Italian Dressing

A jar of Italian salad dressing on a slate board with all the other ingredients.

Let’s make one of the most classic salad dressings in the comfort of your own home. This Italian dressing is simple yet flavourful and filled with zesty flavours. Perfect for many salad recipes.

Course Salad Dressing

Cuisine International

Diet Gluten Free, Low Calorie, Low Fat, Low Lactose, Vegan, Vegetarian

Dietary Egg Free, Nut Free, Plant-Based

Prep Time 10

Total Time 10

Servings people

Calories 247kcal

Author Amy Chung

Ingredients

¼ cup red wine vinegar
½ cup olive oil
1 tsp Dijon mustard
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
½ tsp dried oregano
½ tsp dried basil
½ tsp sugar
¼ tsp salt
¼ tsp pepper

Metric - US Customary

Instructions

In a small mixing bowl, add the red wine vinegar. Slowly pour in the olive oil, whisking as you do so to ensure it is properly emulsified.
Add the rest of the ingredients.
Whisk until well combined.

Notes

For a creamy version, add 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise or Greek yoghurt. For extra creaminess and tang, a splash of buttermilk will do the trick.
For a spicy Italian dressing, add ¼ teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Want a citrus kick? Replace the red wine vinegar with fresh lemon juice. Add 1 teaspoon of lemon zest for an extra burst of lemon.
For a herbed Italian dressing, add 1 tablespoon of freshly chopped herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary for a fresh, herby flavour. Use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder for a more pungent taste.
Balsamic Italian dressing can be made by substituting red wine vinegar with balsamic vinegar for a sweeter, richer flavour.
If you would like to substitute red wine vinegar, try apple cider vinegar, white wine vinegar, or balsamic vinegar. For a milder flavour, use rice vinegar or champagne vinegar.
Dijon mustard alternatives include yellow mustard or wholegrain mustard, which have a different texture and flavour. For a sweeter alternative, use honey mustard.
If you prefer to use fresh garlic, you most certainly can! Use 1-2 cloves of freshly minced garlic for greater intensity. You can also try garlic paste or roasted garlic for a milder, sweeter taste.
Want to use fresh onion? Absolutely. Substitute with 1 tablespoon of finely minced fresh onion or shallot.

Nutrition