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This homemade Italian dressing is fresh, zesty, and packed with flavor. Made with red wine vinegar, olive oil, and simple pantry ingredients, it’s the perfect way to elevate any salad. If you’ve been relying on bottled dressing or seasoning packets, this recipe will change your mind. It takes just minutes to mix together and tastes far better than anything from the store.
Drizzle this Italian salad dressing over Italian Pasta Salad, use it as a marinade for Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs, or toss it with green salad for a burst of flavor.
Why you’ll love this homemade Italian salad dressing recipe!
Making homemade dressing is incredibly easy, and the results are so much fresher than store-bought versions.
This dressing combines tangy red wine vinegar with rich olive oil and savory Italian flavors for a bright, balanced vinaigrette. It’s perfect for everything from simple side salads to hearty pasta salads.
Once you start making your own Italian salad dressing, you may never go back to bottled dressing again!
- Ready in minutes: Just whisk the ingredients together.
- Fresh flavor: Much brighter and more flavorful than bottled dressing.
- Simple ingredients: Made with pantry staples.
- Versatile: Use on salads, pasta salad, or as a marinade.
- Easy to store: Keeps well in the fridge for several days.
Table of Contents
Ingredient Notes
The complete ingredient list and measurements are in the recipe card below.
- Olive oil – Forms the rich base of the dressing.
- Red wine vinegar – Adds tangy flavor and balances the oil.
- Red pepper flakes – Optional, but adds a little heat and extra flavor.
- Parmesan cheese – Freshly grated parmesan gives the dressing a savory boost.
- Salt and black pepper – Season to taste.
Variations
- Add fresh herbs. Try parsley, basil, or oregano for extra flavor.
- Make it creamy. Whisk in a spoonful of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt.
- Add garlic. Fresh minced garlic adds bold flavor.
- Use lemon juice. Replace part of the vinegar with lemon juice for a brighter dressing.
How to Make Homemade Italian Dressing
- Mix the Seasonings. Add the parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to a small bowl.
- Add the Vinegar and Oil. Whisk in the red wine vinegar and olive oil until the dressing is fully combined.
- Transfer to a Jar. Pour the dressing into a jar with a lid.
- Chill. Refrigerate the dressing for about 2 hours to allow the flavors to develop. Shake well before serving.
Ways to Use Italian Salad Dressing
This homemade dressing is incredibly versatile.
- Toss with a fresh green salad
- Use as a marinade for grilled chicken
- Drizzle over roasted vegetables
- Add to pasta salad
- Serve with chopped vegetable salads
How to Store
Store the dressing in an airtight container or jar in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Shake well before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Oil and vinegar naturally separate when they sit. Simply shake or whisk the dressing before serving to recombine the ingredients.
Yes! This dressing works wonderfully as a marinade for chicken, steak, or vegetables.
Freezing is not recommended because the oil and vinegar will separate and change texture when thawed.
Stored properly in the refrigerator, homemade Italian dressing will stay fresh for about 5 to 7 days.
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Homemade Italian Dressing
Ingredients
- ¾ cup olive oil
- ¼ cup red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon italian seasoning homemade or store bought
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- 2 tablespoons fresh parmesan cheese finely grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix seasonings and cheese
- Slowly whisk in vinegar and oil until well combined
- Transfer dressing to jar with a lid
- Chill for at least 2 hours before using
- Store in refrigerator
Notes
- Use good-quality olive oil for the best flavor.
- Freshly grated parmesan tastes best in this dressing.
- Shake well before each use.
- Adjust the vinegar and oil ratio to suit your taste.
This is my go-to homemade dressing recipe!