Description
This Olive Garden Italian Dressing recipe is a quick and easy homemade version of the classic, flavorful Italian dressing. Made with olive oil, white wine vinegar, garlic, Italian seasoning, lemon juice, Parmesan cheese, and a touch of honey, this dressing brings vibrant, zesty flavors to salads or as a marinade. Ready in just 5 minutes, it can be enjoyed immediately or stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Ingredients
Scale
Italian Dressing Ingredients
- ½ cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
- 1 garlic clove (finely minced)
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice (from 1 lemon)
- 3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 teaspoons honey (optional)
- Salt (to taste)
Instructions
- Combine ingredients: In a 16-ounce mason jar, add the olive oil, white wine vinegar, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, lemon juice, grated Parmesan cheese, honey if using, and salt to taste.
- Mix well: Seal the jar tightly and shake vigorously until all ingredients are well combined and the dressing has emulsified. Alternatively, you can transfer the ingredients to a high-speed blender or food processor and blend for 10-20 seconds until smooth and evenly mixed.
- Use or store: Use the dressing immediately on your favorite salad or refrigerate it in the jar for up to 1 week. When ready to use from the fridge, bring it to room temperature for 5-10 minutes and shake well before serving to remix the ingredients.
Notes
- For best flavor, mince the garlic finely to avoid large chunks in the dressing.
- The honey is optional but helps balance the acidity and adds a slight sweetness.
- You can customize the Italian seasoning blend with dried oregano, basil, thyme, rosemary, and parsley.
- Store the dressing in a sealed container in the refrigerator and always shake before use as ingredients may separate.
- If creamy dressing is preferred, adding a bit more Parmesan cheese or a teaspoon of mayonnaise can enhance texture.
