Zesty Manuka Lemon & Dijon Dressing
A bright, pantry-friendly dressing sweetened with Manuka honey for depth and balance
A quick, emulsified salad dressing that pairs floral Manuka honey with tangy lemon and sharp Dijon. Perfect for leafy salads, roasted vegetables or as a glaze for grilled fish — made in minutes and left to meld for a rounded flavour.
Timing
Cook Time: PT0M
Prep Time: PT10M
Rest Time: PT15M
Total Time: PT25M
Active Time: PT10M
Ingredients
3
tbsp
Manuka honey
(Notes: room temperature; UMF 10 (MGO ~263) recommended — adjust sweetness to taste)
3
tbsp
extra virgin olive oil
(Notes: cold-pressed for best flavour)
2
tbsp
fresh lemon juice
(Notes: about 1 lemon)
1
tbsp
Dijon mustard
(Notes: creates stable emulsion)
1
tbsp
apple cider vinegar
(Notes: for brightness and gut-friendly tang)
1
tsp
finely grated garlic
(Notes: or 1 small clove, grated)
1
tsp
tamari or light soy sauce
(Notes: optional — adds umami and depth)
1
tsp
finely grated lemon zest
(Notes: zest enhances aroma)
to taste
sea salt & freshly cracked black pepper
Instructions
Step 1
In a medium bowl or a jar, combine the Manuka honey, Dijon mustard, fresh lemon juice and apple cider vinegar. Add the grated garlic and tamari if using.
Tip: If your Manuka honey is firm, warm the jar in a bowl of warm water for a minute to make it easier to measure and mix.
Step 2
Whisk the mixture briskly while slowly streaming in the extra virgin olive oil until a smooth, slightly thickened emulsion forms. If using a jar, add the oil, seal and shake vigorously for 30–45 seconds.
Tip: Adding the oil slowly helps the dressing emulsify and prevents separation.
Timing: PT45S
Step 3
Stir through the lemon zest and season with sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Taste and adjust balance — add a little more Manuka honey for sweetness or a squeeze more lemon for acidity.
Tip: Balance is key: the Manuka should complement, not overpower, the lemon and mustard.
Step 4
Cover and refrigerate for 15 minutes to let the flavours marry and the garlic mellow. This short rest improves mouthfeel and blends the floral honey notes with the mustard.
Tip: Make ahead: the dressing keeps well for up to 5 days in the fridge; shake before each use.
Timing: PT15M
Step 5
Shake or whisk again before serving. Drizzle over mixed baby leaves, roasted root veg, or use as a glaze for grilled chicken or fish.
Tip: Use small batches for peak freshness and to preserve the nuanced Manuka flavour.