Authentic Italian Dressing Mix Recipe: A Flavorful Blend for Easy Homemade Dressings
When I think of Italian cuisine, I think of simplicity, diversity, and the use of fresh ingredients. Italian dishes focus on enhancing the natural flavors of high-quality ingredients rather than complex techniques. Which I love. So, when I see Italian dressing seasoning packets in little bags on the store shelves, I cringe.
The quality of the ingredients in those packets and length of time they’ve been on the store shelves are all questionable.
Quality herbs are incredibly important to all cooking, not just Italian, because they have the power to transform a dish into a flavorful masterpiece. They add depth, aroma, and a fresh taste that truly elevates the overall culinary experience.
Creating an Italian dressing mix at home allows you to enjoy the flavor of classic Italian dressing without having to purchase a pre-made and often overly-processed options from the store. This easy-to-make mix uses all natural ingredients that you can find in your cupboard and ensures the flavor of your finished dressing will stand out from those of store-bought varieties.
Using a classic Italian dressing mix at home allows you to control the flavor and texture of your dressing more accurately.
You can adjust the proportions and the amount of spices you add to your mix to create your own signature flavor. You can also substitute other types of seasonings and herbs to tailor the blend to your own tastes. If you plan ahead, you can make a large batch of the mix to have on hand for whenever you want to make Italian dressing.
Having a homemade Italian dressing mix on hand at home is especially beneficial if you strive to keep your house stocked with simple, clean ingredients. Making your own dressing is a great way to reduce the number of processed foods and ingredients you consume on a daily basis. The ingredients in this mix are all simple, natural, and easy to find, and the mix can be stored for up to three months.
Common questions about Italian dressing mix
What is the best oil to use when taking the mix and making dressing?
For the most authentic flavor, Extra Virgin Olive Oil is the best oil to use in an Italian dressing mix. It has a robust flavor and a rich texture that complements the other ingredients in the mix. You can also use other types of oil if you prefer, such as avocado or a light tasting olive oil if the flavor is too heavy.
How do I make this dry mix into Italian Dressing
Add together 1/4 cup red wine vinegar, 3 Tbsp water, 2 Tbsp Italian Dressing Mix, 1 tsp dijon mustard. Add in 1/3 cup olive oil. Place lid on firmly and shake vigorously. Store in container for up to a month in the fridge.
How long will the Italian dressing mix last?
The dry mix can be stored in a container, I prefer a glass mason jar, for up to four months in a cool dry place.
Where to purchase the best quality organic herbs
If you’re looking for the highest quality spices and herbs to make your Italian dressing mix, Mountain Rose Herbs is an excellent source.
This website has the largest selection of organic and non-GMO herbs and spices, so you’ll be sure to find everything you need for your mix.
Additionally, I have several blog posts on how to grow and dry your own herbs if you want to take your Italian dressing mix to the next level. Growing your own herbs can provide you with an even more flavorful experience, and you can be sure that everything you include in your mix is all natural and pesticide-free.
Italian Dressing Mix Recipe
A versatile blend of herbs and spices make up this high quality Italian dressing mix.
Ingredients
- 4 Tbsp dried oregano
- 4 Tbsp large flake salt
- 3 Tbsp dried parsley
- 2 Tbsp garlic salt
- 2 Tbsp onion powder
- 2 Tbsp white sugar
- 2 tsp fresh ground black pepper
- 2 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp celery salt
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1/4 tsp paprika
Instructions
- Place all ingredients into a pint mason jar, screw lid into place and shake well.
- Reshake before each use to make sure all ingredients are distriuted evenly. Smaller ingredients tend to sift to the bottom over time.
- Sprinkle on veggies, meats, etc. Or, make into a dressing and store in the fridge for up to one month.
