Homemade Italian dressing is a quick and easy way to add a burst of flavor to your salads, marinades, and roasted vegetables. This healthy version uses wholesome ingredients and gives you the flexibility to customize the flavors and sweetness to your liking. It takes just 5–10 minutes to prepare and is far better than store-bought alternatives.
Base Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar (or white wine vinegar)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 garlic clove, finely minced (or 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon honey or sweetener of choice (optional, for a balanced flavor)
- 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thinning)
Sweetness Options:
- Classic Flavor:
- Skip the sweetener for a tangy, savory dressing that complements robust Italian flavors.
- Balanced Sweetness:
- Add 1/2 teaspoon honey or maple syrup for a subtle sweetness to balance the acidity of the vinegar.
- Sugar-Free Option:
- Add a pinch of stevia, monk fruit sweetener, or erythritol for a low-calorie sweetness.
Instructions:
- Mix Ingredients:
Add the olive oil, vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic, dried herbs, onion powder, salt, pepper, and your chosen sweetener to a small bowl or mason jar. - Whisk or Shake:
Whisk the ingredients together until emulsified, or seal the jar and shake vigorously. - Taste and Adjust:
Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning, vinegar, or sweetness to your preference. - Store:
Pour the dressing into a clean glass jar or bottle. Store in the refrigerator for up to one week. Shake well before each use, as separation may occur.
Tips for Customization:
- Make it Creamy: Add 1–2 tablespoons of Greek yogurt or mayonnaise for a creamy Italian dressing.
- Herb Boost: Use fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or oregano for an extra burst of flavor.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Zest it Up: Add lemon or orange zest for a brighter, citrusy note.
- Thin it Out: Add more water or olive oil for a lighter consistency.
Approximate Nutritional Facts (per 1 tablespoon / 15 ml):
- Calories: ~45 kcal
- Total Fat: ~4.5 g
- Saturated Fat: ~0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: ~0.5 g
- Protein: ~0.1 g
- Sodium: ~70 mg
- Potassium: ~10 mg
Note: Nutritional values may vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients used.
Enjoy your homemade Italian dressing!
This versatile dressing is perfect for drizzling over fresh greens, marinating chicken, or adding flavor to roasted vegetables. Customize it to your taste and enjoy the fresh, zesty flavors!
Call to Action
Discover more ways to make healthy, delicious meals at home. Contact us today for personalized nutrition and fitness plans tailored to your lifestyle!
COMMUNITY
