Creating a flavorful and zesty Italian salad dressing is a culinary art that combines fresh herbs, aromatic spices, and premium-quality ingredients. Whether you prefer a classic vinaigrette or a creamy, tangy dressing, the right recipe can transform a simple salad into a delightful and unforgettable dish. In this comprehensive guide, we will embark on a journey to discover the secrets of crafting the best Italian salad dressing, exploring variations, offering expert tips, and providing step-by-step instructions to help you create a dressing that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more.
Here are our top 20 tried and tested recipes!
ITALIAN DRESSING PASTA SALAD
This colorful salad is hearty enough to be a light meal in itself. It's a great make-ahead dish, since the full flavors of the herbs and veggies need a little time to blend. For more tasty ideas, check out these other cold pasta salad recipes.
Provided by Taste of Home
Categories Lunch
Time 1h
Yield 36 servings.
Number Of Ingredients 17
Steps:
- Cook pasta according to package directions. Rinse with cold water; drain well. In two large bowls, combine the California vegetables, tomatoes, zucchini, yellow squash, onion, cheeses and pasta. , In a small bowl, combine the salad dressing, parsley, basil, Italian seasoning, seasoned salt and pepper. Pour over pasta mixture; toss to coat. Stir in olives. Cover and refrigerate for 8 hours or overnight. , Toss before serving. Serve with Romano cheese if desired.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 157 calories, Fat 10g fat (3g saturated fat), Cholesterol 15mg cholesterol, Sodium 405mg sodium, Carbohydrate 11g carbohydrate (2g sugars, Fiber 1g fiber), Protein 5g protein.
COPYCAT ITALIAN SALAD DRESSING
My family prefers the store brand of Italian dressing to any of the name brands. They all pretty much taste the same and have the same ingredients. This is a copycat of their dressing using mostly ingredients from the cabinet most people keep on hand or can find easily. The water makes it stretch a little further for those on a tight budget, but you might also like it without.
Provided by NWMama
Categories Side Dish Sauces and Condiments Recipes Salad Dressing Recipes Italian Dressing
Time 27m
Yield 32
Number Of Ingredients 9
Steps:
- Set oven rack about 6 inches from the heat source and preheat the oven's broiler. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and add red bell pepper.
- Roast red bell pepper under the broiler until slightly blackened, about 12 minutes. Transfer bell pepper to a bowl and cover tightly with plastic wrap for about 10 minutes. Carefully remove plastic wrap and peel skin from bell pepper.
- Blend roasted red pepper, oil, water, vinegar, sugar, basil, lemon juice, minced onion, and salt in a blender until smooth.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 98.2 calories, Carbohydrate 2 g, Fat 10.2 g, Fiber 0.2 g, Protein 0.1 g, SaturatedFat 1.6 g, Sodium 54.9 mg, Sugar 1.7 g
ITALIAN SALAD DRESSING
This is the salad dressing I grew up with that my mom created. As a child, I didn't realize there were any alternatives. To this day, my mom's salad dressing is still a favorite. Very simple to prepare. If you make it a little ahead of time, it will allow the flavors to blend. I hope you enjoy it!
Provided by Bev I Am
Categories Salad Dressings
Time 2m
Yield 1 cup, 4-6 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 8
Steps:
- Combine all ingredients in a bottle.
- Shake to blend.
- Allow flavors to blend about an hour or so, Will even be more flavorful the following day. Be sure to refrigerate any leftovers.
- Makes about 1 cup.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 375.8, Fat 41, SaturatedFat 5.4, Cholesterol 0.4, Sodium 879.6, Carbohydrate 2.6, Fiber 0.1, Sugar 2.2, Protein 0.2
BASIC ITALIAN SALAD DRESSING
This Basic Italian Salad dressing is great for turning mixed greens, steamed broccoli or asparagus spears into a delicious salad.
Provided by Sue Ann Scarcia-Barry
Categories Garlic Herb No-Cook Quick & Easy Salad Dressing Bon Appétit Pennsylvania
Yield Makes about 1/2 cup
Number Of Ingredients 8
Steps:
- Combine all ingredients in small bowl and whisk to blend. Season to taste with salt and pepper. (Can be prepared 1 day ahead. Cover and refrigerate.)
