Description
Homemade Zesty Italian Salad Dressing is a fresh, vibrant blend of olive oil, apple cider vinegar, garlic, herbs, and Parmesan—perfect for salads, pasta, veggies, and marinades. Better than bottled!
Ingredients
1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning (oregano, basil, thyme)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional)
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Pinch red pepper flakes (optional)
1–2 teaspoons honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
Instructions
1. Add all ingredients to a mason jar or mixing bowl.
2. Seal the jar or use a whisk to thoroughly mix until emulsified and smooth.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning: more vinegar for tang, more honey for sweetness, more herbs for flavor.
4. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
5. Shake or whisk before serving.
Notes
For a vegan version, omit Parmesan or substitute nutritional yeast.
To make it dairy-free, skip the cheese.
This dressing also works great as a marinade for chicken or roasted vegetables.
Use high-quality olive oil and vinegar for the best flavor.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dressings & Sauces
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 164
- Sugar: 0.1g
- Sodium: 49.1mg
- Fat: 18.7g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16.7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0.4g
- Fiber: 0.1g
- Protein: 0.1g
- Cholesterol: 11mg
Keywords: homemade italian dressing, zesty italian salad dressing, vinaigrette, easy salad dressing