Italian Dressing Recipe

Olive oil: A rich and flavorful oil that forms the base of the dressing.

Red wine vinegar: Adds a tangy and slightly sweet flavor to the dressing.

Lemon juice: Provides a fresh and zesty note.

Dried oregano: Brings a warm, aromatic flavor typical of Italian cuisine.

Dried basil: Adds a sweet and slightly peppery taste.

Garlic powder: Infuses the dressing with a mild garlic flavor.

Onion powder: Adds a subtle onion flavor without overpowering the dressing.

Salt: Enhances all the other flavors.

Black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and complexity.

When preparing this Italian dressing, consider using a small mason jar instead of a mixing bowl. Add all the ingredients to the jar, secure the lid tightly, and shake vigorously until well combined. This method not only ensures thorough mixing but also makes it easier to store and shake again before each use, keeping the emulsion intact.

• olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar mild flavor and healthy fat profile, making it a great alternative.

• red wine vinegar - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar provides a similar tangy acidity and can be used in the same quantity.

• freshly squeezed lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice offers a comparable citrusy brightness and acidity.

• dried oregano - Substitute with dried thyme: Dried thyme has a similar earthy and slightly minty flavor profile.

• dried basil - Substitute with dried marjoram: Dried marjoram has a sweet and slightly citrusy flavor that can mimic the taste of basil.

• garlic powder - Substitute with granulated garlic: Granulated garlic has a similar flavor and can be used in the same quantity.

• onion powder - Substitute with dried minced onion: Dried minced onion provides a similar onion flavor and can be used in a slightly larger quantity.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt has a similar salty flavor and can be used in the same quantity.

• freshly ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a similar heat and flavor profile but is slightly milder.

• To store your Italian dressing, pour it into an airtight container, such as a glass jar or a plastic bottle with a tight-fitting lid. This will help maintain the freshness and flavor of the dressing.
• Place the container in the refrigerator. The olive oil in the dressing may solidify slightly when chilled, but don't worry; this is normal. Simply let the dressing sit at room temperature for a few minutes before using it, and give it a good shake to re-emulsify.
• For optimal flavor, use the dressing within one week. The lemon juice and red wine vinegar will help preserve the dressing, but the flavors are best when fresh.
• If you want to freeze the dressing, pour it into a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top to allow for expansion. Seal the container tightly.
• Label the container with the date so you can keep track of its freshness. Frozen Italian dressing can be stored for up to three months.
• When you're ready to use the frozen dressing, transfer it to the refrigerator to thaw overnight. Once thawed, give it a good shake or whisk to re-emulsify the ingredients.
• Avoid freezing the dressing in glass containers, as the expansion of the liquid could cause the glass to crack. Opt for plastic containers or freezer bags instead.
• If you notice any separation or changes in texture after thawing, simply whisk the dressing vigorously to bring it back to its original consistency.

• Pour the Italian dressing into a small saucepan.

• Heat over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming.

• Once the dressing is warmed through, remove from heat and let it cool slightly before using.

• Alternatively, place the Italian dressing in a microwave-safe bowl.

• Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or a microwave-safe plate to prevent splatters.

• Microwave on low power for 15-20 seconds, then stir.

• Continue microwaving in 10-second intervals, stirring in between, until the dressing is warmed to your liking.

• For a quick method, run the sealed container of Italian dressing under warm tap water.

• Shake the container occasionally to ensure even warming.

• Once the dressing reaches the desired temperature, it's ready to use.

• If you prefer a more hands-off approach, place the sealed container of Italian dressing in a bowl of warm water.

• Let it sit for a few minutes, shaking occasionally to distribute the heat.

• Once the dressing is warmed through, remove from the water and use as needed.

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

• Whisk: A utensil used to blend the ingredients smoothly and incorporate air.

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

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

• Airtight container: A container used to store the dressing in the refrigerator to keep it fresh.

Pre-mix dry ingredients: Combine dried oregano, dried basil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper in advance and store in a small jar.

Use a mason jar: Add all ingredients to a mason jar, seal, and shake vigorously to mix. This saves whisking time and makes for easy storage.

Double the recipe: Make a larger batch and store in the refrigerator. This reduces the frequency of preparation.

Pre-squeeze lemon juice: Keep freshly squeezed lemon juice in a small container in the fridge for quick access.