ITALIAN HERB SALAD DRESSING
Steps:
- Place all ingredients in a jar with a tight-fitting lid; shake well. Refrigerate until serving. Shake dressing again just before serving.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 150 calories, Fat 16g fat (2g saturated fat), Cholesterol 0 cholesterol, Sodium 127mg sodium, Carbohydrate 1g carbohydrate (0 sugars, Fiber 0 fiber), Protein 0 protein. Diabetic Exchanges
ROMAINE SALAD WITH CHOICE OF RASPBERRY VINAIGRETTE OR CREAMY ITALIAN DRESSING
Provided by Robert Irvine : Food Network
Categories appetizer
Time 35m
Yield 8 to 12 servings
Number Of Ingredients 21
Steps:
- For the raspberry vinaigrette:
- Add the vinegar to a blender, replace the lid, turn it on, and through the feed opening, add, 1 at a time, the shallot, black pepper, salt, mustard, and thyme. Then leaving the blender running, add the olive oil in a slow thin stream.
- Wash and dry the blender to have it ready to prepare the other dressing.
- For the creamy Italian dressing:
- Add the vinegar to a blender, replace the lid, turn it on, and through the feed opening, add, 1 at a time, the garlic, black pepper, salt, red pepper, and Parmesan. Then leaving the blender running, add the olive oil in a slow thin stream.
- For the salad, toss the lettuce, red onion, sweet onion, tomatoes, Parmesan, and parsley together in a large bowl. Top with croutons, and serve the dressings on the side.
HOMEMADE ITALIAN SALAD DRESSING
Make and share this Homemade Italian Salad Dressing recipe from Food.com.
Provided by Darlene Summers
Categories Salad Dressings
Time 10m
Yield 1 1/3 Cups, 4 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 8
Steps:
- Combine all ingredients in a jar with a lid; cover and shake to mix thoroughly.
- Let stand at least 2 hours to blend seasonings.
- Shake well before using.
- Wonderful on Italian lettuce salad.
CORN SALAD WITH CREAMY ITALIAN DRESSING
Simple deliciousness, that's what this is. This corn salad recipe is one of my favorite summer side dishes. It's a perfect complement to just about any meat you pull off the grill, and can be dressed in countless ways. Serve at room temperature.
Provided by Chef John
Categories Salad Vegetable Salad Recipes Corn Salad Recipes
Time 8h35m
Yield 6
Number Of Ingredients 16
Steps:
- Whisk mayonnaise, vinegar, 1/4 cup olive oil, garlic, water, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, sugar, 1/4 teaspoon salt, Italian seasoning, and a pinch cayenne pepper together in a bowl until dressing is thick and creamy. Cover dressing with plastic wrap and refrigerate, 8 hours or overnight.
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook and stir corn in hot oil until light golden brown and toasted, about 15 minutes.
- Mix corn and red pepper together in a bowl. Pour enough dressing over corn mixture to coat completely. Season with salt and black pepper.
- Stir basil and a pinch cayenne pepper into corn mixture; toss.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 314.1 calories, Carbohydrate 19.4 g, Cholesterol 7 mg, Fat 26.6 g, Fiber 2.1 g, Protein 3 g, SaturatedFat 3.9 g, Sodium 333.1 mg, Sugar 4.1 g
ITALIAN VEGETABLE SALAD WITH CREAMY GARLIC DRESSING
Provided by Kay Chun
Categories Salad Blender Garlic Side Quick & Easy Dinner Asparagus Cauliflower Fennel Anchovy Gourmet Sugar Conscious Kidney Friendly Pescatarian Dairy Free Wheat/Gluten-Free Peanut Free Tree Nut Free Soy Free No Sugar Added Kosher
Yield Makes 8 servings
Number Of Ingredients 9
Steps:
- Trim fennel (reserving fronds) and remove tough outer layer. Thinly slice fennel crosswise and cauliflower lengthwise (1/8 inch). Slice asparagus on a diagonal (1/8 inch). Combine vegetables in a large bowl.
- Purée yolks, garlic, anchovies, mustard, lemon juice, and 1/4 teaspoon each of salt and pepper in a blender. With motor running, add oil in a slow stream, blending until dressing is thick and emulsified.
