Make Lemony Salad Dressing Even Better With One Simple Trick

During the warm months of spring and summer, there aren't many better options for lunch than a fresh salad. With the vibrant colors of each fruit and vegetable plus the refreshing lightness of every other wholesome ingredient–it's a great energizer in the face of the hot sun. Plus, contrary to popular belief, your salad doesn't have to be boring. There are many ways to spruce up the summer favorite.

For example, let's talk dressing. While there are millions of options for salad dressings, lemon-based options are especially desirable. They have that refreshing zing alongside many health benefits like supporting a healthy heart and even preventing certain cancers. Lemon dressings are great on their own, but one simple trick can make lemon-based salad dressings taste even better. Try searing your lemons. While some people might think popping lemons on a pan is unusual in this context, it actually has many benefits and introduces a refreshingly complex taste.

If you're tired of the same old lemon dressing, searing your lemons could be your saving grace. Bringing heat to the tart fruit helps release hidden juices so its unique flavors can be expressed better in your dressing. The heat also helps dampen those intense acidity levels and the fruit becomes caramelized and sweet. Not to mention, it'll make your kitchen smell really nice. 

Start by slicing your lemon into even slices. Then, sear those slices on both sides using a hot pan. Once the lemons have browned slightly, remove them from heat and pick out any seeds. Now dice the seared slices up finely until it starts to form a paste. Next, mix the lemon paste with the dressing additives of your choice, from honey to habanero peppers, and boom. You've just elevated your dressing. 

Opting to sear the lemons for your salad dressing instead of simply squeezing out the juice helps pack in more of that lemon flavor, and cuts down on food waste. Plus, you don't just need to reserve this trick for your dressings–it can also act as a great topping for grilled salmon or vegetables like asparagus. 

While there are many different dressings you can incorporate seared lemon into, let's talk about some of the most basic options it'll work great in. Let's start with a lemon vinaigrette. For this dressing, you don't need many ingredients. The beauty is in its simplicity. To start, you'll need your seared lemon, of course. Then, mix in some minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste and voila. Some other ways you could elevate this dressing alongside the seared lemon while remaining true to the simple recipe, include adding in some honey or thyme to introduce some new flavors.

Now, if you prefer a thicker dressing, a creamy, yogurt-based lemon dressing might be more your speed. One version of this thicker lemon dressing includes adding your seared lemon, some yogurt, diced shallot, olive oil, and salt and pepper into a bowl. Mix together and drizzle atop the salad of your choice. It's as easy as that to elevate your lemon dressing.