Homemade Italian Dressing

Homemade Italian dressing is a zesty, tangy vinaigrette that’s incredibly easy to make and far more flavorful than store-bought versions. Made with a simple blend of olive oil, vinegar, and dried herbs, this dressing brings a burst of freshness to salads, vegetables, and marinades.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Takes just 5 minutes to make
• Uses pantry staples—no fancy ingredients
• Fresher and healthier than bottled dressings
• Customizable to your taste preferences
• Perfect for salads, pasta salads, and marinades
• No preservatives or added sugars
• Vegan and gluten-free
• Stores well in the fridge
• Great for meal prep
• A classic dressing you’ll reach for again and again

Ingredients

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

• olive oil
• red or white wine vinegar
• garlic powder
• dried oregano
• dried basil
• onion powder
• crushed red pepper flakes
• salt
• black pepper
• lemon juice

Directions

this recipe

1. Combine all ingredients in a jar or small bowl.
2. If using a jar, secure the lid and shake vigorously. If using a bowl, whisk until well blended.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning to your preference.
4. Refrigerate until ready to use. Shake or stir well before each use.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 5 minutes

Variations

• Creamy Italian: Add 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt.
• Cheesy Twist: Stir in 2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese.
• Sweet Italian: Add 1 teaspoon of honey or maple syrup for a touch of sweetness.
• Balsamic Version: Swap the wine vinegar for balsamic vinegar.
• Fresh Herbs: Use fresh herbs in place of dried (triple the amount).

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store in an airtight container or jar in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
• Recombining: Natural separation will occur—shake or whisk well before each use.
• Note: Olive oil may solidify slightly in the fridge. Let sit at room temperature for a few minutes to loosen.

FAQs

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Yes, substitute each teaspoon of dried herbs with 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh herbs.

What kind of vinegar works best?

Red or white wine vinegar is traditional, but apple cider or balsamic vinegar also work well.

Is this dressing gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just double-check labels if you’re using store-bought seasonings.

Can I use another oil besides olive oil?

Yes, avocado oil or another neutral oil can be used, though flavor will differ slightly.

How do I make it less tangy?

Use less vinegar or add a touch of honey to mellow the acidity.

How long will this dressing last?

It will keep well in the fridge for up to 2 weeks if stored in a sealed container.

Can I freeze Italian dressing?

Freezing is not recommended—it can change the texture and separate upon thawing.

Can I use this as a marinade?

Absolutely. It works great for marinating chicken, pork, beef, or vegetables.

What if I don’t have red pepper flakes?

You can skip them or substitute with a dash of hot sauce for a similar spicy kick.

Is this dressing vegan?

Yes, it’s 100% plant-based. Just avoid adding cheese or honey if keeping it strictly vegan.

Conclusion

Homemade Italian dressing is a simple yet powerful way to elevate your meals with bold, herby flavor. Quick to make and endlessly versatile, it’s a must-have staple for any kitchen. Whether you’re tossing a salad or marinating chicken, this zesty dressing always delivers.

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