- Toss vegetables with enough dressing to coat. Season with salt. Sprinkle with fennel fronds.
- What to drink:
- Fontaleoni Vernaccia di San Gimignano '07
CREAMY ITALIAN SALAD DRESSING
Make and share this Creamy Italian Salad Dressing recipe from Food.com.
Provided by Marie
Categories Salad Dressings
Time 5m
Yield 2-3 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 7
Steps:
- Place all ingredients in blender and mix on high for about 30 seconds.
LOW FAT CREAMY ITALIAN SALAD DRESSING
I had to bring a creamy salad to my exercise class party that was low fat, and this is what I managed to come up with. It came out great, if I do say so myself!
Provided by Mirj2338
Categories Salad Dressings
Time 5m
Yield 1 1/4 cups, 16 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 10
Steps:
- In a blender or food processor, process all ingredients except sour cream until completely mixed.
- Add sour cream and process just until mixed.
MAMA'S ITALIAN SALAD DRESSING
This is a very tasty Homemade Italian Salad Dressing. I don't know where my Mama got it, but I grew up loving it! I still make it for my Family and they ask for it on their salads!We like it for marinade also.
Provided by BB502
Categories Salad Dressings
Time 10m
Yield 3 Cups
Number Of Ingredients 11
Steps:
- Put all ingredients into a jar and shake well.
- Chill.
- Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts : Calories 944.3, Fat 91.2, SaturatedFat 11.8, Sodium 984.6, Carbohydrate 35.1, Fiber 1, Sugar 30.6, Protein 1.5
SPAGHETTI SALAD WITH ITALIAN DRESSING
THIS salad is surprisingly flavorful and light, a refreshing change from a mayonnaise-based dressing. There is a nice contrast of textures and it's very easy to make. It can be adjusted to the number of people served.
Provided by Taste of Home
Categories Lunch
Time 20m
Yield 2 servings.
Number Of Ingredients 7
Steps:
- Cook pasta according to package directions; drain and rinse in cold water. Place pasta in a bowl; add tomato, mushrooms, olives, onion and garlic. Add dressing and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate until serving.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 344 calories, Fat 13g fat (2g saturated fat), Cholesterol 0 cholesterol, Sodium 587mg sodium, Carbohydrate 48g carbohydrate (5g sugars, Fiber 3g fiber), Protein 8g protein.
LITE ITALIAN SALAD DRESSING
A refreshing, light dressing made from scratch that is great on any tossed salad or pasta salad!
Provided by Lillian
Categories Side Dish Sauces and Condiments Recipes Salad Dressing Recipes Italian Dressing
Time 5m
Yield 10
Number Of Ingredients 7
Steps:
- Whisk together the vinegar, olive oil, corn oil, salt, sugar, pepper, and oregano in a bowl.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 207.8 calories, Carbohydrate 1.4 g, Fat 22.5 g, SaturatedFat 3 g, Sodium 233.2 mg, Sugar 1.3 g
ANTHONY'S HOUSE SALAD WITH ITALIAN DRESSING
From one of my favorite local restaurants. Adding 1/2-1 lb of diced smoked turkey breast to the salad mix turns this into a nice light lunch on it's own.
Provided by littleturtle
Categories Lunch/Snacks
Time 15m
Yield 8 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 12
Steps:
- Whisk together olive oil, vinegar, mustard, garlic, pepper, and salt until well blended; fold in cheese.
- Break the leaves off of both heads of lettuce, tear them by hand; wash and drain.
- In a large wooden bowl, toss lettuce with shredded carrots and cabbage.
- Garnish with croutons and top with dressing to taste.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 364.1, Fat 34.9, SaturatedFat 6.9, Cholesterol 10.6, Sodium 277.8, Carbohydrate 9.2, Fiber 3.4, Sugar 3.5, Protein 5.4
ITALIAN SALAD DRESSING RECIPE BY TASTY
Here's what you need: garlic, fresh oregano, fresh parsley, fresh basil, salt, freshly ground black pepper, white wine vinegar, extra virgin olive oil
Provided by Matthew Johnson
Time 30m
Yield 16 servings
Number Of Ingredients 8
Steps:
- Add the ingredients into a mason jar. Screw the lid on tightly and shake vigorously.
- The dressing can remain in the fridge for 1-2 weeks.
