Italian Dressing Recipe

Olive oil: Provides a rich and smooth base for the dressing.

Red wine vinegar: Adds a tangy and slightly sweet flavor.

Dijon mustard: Gives a subtle spiciness and helps emulsify the dressing.

Garlic powder: Infuses the dressing with a mild garlic flavor.

Dried oregano: Brings a classic Italian herb taste.

Salt: Enhances all the flavors in the dressing.

Black pepper: Adds a hint of heat and depth.

When making this Italian dressing, ensure to slowly drizzle the olive oil into the red wine vinegar mixture while whisking continuously. This technique helps to emulsify the dressing, creating a smooth and well-blended consistency.

• olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar mild flavor and healthy fat profile, making it a good alternative.

• red wine vinegar - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar provides a similar tangy acidity and can be used in the same quantity.

• dijon mustard - Substitute with whole grain mustard: Whole grain mustard has a similar flavor profile and adds a bit of texture to the dressing.

• garlic powder - Substitute with fresh minced garlic: Fresh minced garlic offers a more intense and aromatic garlic flavor.

• dried oregano - Substitute with dried basil: Dried basil provides a different but complementary herbal note that works well in dressings.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a salty and umami flavor, but use it sparingly to avoid overpowering the dressing.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a slightly different flavor but still provides a peppery kick without altering the color of the dressing.

• To store your freshly made Italian dressing, pour it into a clean, airtight jar or container. This helps maintain its freshness and prevents any unwanted flavors from seeping in.

• Place the jar in the refrigerator. The dressing will keep well for up to one week, allowing you to enjoy it over multiple meals.

• Before each use, give the jar a good shake. This ensures that the olive oil and red wine vinegar are well mixed, as they can separate over time.

• If you notice any changes in smell, color, or texture, it's best to discard the dressing. Freshness is key to maintaining the delightful flavors of your Italian dressing.

• For longer storage, consider freezing the dressing. Pour it into an ice cube tray, allowing you to defrost just the amount you need. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer-safe bag or container.

• When you're ready to use the frozen dressing, simply thaw the desired number of cubes in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.

• Remember, freezing may slightly alter the texture of the dressing, but a good whisk or shake should bring it back to its original consistency.

• Avoid storing the dressing in direct sunlight or near heat sources, as this can cause the olive oil to go rancid more quickly.

• Always use clean utensils when scooping out the dressing to prevent contamination and extend its shelf life.

• If you prefer a smoother dressing, you can blend the ingredients in a blender before storing. This can help emulsify the olive oil and red wine vinegar more thoroughly.

• Gently whisk the Italian dressing to re-emulsify the olive oil and red wine vinegar before using.
• If the dressing has solidified in the refrigerator, let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes. This will allow the olive oil to liquefy again.
• For a quicker method, place the jar of Italian dressing in a bowl of warm water for a few minutes. This will gently warm the dressing without cooking it.
• Avoid microwaving the dressing, as this can alter the flavor and texture of the olive oil and other ingredients.
• Once the dressing has reached the desired consistency, give it a good shake or whisk to ensure all ingredients are well combined before serving.

• Whisk: A whisk is essential for combining the ingredients smoothly and ensuring the dressing is well emulsified.

• Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is needed to hold all the ingredients while you whisk them together.

• Measuring cups: Measuring cups are used to accurately measure the olive oil and red wine vinegar.

• Measuring spoons: Measuring spoons are necessary for measuring the dijon mustard, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.

• Jar with lid: A jar with a lid is ideal for storing the dressing in the refrigerator and for easy shaking before each use.

Pre-mix the dry ingredients: Combine garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper in advance and store in a small container.

Use a blender: Blend all ingredients together for a smoother consistency and faster preparation.

Double the batch: Make a larger quantity and store in the refrigerator to save time on future salads.

Pre-measure the liquids: Measure out the olive oil, red wine vinegar, and dijon mustard ahead of time and store in small jars.