Introduction
Italian Dressing is a classic condiment, perfect for salads, marinades, or as a dipping sauce for appetizers and vegetables. This tangy, herbaceous dressing, featuring a bright blend of olive oil, vinegar, and Italian herbs, delivers a versatile, flavorful addition that elevates any dish. Presented in a white ceramic cruet or small bowl, optionally garnished with fresh parsley or basil, this Italian Dressing recipe offers a vibrant, appetizing aesthetic that enhances any meal. This recipe provides a simple homemade version with pantry staples, adaptable for dietary preferences, ideal for home cooks seeking a crowd-pleasing dressing that brings Italian flair to any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Italian Dressing:
- 3/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp honey (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a slight kick)
For Serving:
- Optional: Chopped fresh parsley or basil for garnish
- Suggested Accompaniments: Mixed green salad, grilled vegetables, crusty bread
- Suggested Pairings: Sparkling water, white wine
- Suggested Aesthetic: Serve in a white ceramic cruet or small bowl
- Suggested Equipment: Small mixing bowl or jar with lid, whisk, measuring cups/spoons, garlic press (optional)
Step-by-Step Process
- Combine Ingredients: In a small mixing bowl or jar, combine olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey (if using), minced garlic, oregano, basil, thyme, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Whisk or Shake: Whisk vigorously with a whisk or seal the jar and shake well until the dressing is emulsified and well combined.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the dressing and adjust with a pinch more salt, a splash of vinegar for tanginess, or a touch of honey for sweetness to ensure a balanced flavor.
- Rest: Let the dressing sit for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve: Pour into a white ceramic cruet or small bowl. Optionally garnish with chopped parsley or basil. Serve over mixed green salads, grilled vegetables, or as a dip with crusty bread, paired with sparkling water or white wine.
Tips for Better Italian Dressing
- Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor and richness.
- Taste the dressing before serving to balance tangy, savory, and herbaceous flavors; adjust sparingly.
- Mince garlic finely or use a garlic press for even distribution.
- Shake or whisk well to emulsify the oil and vinegar for a cohesive texture.
- Present in a white ceramic cruet for easy pouring or a small bowl for dipping to highlight the vibrant, golden-green hue.
- Make ahead: You can prepare the dressing up to one week in advance. Store it in the fridge and shake before using.
- Let the dressing sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving if refrigerated, to restore pourability.
- Enhance aesthetic: Garnish fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a bright, green pop.
Variations and Customization
- Low-Sodium Italian Dressing: Reduce salt to 1/4 tsp and adjust to taste.
- Sugar-Free Italian Dressing: Omit honey or replace it with a sugar-free sweetener like stevia.
- Balsamic Italian Dressing: Substitute red wine vinegar with balsamic vinegar for a sweeter, richer flavor.
- Creamy Italian Dressing: Add 2 tbsp mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for a creamy texture.
- Spicy Italian Dressing: Increase red pepper flakes to 1/2 tsp or add 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper.
- Fresh Herb Italian Dressing: Replace dried herbs with 1 tbsp each of chopped fresh oregano, basil, and thyme.
- Lemon Italian Dressing: Increase lemon juice to 2 tbsp and omit vinegar for a citrus-forward flavor.
- Parmesan Italian Dressing: Stir in 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese for a cheesy twist.
Storage and Serving Tips
- Store dressing in an airtight jar or container in the fridge for up to 1 week; shake or stir well before using.
- Do not freeze, as the oil and vinegar may separate upon thawing.
- Serve at room temperature for the best flavor and pourable consistency.
- Use as a salad dressing, marinade for meats or vegetables, or a dip for bread and appetizers.
- Pair with sparkling water or white wine to complement the tangy, herbaceous flavors.
- Present in a white ceramic cruet or small bowl with herb garnishes for a vibrant, inviting charm.
Nutritional Information
Based on 8 servings (2 tbsp each):
- Calories: 190 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 2g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 0g
- Vitamin A: 0% Daily Value
- Vitamin C: 2% Daily Value
- Calcium: 2% Daily Value
- Iron: 2% Daily Value
Note: Values vary by ingredient brands and substitutions (sugar-free options reduce sugars). Moderate in calories; use sparingly for lighter meals.
Conclusion
This Italian Dressing recipe delivers a tangy, herbaceous condiment perfect for salads or marinades, transforming simple ingredients into a zesty favorite. Its quick preparation and vibrant presentation make it a go-to. The bright flavors and smooth texture delight every drizzle. It’s sure to be a cherished recipe, loved for its crowd-pleasing versatility.
Italian Dressing Recipe: Tangy and Herbaceous
Ingredients
- ¾ cup extra virgin olive oil
- ¼ cup red wine vinegar
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp honey optional
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes optional
- Optional: Chopped parsley basil
- Suggested Pairings: Sparkling water white wine
Instructions
- Combine olive oil, vinegar, lemon juice, mustard, honey, garlic, and seasonings in a bowl or jar.
- Whisk or shake until emulsified.
- Taste and adjust with salt, vinegar, or honey.
- Let's sit for 10 minutes.
- Serve in a white ceramic cruet or bowl with herbs, salad, or bread.
Notes
- Use high-quality olive oil.
- Store in the fridge for 1 week; shake before use.
- Try a creamy or balsamic variation.
- Pair with grilled vegetables.
