Italian Dressing Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy – Takes just a few minutes to whisk together.
• Healthier than Store-Bought – No preservatives or artificial additives.
• Versatile – Perfect for salads, marinades, and dipping.
• Customizable – Adjust the flavors to suit your taste.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Olive oil
• Red wine vinegar
• Lemon juice
• Dijon mustard
• Garlic, minced
• Honey or sugar (optional for balance)
• Dried oregano
• Dried basil
• Onion powder
• Red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• Salt and black pepper

Directions

1. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, and lemon juice.
2. Add the Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and honey (if using). Whisk until well combined.
3. Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, onion powder, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Store in a sealed jar and shake well before each use.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes about ¾ cup of dressing
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 5 minutes

Variations

• Creamy Italian Dressing – Add 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for a richer texture.
• Balsamic Italian Dressing – Substitute balsamic vinegar for red wine vinegar for a deeper flavor.
• Garlic Lovers’ Version – Increase the amount of garlic for a more intense taste.
• Spicy Italian Dressing – Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
• Separation: If the dressing separates, simply shake or whisk it before using.
• Bringing to Room Temperature: Olive oil may solidify in the fridge; let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes and shake well before serving.

FAQs

How long does homemade Italian dressing last?

It lasts about 1 week in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container.

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Yes! Use three times the amount of fresh herbs, but note that the dressing may not last as long.

What can I use instead of red wine vinegar?

You can substitute with white wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar, or balsamic vinegar for a different flavor profile.

Is this dressing gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but always check labels if using store-bought mustard or seasonings.

Can I make this dressing without oil?

Yes, you can replace the oil with extra vinegar, citrus juice, or a blend of water and Dijon mustard for a lighter version.

How can I make this dressing thicker?

Add a small amount of mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, or blended avocado for a thicker consistency.

Does Italian dressing need to be refrigerated?

Yes, because it contains fresh garlic and lemon juice, it should be stored in the fridge.

Can I use this dressing as a marinade?

Absolutely! It works great as a marinade for chicken, beef, shrimp, and roasted vegetables.

What’s the best way to mix the dressing?

A whisk works well, but shaking everything in a sealed jar is the easiest method.

Can I make a larger batch?

Yes, simply double or triple the ingredients and store in a larger container.

Conclusion

Homemade Italian dressing is a flavorful and easy way to elevate salads, sandwiches, and marinades. With fresh ingredients and no preservatives, it’s a healthier alternative to store-bought versions. Try this simple recipe and enjoy the vibrant, zesty taste of homemade Italian dressing.