Italian dressing – a staple condiment in many cuisines around the world. But why settle for just one flavor profile when you can have twenty? In this article, we’ll be exploring the wonderful world of Italian dressings, each with its unique twist and flair. From classic combinations to bold and adventurous flavors, there’s something for everyone on this list.
We’ll start with some tried-and-true favorites, like our Classic Italian Dressing with Olive Oil, a timeless blend of herbs and spices that pairs perfectly with a juicy grilled chicken or a crisp green salad. And then we’ll get adventurous, introducing you to flavor combinations you never knew you needed, like Zesty Lemon Italian Dressing or Creamy Parmesan Italian Dressing.
So if you’re ready to take your salad game (or your pasta dishes, or your sandwiches…) to the next level, keep reading for our top 20 Italian dressing recipes that are sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Classic Italian Dressing with Olive Oil
A timeless and flavorful condiment perfect for salads, marinades, or as a dip. This recipe makes about 2 cups of dressing, which can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup red wine vinegar
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon chopped fresh oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together the red wine vinegar, garlic, Dijon mustard, and salt until well combined.
2. Slowly pour in the olive oil while continuously whisking the mixture until it’s fully incorporated.
3. Stir in the chopped oregano and season with pepper to taste.
4. Store the dressing in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a condiment recipe.
Zesty Lemon Italian Dressing
Add a burst of citrus flavor to your salads with this homemade Zesty Lemon Italian Dressing recipe! With its perfect balance of tangy and sweet, this dressing is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine lemon juice, red wine vinegar, garlic, Dijon mustard, and dried oregano.
2. Blend until smooth and well combined.
3. With the blender or food processor running, slowly pour in olive oil through the top.
4. Continue blending until dressing is emulsified and thickened.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Creamy Parmesan Italian Dressing
Elevate your salads with this rich and tangy homemade dressing, featuring the flavors of Italy.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
2. Refrigerate the dressing for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None (ready in just 5 minutes of prep!)
Garlic Herb Italian Dressing
Elevate your salads with a flavorful and aromatic homemade garlic herb Italian dressing! This simple recipe combines the richness of garlic, herbs, and spices to create a delicious and versatile condiment.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup red wine vinegar
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine red wine vinegar, garlic, parsley, basil, and oregano.
2. Blend until smooth and well combined.
3. With the blender or food processor still running, slowly pour in olive oil through the top.
4. Continue blending until the dressing is emulsified and smooth.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe requires no cooking time, simply blend and serve.
Balsamic Italian Dressing
This classic Italian dressing recipe is a staple for any pasta lover. With its tangy balsamic flavor and rich herbs, it’s the perfect addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine olive oil, balsamic vinegar, white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, oregano, and basil.
2. Blend until smooth and emulsified.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: None! This dressing is ready to use immediately.
Notes:
– Store leftover dressing in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
– Adjust the amount of balsamic vinegar to your desired level of tanginess.
– Use this dressing as a marinade, a dip, or as a topping for pasta salads, pizza, and more!
Spicy Red Pepper Italian Dressing
Add a kick to your salads with this spicy take on traditional Italian dressing. This recipe combines the bold flavors of red peppers, garlic, and herbs for a unique twist.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine olive oil, apple cider vinegar, garlic, parsley, basil, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and red pepper flakes.
2. Blend until smooth and well combined.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None
Sweet Honey Mustard Italian Dressing
A twist on classic Italian dressing, this sweet honey mustard variation adds a touch of warmth and depth to your salads and sandwiches. With its perfect balance of tangy and sweet, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder until smooth.
2. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Use immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Cooking Time: None! This dressing is ready in just a few minutes of whisking.
Tangy Italian Dressing with White Wine Vinegar
This homemade Italian dressing recipe combines the flavors of garlic, mustard, and herbs with a tangy kick from white wine vinegar. Perfect for salads, sandwiches, or as a marinade.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1/4 cup white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, parsley, basil, and garlic until smooth.
2. Add white wine vinegar and whisk until well combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None
This dressing is best served chilled. Use within 5 days of making. Enjoy!
Basil Pesto Italian Dressing
Experience the classic flavors of Italy with this simple and delicious homemade basil pesto Italian dressing recipe. Perfect for salads, sandwiches, or as a dip for your favorite snacks.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1/2 cup pine nuts (or walnuts)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a food processor or blender, combine basil leaves, pine nuts, and garlic. Process until well combined.
2. Add Parmesan cheese and process until smooth.
3. With the processor running, slowly pour in olive oil through the top.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This dressing is ready to use straight away.
Roasted Garlic Italian Dressing
Elevate your salad game with this rich and flavorful homemade Italian dressing infused with the deep sweetness of roasted garlic.
