Description
This Homemade Italian Dressing is a vibrant, tangy blend of extra-virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, vinegar, and an array of Italian herbs and spices. Perfect for salads or marinating, this easy-to-make dressing features the creamy richness of mayonnaise and the umami of parmesan cheese, balanced by a hint of sweetness and a subtle kick from red pepper flakes. It can be quickly whisked together and stored in the fridge for convenient use throughout the week.
Ingredients
Scale
Primary Ingredients
- â…” cup extra-virgin (light) olive oil
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar or red wine vinegar
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 to 2 teaspoons honey or sugar
- ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
Dry Herbs & Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon dried minced garlic
- 2 teaspoons dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: Add the extra-virgin olive oil, mayonnaise, white or red wine vinegar, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey or sugar, grated parmesan cheese, dried minced garlic, dried parsley, dried basil, dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and freshly ground black pepper to a medium-sized mixing bowl.
- Whisk Together: Whisk all the ingredients vigorously until the dressing is fully emulsified and the texture is smooth and uniform. This step ensures all flavors meld beautifully.
- Use or Store: Use the dressing immediately on your favorite salad or pour it into a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid to store in the refrigerator. The dressing can solidify or separate when chilled; before use, bring it to room temperature and shake or whisk well to recombine.
Notes
- For a smoother dressing texture, you can blend instead of whisking.
- Adjust honey or sugar according to your preferred level of sweetness.
- Use fresh herbs if available for a more vibrant flavor.
- Shake or whisk well after refrigeration as the dressing will separate and thicken when cold.
- This dressing keeps well for up to 1 week refrigerated.
