Created on December 14th, 2025 at 09:00 am
A flavorful blend that enhances any dish
Italian dressing is a vibrant, tangy blend of herbs and spices, capturing the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. This dressing is not just a salad topper; it can invigorate a myriad of dishes, from marinated grilled vegetables to pasta salads. The rich aroma of garlic and the freshness of herbs mingle beautifully, creating an inviting scent that lingers in the kitchen. The warm hue, often punctuated by flecks of herbs, entices the senses, hinting at the burst of flavor to come.
Embodying both simplicity and versatility, this dressing can easily become a staple in your kitchen. It adds a punch of flavor without overwhelming the palate, making it delightful as a marinade or a dressing. Whether drizzled over a fresh garden salad or used to enhance roasted meats and vegetables, Italian dressing brings warmth and comfort into every dish it touches. It’s the kind of recipe that transforms ordinary ingredients into something extraordinary.
Why This Recipe Works
What makes this homemade Italian dressing so appealing is its incredible depth of flavor and ease of preparation. The harmonious balance of acidity from the vinegar and richness from the oil creates an inviting dressing that complements a wide range of ingredients. The freshness of herbs like basil, oregano, and parsley breathes life into salads and sides. This versatility means you can use it in numerous dishes, making meal prep a breeze and your dining experience enjoyable.
Another wonderful aspect of this dressing is its simplicity. With just a few essential ingredients, you can whip it up in minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests. Beyond its immediate use, the flavors meld and deepen when stored in the refrigerator, offering a delightful twist if you decide to use it the next day. It pairs beautifully with fresh vegetables, roasted meats, or even as a marinade, making it a must-have recipe in your rotation.
Time Breakdown
Italian dressing is quick and straightforward to prepare, requiring minimal time and effort. It fits seamlessly into any busy schedule, taking advantage of simple pantry staples to create something delightful.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 12 (makes about 1½ cups)
Ingredients List
- ¾ cup extra virgin olive oil
- ¼ cup red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp sugar
- Optional: fresh chopped herbs such as parsley or thyme
- Optional: crushed red pepper flakes for heat
Kitchen Tools
Creating this Italian dressing is simple and requires just a few common kitchen tools. You likely already have everything you need at hand.
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk or fork
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Jar or bottle for storage
Step-by-Step Instructions
Begin by gathering all your ingredients in a mixing bowl. Make sure everything is at room temperature for better emulsification. The rich olive oil combined with tangy vinegar will create a beautiful dressing.
Add the red wine vinegar to the bowl, followed by the dried oregano, dried basil, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and sugar. The combination of these spices will give the dressing its distinctive Italian flavor profile.
Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously. This process will help emulsify the dressing, creating a smooth, cohesive mixture. As you whisk, observe how the ingredients come together, forming a creamy texture.
Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Depending on your preference, you may want to add more salt, pepper, or even a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for some extra heat.
Once satisfied with the flavor, transfer the dressing into a jar or bottle. Seal tightly and store in the refrigerator. If using fresh herbs, chop them finely and stir them in just before serving to keep the flavors bright.
Allow the dressing to sit for at least 30 minutes before using, if possible. This resting time helps the flavors develop and blend beautifully. Enjoy this simple yet delicious dressing over salads or as a marinade for meats.
Pro Tips
- Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
- Fresh herbs can enhance the dressing’s aroma but should be added just before serving to retain their brightness.
- Experiment with different types of vinegar for a unique twist each time you make the dressing.
- This dressing is well-suited for meal prep; it tastes even better after it’s had time to blend flavors in the refrigerator.
Simple and Versatile Flavor
This Italian dressing shines in its simplicity and versatility. It brings warmth and vibrancy to any meal, whether tossed with greens, drizzled over grilled chicken, or used to marinate fresh vegetables. The balance of flavors reflects the essence of Italian cooking, celebrating fresh herbs and quality ingredients. This dressing is more than just flavor; it embodies the spirit of home cooking and reminds us that good food can be effortless and exquisite.
What to Serve With Italian Dressing
What complements Italian dressing beautifully? The options are plentiful, making it a perfect fit for various dishes. Start with a classic green salad. The tanginess of the dressing brightens crisp greens, ripe tomatoes, and cucumbers, adding depth and character to each bite.
Grilled vegetables are another fantastic pairing. When marinated in Italian dressing before grilling, vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplants take on a delightful char and flavor that meld perfectly with the dressing’s Mediterranean notes.
For a creative touch, try incorporating it into pasta dishes. A cold pasta salad with bowtie pasta, olives, cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella tossed in Italian dressing offers brightness and a satisfying texture, perfect for warm weather gatherings.
In these combinations, the dressing’s vibrant flavors enhance each dish, ensuring that every meal is accompanied by a touch of Italian comfort.
Nutrition Table
| Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 100 kcal |
| Protein | 0 g |
| Fat | 11 g |
| Carbohydrates | 1 g |
| Fiber | 0 g |
| Sugar | 0 g |
| Sodium | 180 mg |
Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.
Italian Dressing
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- ¾ cup extra virgin olive oil Use high-quality for the best flavor.
- ¼ cup red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp salt Adjust to taste.
- ¼ tsp black pepper Adjust to taste.
- 1 tsp sugar
- Optional: fresh chopped herbs such as parsley or thyme Add just before serving.
- Optional: crushed red pepper flakes for heat Add for extra spice.
Instructions
Preparation
- Gather all your ingredients in a mixing bowl at room temperature.
- Add the red wine vinegar, dried oregano, dried basil, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and sugar.
- Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously to emulsify the dressing.
- Taste the dressing and adjust seasonings as necessary.
- Transfer the dressing to a jar or bottle and store in the refrigerator.
- Allow to rest for at least 30 minutes before using to develop flavors.
Notes
Enjoyed this recipe? Leave a review!
There are no reviews yet. Be the first one to write one.
