Trader Joe’s Lemon Basil Vinaigrette Recipe

Every morning at breakfast, my family and I sit down with a loaf of crusty bread, and there’s always one thing on our table—lemon basil vinaigrette. Trader Joe’s Lemon Basil Vinaigrette recipe is a favorite in our home, but I’ve started making a homemade version that’s even better (if I do say so myself).

With fresh basil growing in our garden, I couldn’t resist creating this simple and delicious vinaigrette. It’s so easy to whip up and brings a zesty, herby punch to just about anything!

What Does Lemon Basil Vinaigrette Taste Like?

This vinaigrette has a bright, fresh taste that makes your mouth happy! The basil gives it a sweet, peppery flavor, while the lemon adds a nice zing. The red onion and garlic create a savory base, and the olive oil brings everything together with a smooth, rich finish.

When you try it, you’ll notice it’s not too heavy or too light – it’s just right.

What Is in Trader Joe’s Lemon Basil Vinaigrette?

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this flavorful vinaigrette:

• 3 cups Fresh Basil (roughly packed)
• 1/4 Red Onion (about 1/4 cup)
• 2-3 Garlic Cloves (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 cup Olive Oil
• 2 tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar
• 2 tbsp Fresh Lemon Juice
• Salt and Pepper (to taste)
• 1/2 tsp Red Pepper Flakes (optional for a little kick)

Recipe Substitutions

Need to switch things up? Here are some easy substitutions:

• Olive Oil: Use avocado oil for a milder, nutty flavor or a healthier fat alternative.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Swap it with white wine vinegar for a lighter tang or balsamic vinegar for a slightly sweet twist.
• Fresh Lemon Juice: Bottled lemon juice works in a pinch, but fresh gives the best zesty flavor.
• Garlic Cloves: Substitute with garlic powder if fresh garlic isn’t available.

Kitchen Tools Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this dressing:

1. Blender or Food Processor: For blending everything into a smooth consistency.
2. Measuring Spoons: To get the proportions just right.
3. Knife and Cutting Board: For chopping the basil, onion, and garlic.
4. Small Bowl: Optional, for mixing or stirring.

How to Make Trader Joe’s Lemon Basil Vinaigrette

Follow these simple steps to make your homemade lemon basil vinaigrette:

Step 1 | Add The Ingredients

Add all the ingredients to your blender or food processor – the basil, red onion, garlic, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (optional).

Step 2 | Blend

Blend on high speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Step 3 | Adjust Consistency

If the mixture is too thick, add a little more olive oil and blend again.

Step 4 | Taste and Adjust

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes to your preference.

Step 5 | Serve

Now your homemade version Trader Joe’s Lemon Basil Vinaigrette Copycat recipe is ready to serve. Pour your fresh lemon basil vinaigrette into a jar or bottle and enjoy!

Recipe Notes

Here are a few tips to make your vinaigrette even better:

• Blending Tip: For an ultra-smooth vinaigrette, blend the ingredients for a bit longer, ensuring no large basil pieces remain.
• Custom Spice Level: Red pepper flakes are optional but add a subtle heat that complements the tanginess perfectly.
• Chilling: Let the vinaigrette chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
• Consistency: For a thinner dressing, you can add a splash of water or extra olive oil while blending.

How Can You Use This Vinaigrette?

This versatile dressing works great on:

1. Green Salads: Toss it with your favorite greens for a simple, refreshing salad.
2. Grain Bowls: Drizzle over quinoa, farro, or rice bowls to add a burst of zesty flavor.
3. Pasta Salads: Mix it into cold pasta salads for a vibrant, herbaceous dressing.
4. Grilled Vegetables: Use it as a finishing touch on grilled zucchini, asparagus, or eggplant.
5. Sandwich Spread: Spread a thin layer on sandwiches or wraps for a tangy twist.
6. Marinade for Chicken: Marinate chicken breasts or thighs before grilling or baking to infuse them with flavor.
7. Dip for Bread: Serve as a dip for crusty bread or breadsticks, perfect as an appetizer.

Storage and Freezing Tips

Keep your lemon basil vinaigrette fresh with these storage tips:

Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 7 days. Shake well before using, as separation is natural.

Freezing: Pour the vinaigrette into an ice cube tray and freeze. Pop out a cube as needed and thaw in the fridge or at room temperature.

Trader Joe’s Lemon Basil Vinaigrette Recipe FAQs

1. Can I make this vinaigrette less garlicky?

Yes! Start with one garlic clove instead of two or three. You can also roast the garlic first for a milder, sweeter flavor. Another option is to use garlic powder, starting with 1/4 teaspoon and adding more to taste.

2. Why did my vinaigrette turn brown?

The brown color happens when basil leaves oxidize after cutting. To keep the bright green color longer, blanch the basil leaves in boiling water for 10 seconds, then immediately place in ice water before using. Also, adding a bit of extra lemon juice helps maintain the color.

3. Can I make this vinaigrette without a blender?

Yes! Finely chop the basil, garlic, and onion by hand, then whisk together with the other ingredients. The texture will be more rustic but still tasty. A mortar and pestle works great for crushing the herbs and garlic.

4. Why is my vinaigrette too thick?

If your dressing seems too thick, slowly add more olive oil, one tablespoon at a time, while blending until you reach your desired consistency. Remember that it will thicken slightly when chilled.

5. Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?

Fresh basil is best for this recipe. Dried basil won’t give you the same bright flavor or creamy texture. If you must use dried, start with 2 tablespoons and adjust to taste, but know the result will be quite different from the original.

6. How can I make this vinaigrette spicier?

Add more red pepper flakes to increase the heat. Start with an extra 1/4 teaspoon and adjust to taste. You could also add a small fresh chili pepper or a pinch of cayenne pepper while blending.

7. What’s the best olive oil to use?

Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best results. Look for one with a mild, fruity flavor that won’t overpower the basil and lemon. Avoid light olive oils as they lack the richness needed for this dressing.

8. Can I double this recipe?

Yes! This recipe doubles easily. Just make sure your blender is big enough to handle the increased amount of ingredients. Double all ingredients exactly, then adjust seasonings to taste.

Conclusion

I hope you’ll try this Trader Joe’s lemon basil vinaigrette recipe in your kitchen! It’s amazing how a few simple ingredients can create such a flavorful dressing. The fresh basil and zesty lemon make this vinaigrette special – it brightens up any dish it touches.

Give it a try and let me know how it turns out! Don’t forget to share your cooking experience in the comments below, and follow us on Pinterest for more amazing recipes!