Zesty Homemade Italian Dressing Recipe

If you’re craving that perfect balance of tangy, herby, and slightly garlicky goodness, this homemade Italian dressing is a must-try. It’s light, versatile, and so much fresher than anything you’ll find in a bottle. Whether you’re tossing it with crisp greens, drizzling it over roasted veggies, or using it as a marinade, this recipe is going to be your new go-to.

I first made this dressing when I ran out of the store-bought kind one night before dinner. With just a few pantry staples, I whipped up something that was even better than what I was used to. Now, I’ll never go back to the bottled stuff—it’s that good!

A glass jar of homemade Italian dressing with herbs sits on a wooden table beside a spoon, with a fresh green salad in the background.

Your Grocery List

  • Olive oil (1/2 cup)
  • Red wine vinegar (1/4 cup)
  • Fresh garlic (1 clove, minced)
  • Dried oregano (1 teaspoon)
  • Dried basil (1 teaspoon)
  • Dijon mustard (1 teaspoon)
  • Honey or sugar (1 teaspoon, optional)
  • Salt and pepper (to taste)
  • Water (1–2 tablespoons, optional for a thinner consistency)

Why Make Your Own Italian Dressing?

Homemade dressing is free of preservatives and unnecessary additives, making it healthier and tastier. Plus, you can adjust the ingredients to match your preferences—extra garlic, more herbs, or a little sweetness, it’s all up to you!

The Key to Emulsifying Your Dressing

To create that perfect creamy texture where the oil and vinegar don’t separate, add Dijon mustard and whisk vigorously. If you’re in a rush, shake everything in a mason jar—it’s quick, mess-free, and makes storing leftovers a breeze!

Make It Even Better

For an extra kick, try adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of lemon juice. You can also swap the red wine vinegar for white wine or balsamic vinegar for a unique twist. If you want a creamier version, blend in a tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese.

Pairing Ideas

What Kind of Pizza Goes Well with Italian Dressing?

Pair this dressing with a simple garden salad served alongside a classic pepperoni pizza for a perfectly balanced meal.

Drink Pairings

Enjoy with a crisp iced tea or a refreshing glass of chilled Pinot Grigio for a summer-ready combo.

Dessert Pairings

Finish your meal with a light and fruity dessert like lemon sorbet or a fresh berry parfait to keep things bright and zesty.

Storage Tips

Store your dressing in an airtight container, like a mason jar, in the refrigerator for up to a week. If the oil solidifies when chilled, just let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before shaking or whisking to bring it back to life.

Recipe Timing

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Total Time: 5 minutes

Fun Facts

Did you know Italian dressing isn’t actually from Italy? It’s an American creation inspired by the flavors of Italian cuisine!

Allergen Warnings

This recipe is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free. For a vegan option, use sugar instead of honey.

A delicious slice of cheese pizzaPizza fresh from the ovenA mouthwatering pizza close-upAnother irresistible slice of pizza

Homemade Italian Dressing

A zesty, tangy homemade Italian dressing that’s fresher and tastier than store-bought, perfect for salads, marinades, and more!
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Course Condiment
Cuisine Italian-American
Servings 6 servings
Calories 120 kcal

Equipment

  • Whisk
  • Mason jar or small bowl

Ingredients
  

  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
  • 1 clove fresh garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon honey (or sugar, optional)
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 1–2 tablespoons water (optional, for thinner consistency)

Instructions
 

  • In a mason jar or small mixing bowl, combine olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, Dijon mustard, and honey (if using).
  • Whisk vigorously or seal the jar and shake well until the ingredients are fully combined and emulsified.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or additional honey as needed. If the dressing is too thick, whisk in 1–2 tablespoons of water to reach desired consistency.
  • Serve immediately or store in the refrigerator for up to one week. Shake or whisk again before each use.

Notes

For a creamier dressing, add a tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese. Try swapping red wine vinegar for balsamic or white wine vinegar for a flavor twist!
Keyword Homemade Condiment, Italian Dressing, Salad Dressing
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