Lemon Thyme Grain Bowl Vinaigrette

Name: Lemon Thyme Grain Bowl Vinaigrette
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: International Recipe Collection

A zesty and herby vinaigrette that elevates any grain bowl with refreshing flavors.

Created by

Emily Carter

Last updated on 2025-12-18T17:37:50.679Z

This Lemon Thyme Grain Bowl Vinaigrette is perfect for drizzling over your favorite grains, salads, or roasted vegetables. The bright, citrusy flavor combined with fresh thyme creates a delightful dressing that will awaken your taste buds.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bright and zesty flavor that enhances any dish
Fresh thyme adds a unique herbal note
Quick and easy to prepare with minimal ingredients

      

Elevate Your Grain Bowl

A grain bowl can be a canvas for flavors, and the Lemon Thyme Vinaigrette takes it to the next level. The zesty brightness of lemon combined with the earthy notes of thyme creates a refreshing contrast that enhances grains like quinoa, farro, or brown rice. This vinaigrette not only adds flavor but also brings a lively color to your bowl, making your meal visually appealing and enticing.

When you drizzle this vinaigrette over your grain bowl, you're not just adding taste; you're creating a balanced dish. The acidity from the lemon juice helps to cut through the richness of any additional toppings, whether you're adding roasted vegetables, nuts, or even creamy avocado. This balance is key to a satisfying meal that leaves you feeling nourished and energized.

Versatile and Customizable

One of the best aspects of this Lemon Thyme Vinaigrette is its versatility. While it pairs beautifully with grain bowls, it can also be used as a dressing for salads, a marinade for proteins, or even a drizzle over roasted vegetables. The bright flavors complement a variety of ingredients, allowing you to mix and match based on what you have on hand.

Feel free to experiment with the herbs you use. If thyme isn't your favorite, try swapping it out for fresh basil or parsley for a different herbal profile. You can also adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of honey or maple syrup, tailoring the dressing to suit your taste. This adaptability means you'll never tire of this vinaigrette, as it can evolve with your culinary explorations.

Quick and Healthy

In today's fast-paced world, preparing healthy meals can sometimes feel like a challenge. This Lemon Thyme Vinaigrette comes together in minutes, making it an ideal solution for busy weeknights. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a dressing that transforms ordinary meals into something special without spending hours in the kitchen.

Moreover, this vinaigrette is packed with health benefits. Olive oil is known for its heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, while lemon juice provides a boost of vitamin C and antioxidants. Fresh herbs like thyme not only enhance flavor but also add nutrients. By incorporating this vinaigrette into your meals, you’re making a delicious choice that supports your well-being.

Ingredients

Vinaigrette Ingredients

1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
Salt and pepper to taste

Combine all ingredients in a jar and shake well.

Instructions

Prepare the Vinaigrette

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and honey until well combined.

Add Herbs and Season

Stir in the fresh thyme leaves, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the sweetness or acidity as desired.

Serve

Drizzle over your favorite grain bowl or salad, and enjoy!

Store any leftover vinaigrette in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Storing Your Vinaigrette

Once you've made your Lemon Thyme Vinaigrette, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. This makes it perfect for meal prep, as you can make a batch at the beginning of the week and use it throughout. Just give it a good shake before using, as the ingredients may separate over time.

If you prefer to make smaller batches, you can easily halve the recipe. This way, you can always enjoy the freshness of homemade vinaigrette without worrying about it sitting in your fridge for too long. However, we doubt it will last very long once you taste it!

Pairing Suggestions

This Lemon Thyme Vinaigrette pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. For a complete meal, try it drizzled over a grain bowl topped with roasted chicken, sautéed greens, and a sprinkle of feta cheese. The tangy dressing will elevate each component, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.

For a lighter option, consider using it on a simple mixed green salad with cherry tomatoes and cucumber. The freshness of the vinaigrette complements the crisp vegetables beautifully, making it a fantastic side dish for any main course.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of this Lemon Thyme Vinaigrette contains healthy fats from the olive oil, which are essential for heart health. The addition of lemon juice not only adds flavor but also contributes to your daily intake of vitamin C, which is important for immune function.

If you're watching your sugar intake, you can adjust the amount of honey or maple syrup to suit your dietary needs. The vinaigrette remains flavorful even with less sweetener, allowing you to enjoy its benefits without compromising your health goals.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried thyme instead of fresh?

Yes, but use only about 1/3 of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.

→ How long does the vinaigrette last in the fridge?

It can last up to one week in an airtight container.

→ What can I use this vinaigrette on?

It's great on grain bowls, salads, roasted vegetables, and even as a marinade for proteins.

→ Can I make this vinaigrette vegan?

Yes, simply substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.