Italian Dressing Recipe

Olive oil: This is the base of the dressing, providing a rich and smooth texture.

Red wine vinegar: Adds a tangy and slightly sweet flavor that balances the richness of the olive oil.

Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed, it adds a bright and zesty note to the dressing.

Dried oregano: Brings an earthy and slightly bitter flavor that is quintessential in Italian cuisine.

Dried basil: Adds a sweet and slightly peppery flavor, enhancing the overall taste.

Garlic: Minced garlic provides a pungent and savory depth to the dressing.

Sugar: A small amount of sugar balances the acidity of the vinegar and lemon juice.

Salt: Enhances all the flavors and brings the dressing together.

Black pepper: Freshly ground, it adds a subtle heat and complexity.

To achieve a well-emulsified dressing, slowly drizzle the olive oil into the vinegar mixture while continuously whisking. This will help the oil and vinegar blend together more smoothly, creating a cohesive and creamy texture.

• olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar healthy fat profile and a mild flavor that works well in dressings.

• red wine vinegar - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar has a tangy flavor that can mimic the acidity of red wine vinegar.

• freshly squeezed lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice provides a similar acidic and citrusy note to the dressing.

• dried oregano - Substitute with dried thyme: Dried thyme offers a slightly different but complementary herbal flavor.

• dried basil - Substitute with dried parsley: Dried parsley has a mild flavor that can complement the other herbs in the dressing.

• minced garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can provide a similar garlicky flavor, though it is less pungent.

• sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey adds sweetness and a slight floral note to the dressing.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a salty and umami flavor to the dressing.

• freshly ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a similar spiciness but a slightly different flavor profile.

• To store your freshly made Italian dressing, transfer it to an airtight container or a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid. This helps maintain its freshness and prevents any unwanted odors from seeping in.
• Place the container in the refrigerator. The olive oil may solidify slightly when chilled, but don't worry; this is completely normal. Simply let the dressing sit at room temperature for a few minutes before using, and give it a good shake to re-emulsify.
• For optimal flavor, use the dressing within one week. The garlic and herbs will infuse the olive oil and vinegar over time, enhancing the taste.
• If you wish to freeze the dressing, pour it into a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top to allow for expansion. Label the container with the date to keep track of its freshness.
• When ready to use, thaw the dressing in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, give it a vigorous shake or whisk to recombine the ingredients, as separation may occur during freezing.
• Avoid freezing the dressing for more than three months to ensure the best flavor and quality. The lemon juice and vinegar may lose some of their tanginess over extended periods in the freezer.
• Always check the dressing for any off smells or changes in texture before using, especially if it has been stored for a while. Freshness is key to enjoying the vibrant flavors of your homemade Italian dressing.

• Pour the Italian dressing into a small saucepan.
• Heat over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming.
• Avoid bringing it to a boil, as this can alter the flavor and consistency.
• Alternatively, you can place the dressing in a microwave-safe bowl.
• Microwave on low power in 10-second intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through.
• If you prefer a more hands-off approach, place the dressing in a heatproof jar.
• Submerge the jar in a bowl of warm water, allowing it to gently come to temperature.
• Once warmed, give it a good shake or stir to re-emulsify the olive oil and vinegar mixture.
• Taste and adjust seasoning if needed before serving.

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl used to combine and whisk the ingredients together.

• Whisk: A utensil used to blend the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, and other ingredients until well combined.

• Measuring cups: Tools used to measure the olive oil and red wine vinegar accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Tools used to measure the lemon juice, dried oregano, dried basil, sugar, salt, and black pepper precisely.

• Garlic press: A tool to mince the garlic clove efficiently.

• Storage container: An airtight container to store the dressing in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure and chop all ingredients ahead of time to streamline the process.

Use a jar for mixing: Combine all ingredients in a jar with a tight-fitting lid and shake vigorously instead of whisking.

Make a larger batch: Double or triple the recipe and store the extra in the refrigerator for future use.

Pre-minced garlic: Use pre-minced garlic from a jar to save time on chopping.

Use a blender: Blend all ingredients together for a smoother consistency and quicker preparation.