Description
Whisk together a vibrant and tangy Italian Dressing, perfect for drizzling over salads, marinating meats, or as a zesty addition to sandwiches. This homemade version is full of herbs and spices, offering a fresh and flavorful alternative to store-bought dressings. Enjoy the lively taste of Italy in your own kitchen with this easy-to-make dressing.
Ingredients
Scale
- 3/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup white wine vinegar or red wine vinegar
- 2 tablespoons water
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
Instructions
- Combine Vinegar and Spices: In a bowl or a jar with a tight-fitting lid, combine the white wine vinegar (or red wine vinegar), water, minced garlic, oregano, basil, sugar (if using), salt, black pepper, thyme, parsley, onion powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir or shake well to mix.
- Add Olive Oil: Gradually add the olive oil to the vinegar and spice mixture, whisking continuously to emulsify. If using a jar, you can add the olive oil, secure the lid, and shake vigorously.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the dressing and adjust the seasonings if necessary. For a more robust flavor, you can add a bit more of any of the herbs or spices.
- Chill: For the best flavor, refrigerate the dressing for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together.
- Serve: Shake or stir the dressing well before serving. Drizzle over your favorite salads, use it as a marinade for chicken or vegetables, or add a splash to sandwiches for extra flavor.
- Store: Keep the Italian Dressing in the refrigerator in a sealed container or jar. It should stay fresh for up to 2 weeks.
Notes
- Quality of Ingredients: The taste of your dressing greatly depends on the quality of the ingredients used, especially the olive oil and vinegar.
- Adjust to Taste: Feel free to adjust the amounts of herbs, garlic, and seasonings according to your taste preferences. Adding ingredients like Parmesan cheese or crushed red pepper flakes can also enhance the flavor.
- Shake Well Before Using: The oil and vinegar will separate when sitting, so always give your dressing a good shake before dressing your salad.
- Experiment with Vinegars: Different vinegars can lend unique flavors to your dressing. Experiment with balsamic, champagne, or sherry vinegar for variety.
- Healthier Options: For a healthier version, use less salt and sugar, or substitute with healthier options like honey or stevia for sweetness.