamy dressing.
- Note: If you’re using a large food processor or a Vitamix, you may need to double the recipe to ensure everything blends properly, as these machines work best with larger batches.
- Transfer the finished vinaigrette to a clean glass jar. Seal the jar and store it in the refrigerator for up to one week. If you’d like to store it longer, you can freeze the vinaigrette for up to 4 months. Be sure to mix the dressing well before each use, as it may separate over time.
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Notes
Common Queries on This Trader Joe’s Lemon Basil Vinaigrette Recipe
Here, we’ve got you covered with some common questions about the Trader Joe’s Lemon Basil Vinaigrette Recipe that people often ask.
1. How do you make lemon basil vinaigrette for Bubbas?
To make Lemon Basil Vinaigrette for Bubbas (or anyone), simply follow the recipe by blending fresh basil, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, peppercorns, and salt. The combination of fresh, vibrant basil with citrusy lemon will appeal to both kids and adults alike. If you want to make it more kid-friendly, reduce the amount of garlic and peppercorns for a milder taste.
2. What is lemon vinaigrette made of?
Lemon vinaigrette typically consists of lemon juice, olive oil, salt, pepper, and sometimes a bit of mustard or honey for added flavor. The tartness from the lemon and the richness of the olive oil create a simple but delicious dressing that can be used on salads, grilled vegetables, or even as a marinade.
3. What is basil vinaigrette made of?
Basil vinaigrette is made from fresh basil, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. The fresh basil gives the vinaigrette a herbal, aromatic flavor that pairs perfectly with the acidity of the lemon and the richness of the olive oil.
4. How long does lemon basil vinaigrette last?
Lemon Basil Vinaigrette can last up to 1 week when stored in the refrigerator. To maintain freshness and prevent oxidation, cover the dressing with a thin layer of olive oil before sealing the jar.
5. Can I freeze lemon basil vinaigrette?
Yes, you can freeze Lemon Basil Vinaigrette for up to 4 months. Make sure to store it in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn, and allow it to thaw in the refrigerator before use.
6. Can I make lemon basil vinaigrette without garlic?
Yes, you can make Lemon Basil Vinaigrette without garlic if you prefer a milder flavor or if you’re sensitive to garlic. It will still taste fresh and flavorful, but with a more straightforward basil and lemon profile.
7. How do I make my vinaigrette thinner?
If your vinaigrette is too thick for your liking, simply add a little water to thin it out. Start with a teaspoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
8. Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
Freshly squeezed lemon juice will give the vinaigrette the best flavor, but you can use bottled lemon juice in a pinch. Just be aware that the taste may not be as vibrant as with fresh lemons.
9. Can I make basil vinaigrette with dried basil?
It’s best to use fresh basil for this recipe to get the fullest flavor and vibrant green color. Dried basil won’t provide the same fresh, herbal taste, so we recommend sticking with fresh basil for the best result.
10. How can I adjust the flavor of the lemon basil vinaigrette?
You can adjust the flavor of the vinaigrette by adding more lemon juice for extra tanginess, more garlic for a stronger kick, or a spoonful of Dijon mustard for added depth. If you like it spicier, you can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes. Taste as you go to find the perfect balance for your palate!
These FAQs should help answer any common questions and offer tips for customizing and storing your Lemon Basil Vinaigrette.
This homemade Lemon Basil Vinaigrette is a perfect way to bring a burst of flavor to your meals. Whether you’re drizzling it over a fresh salad or using it as a marinade, it’s sure to become a go-to dressing in your kitchen! Enjoy!
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