Homemade Italian Dressing is a vibrant, zesty blend that elevates any dish in just five minutes. Its tangy red wine vinegar, fragrant garlic, and aromatic herbs create a symphony of flavors that store-bought versions simply can’t match. Perfectly balanced with a hint of sweetness and a touch of olive oil, it’s a versatile dressing that’s as delightful on salads as it is drizzled over grilled veggies or roasted chicken.
This recipe is a game-changer for busy cooks who crave fresh, bold flavors without the fuss. The smooth, emulsified texture clings beautifully to greens, while the bright, herbaceous notes awaken your palate. Whip it up in moments, and savor the satisfaction of a homemade dressing that’s as easy as it is delicious.
What You’ll Need for Homemade Italian Dressing?
- 6 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil (use high-quality for best flavor)
- 3 tablespoons white wine vinegar (apple cider vinegar works as a substitute)
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 medium lemon)
- 1½ tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley (or 1½ teaspoons dried parsley)
- 1½ teaspoons honey (maple syrup or agave can be used instead)
- 1½ teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 garlic clove, grated (or ½ teaspoon garlic powder)
- ¾ teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ¾ teaspoon dried thyme
- Heaping ¼ teaspoon sea salt (adjust to taste)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 3 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, optional (omit for a vegan version)
How to Make Homemade Italian Dressing?
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, white wine vinegar, lemon juice, parsley, honey, oregano, garlic, Dijon mustard, thyme, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- If desired, stir in the Parmesan cheese for added richness.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Shake well before using if stored.
Perfect Pairings: Serving Suggestions
This Homemade Italian Dressing is incredibly versatile! Drizzle it over crisp green salads, use it as a marinade for grilled chicken or shrimp, or toss it with roasted vegetables for a burst of flavor. It also makes a delicious dip for crusty bread or a light dressing for pasta salads. Pro tip: Add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese for a savory finish!
Keep It Fresh: Storage Tips
Store your dressing in an airtight container or jar in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Before using, give it a good shake or stir to recombine the ingredients. If the olive oil solidifies slightly in the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to return to its liquid state. Note: If you’ve added Parmesan cheese, consume within 3-4 days for the best flavor.
Mix It Up: Recipe Variations
Customize this dressing to suit your taste! Swap white wine vinegar for red wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar for a deeper flavor. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick, or substitute fresh basil for parsley for a herby twist. For a creamier texture, blend in 1-2 tablespoons of Greek yogurt or mayonnaise. Experiment and make it your own!
Quick & Easy: Time-Saving Tips
To save time, prep a double batch and store it for later use. You can also pre-chop the parsley and grate the garlic in advance, keeping them ready in the fridge. If you’re in a rush, skip the fresh parsley and use 1 teaspoon of dried parsley instead. Remember: This recipe comes together in just 5 minutes, so it’s perfect for busy days!
Homemade Italian Dressing
Ingredients
- 6 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons white wine vinegar
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1½ tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley
- 1½ teaspoons honey
- 1½ teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 clove garlic, grated
- ¾ teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ¾ teaspoon dried thyme
- Heaping ¼ teaspoon sea salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 3 tablespoons Parmesan cheese optional
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together the oil, vinegar, lemon juice, parsley, honey, oregano, garlic, mustard, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- If desired, stir in the cheese.