Ingredients:
– 3 heads of garlic, separated into individual cloves
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wrap garlic cloves in foil, drizzle with olive oil, and roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender and mashed.
3. In a blender or food processor, combine roasted garlic, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, oregano, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
4. With the blender or food processor running, slowly add the remaining olive oil through the top. Continue blending until emulsified.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes (roasting) + 5-7 minutes (blending)
Sun-Dried Tomato Italian Dressing
Elevate your salads with this flavorful homemade dressing, featuring the rich taste of sun-dried tomatoes and a hint of Italy.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, Dijon mustard, basil, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None needed! Just blend and serve.
Herb Garden Italian Dressing
Add a burst of fresh flavor to your salads with this easy-to-make Herb Garden Italian Dressing recipe, featuring herbs straight from your garden. This classic dressing gets an upgrade with the addition of fragrant herbs like basil and parsley.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup red wine vinegar
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine red wine vinegar, olive oil, basil, parsley, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper.
2. Blend until smooth and well combined.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Cooking Time: None (ready to use immediately)
Citrus Orange Italian Dressing
This refreshing dressing combines the zesty flavors of citrus and herbs to add a burst of flavor to your salads. Perfect for spring and summer, this recipe is quick and easy to make.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup red wine vinegar
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together red wine vinegar, orange juice, garlic, parsley, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
2. Slowly pour in the olive oil while continuously whisking the mixture until it’s smooth and emulsified.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Mediterranean Italian Dressing with Feta
Elevate your salads and sandwiches with this creamy and tangy Mediterranean Italian dressing featuring crumbled feta cheese. This recipe combines the best of both worlds, blending classic Mediterranean flavors with the richness of Italy.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.
2. Stir in the crumbled feta cheese.
3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Cooking Time: None
Light Italian Dressing with Greek Yogurt
Light Italian Dressing with Greek Yogurt Recipe
This recipe offers a healthier take on traditional Italian dressing by substituting mayonnaise with Greek yogurt, reducing the overall calorie count while maintaining the creamy texture.
Ingredients:
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine Greek yogurt, red wine vinegar, olive oil, garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. Stir in dried oregano.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This dressing is ready to use immediately after preparation.
Serve chilled or at room temperature, garnished with fresh parsley or basil leaves if desired.
Avocado Lime Italian Dressing
This refreshing dressing combines the creaminess of avocado with the brightness of lime and the flavor of Italy, perfect for salads or as a marinade. With its unique twist on traditional Italian dressings, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Peel and pit the avocados and place them in a blender or food processor.
2. Add lime juice, olive oil, garlic, mustard, and oregano to the blender.
3. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Use immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None
Ranch-Style Italian Dressing
Add a creamy twist to classic Italian dressing with this ranch-inspired recipe! This tangy and savory condiment is perfect for salads, sandwiches, or as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons Italian dressing mix (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together buttermilk, mayonnaise, parsley, Dijon mustard, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
2. Add Italian dressing mix and whisk until well combined.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. If desired, stir in Parmesan cheese.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in no time.
Chili Lime Italian Dressing
Elevate your salad game with this unique recipe that combines the bold flavors of chili peppers and lime juice with the rich taste of Italian dressing. This spicy twist is perfect for those who like a little heat in their salad.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup red wine vinegar
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more to taste)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine olive oil, red wine vinegar, lime juice, Dijon mustard, grated ginger, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper.
2. Blend until smooth and well combined.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This dressing is ready in just a few minutes of blending.
Use this spicy Italian dressing on your favorite salads, or as a marinade for grilled meats or vegetables.
Tuscan Herb Italian Dressing
Elevate your salads with this fresh and flavorful Tuscan Herb Italian Dressing recipe, perfect for marinating grilled meats or as a dip for crudités.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup red wine vinegar
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper until well combined.
2. Add olive oil, parsley, basil, oregano, and garlic powder. Whisk until smooth.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: None (ready in 5 minutes)
Rosemary Thyme Italian Dressing
Elevate your salads with this aromatic and flavorful Rosemary Thyme Italian Dressing! This recipe combines the classic flavors of Italy with the earthy notes of rosemary and thyme, creating a unique and delicious dressing perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine olive oil, red wine vinegar, rosemary, and thyme.
2. Whisk until the herbs are well combined and the mixture is smooth.
3. Add Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until fully incorporated.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: None required. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Summary
Looking for delicious and versatile Italian dressing recipes? Look no further! This article presents 20 mouth-watering variations to suit every occasion. From classic combinations with olive oil to zesty lemon and creamy parmesan twists, there’s something for everyone. Spicy red pepper, sweet honey mustard, tangy white wine vinegar, and more – these dressings are perfect for salads, marinades, or as a dip. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just need a quick and easy meal solution, these Italian dressing recipes have got you covered.