- Pour over your favorite salad ingredients and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts : Calories 119 calories, Carbohydrate 0 grams, Fat 13 grams, Fiber 0 grams, Protein 0 grams, Sugar 0 grams
FRENCH-ITALIAN SALAD DRESSING MIX
Okay, there is Italian Salad Dressing and then there is French Salad Dressing. This mix combines both for a wonderful unique result. This recipe come from more Make a Mix Cookery Cookbook, 1980 vintage.
Provided by PaulaG
Categories European
Time 5h30m
Yield 1 1/4 cups
Number Of Ingredients 11
Steps:
- Mix all the dry ingredients together.
- Keep in airtight package until ready to use (The dressing is intended so that you can make several "packets" to keep on hand. The "packet" refers to one recipe of the seasoning mix)
- Can be stored for up to 6 months.
- When salad dressing is needed, combine 1 packet of mix with oil, viegar and ketchup in a blender at high speed for about 7 seconds.
- Pour into a 2-cup container with tight fitting lid and allow to stand at room temperature for about 5 hours.
- Refrigerate 30 minutes before serving.
- Pour over salad and enjoy.
QUICK ITALIAN SALAD DRESSING
As a diabetic who likes salads, I was tired of plain vinegar and oil topping the greens. So I came up with this tongue-tingling dressing.-George Greenauer, Spencerport, New York
Provided by Taste of Home
Categories Lunch
Time 10m
Yield 2/3 cup.
Number Of Ingredients 9
Steps:
- Combine all ingredients in a jar with a tight-fitting lid; shake well. Refrigerate overnight.
Nutrition Facts :
SALAD BAR SALAD WITH CREAMY ITALIAN DRESSING
Provided by Ree Drummond : Food Network
Categories side-dish
Time 2h15m
Yield 6 to 8 servings
Number Of Ingredients 16
Steps:
- For the dressing: Mince the garlic with a knife and then sprinkle about 1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon of salt on it and mash it into a paste with a fork. Chop the parsley, chives and basil very finely and add to the garlic.
- In a bowl, combine the garlic mixture, mayonnaise, sour cream, Parmesan, cayenne, paprika and Worcestershire, tasting frequently and adjusting the seasonings as needed. Chill for a couple of hours before serving. Thin with a little milk before using if desired.
- For the salad: To assemble, layer chunks of the iceberg lettuce on a platter. In lines, lay on the grated cheese, shredded carrots and cucumber slices, and sprinkle the sunflower seeds over the top. Drizzle on the dressing and serve.
ITALIAN BALSAMIC SALAD DRESSING
My wife brought home a tremendous dressing from a deli by her work. I tried numerous times and finally was able to duplicate the taste. This is an incredible dressing. Lots of requests for it from the family and it is healthy!
Provided by Fresh Ingredient Ch
Categories Salad Dressings
Time 10m
Yield 4 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 7
Steps:
- Place all ingredients in a small bowl or blender.
- Blend well using a blender or hand blender.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate.
Tips: Dressing Up Your Italian Salad
- Fresh Ingredients: The key to a great Italian dressing is fresh, high-quality ingredients. Use extra-virgin olive oil, fresh herbs, and tangy vinegar for the best flavor.
- Balance of Flavors: Italian dressing should have a balance of sweet, sour, and savory flavors. Adjust the proportions of oil, vinegar, and honey or sugar to suit your taste.
- Emulsify the Dressing: To make a smooth and creamy dressing, whisk the oil and vinegar vigorously until they are well blended. You can also use a blender or food processor to emulsify the dressing.
- Season to Taste: Always taste your salad dressing before serving and adjust the seasonings as needed. Add salt, pepper, and herbs until the dressing is flavorful and balanced.
- Let the Dressing Marinate: If you have time, let the dressing marinate for at least 30 minutes before using. This will allow the flavors to meld and develop.
Conclusion: A Versatile Dressing for Any Occasion
Italian dressing is a versatile condiment that can be used on a variety of salads, from simple green salads to hearty pasta salads. It is also a great marinade for chicken, fish, and vegetables. With its bright, tangy flavor, Italian dressing is a surefire way to add some zest to your meals. So next time you're making a salad, give Italian dressing a try. You'll be glad you did!
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