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Italian Dressing

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marinades & dressings•salad dressing•italian american•vegan, gluten-free
10 minutes•about 1 cup (8 servings)•

Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
  • 2 tbsp water
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 tsp granulated sugar (2.1g)
  • 3/4 tsp kosher salt
  • 1 clove garlic – finely grated
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp dried basil
  • 1/2 tsp dried parsley
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper – freshly ground
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
  • 3/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
Italian dressing

Instructions

  1. 1.

    In a medium bowl or jar, whisk the red wine vinegar, water, Dijon mustard, sugar, and kosher salt until the sugar and salt dissolve.

  2. 2.

    Add the grated garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, dried parsley, onion powder, black pepper, and red pepper flakes; whisk to combine.

  3. 3.

    Slowly stream in the extra-virgin olive oil while whisking constantly until the dressing looks slightly thickened and emulsified, 30–60 seconds. Alternatively, seal the jar and shake vigorously for 30 seconds.

  4. 4.

    Let the dressing stand for 10 minutes to allow the dried herbs to hydrate and flavors to meld.

  5. 5.

    Taste and adjust: add a pinch more salt if needed, a splash of vinegar for more tang, or a small pinch of sugar or another tablespoon of oil if too sharp.

  6. 6.

    Use immediately to dress salads or as a marinade, or refrigerate in a sealed jar for up to 3 days. Shake well before each use as natural separation will occur.

Italian dressing is a zesty, herb-forward vinaigrette with a bright tang from wine vinegar balanced by the richness of olive oil. Dried oregano, basil, and parsley provide its signature aroma, while garlic, onion, and pepper lend savory depth and a gentle kick. Lightly emulsified, it clings well to crisp greens, chopped salads, and vegetables, and doubles as a quick marinade for poultry and vegetables.

Despite its name, Italian dressing is a distinctly Italian-American creation that took shape in the mid-20th century. It draws inspiration from Italian oil-and-vinegar condimenti but amps up herbs, garlic, and spices to suit American palates. Bottled and dry-mix versions helped popularize it nationwide, making it a staple of pizzerias, delis, and home kitchens across the United States.