Are you craving that zesty, tangy Italian dressing that perfectly complements your favorite salads and marinades? Look no further! This copycat Wishbone Italian dressing recipe brings the restaurant-quality taste right to your kitchen. It's surprisingly easy to make, using simple ingredients you probably already have. Get ready to elevate your salads and other dishes with this delicious homemade dressing – a true testament to the magic of simple, healthy meals. This recipe is perfect for those seeking quick dinner ideas and effortless homemade cooking.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup extra virgin olive oil
- ½ cup red wine vinegar
- ¼ cup water
- 2 tablespoons sugar (or to taste, adjust for sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
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Combine Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, and water until well combined. This is a crucial step in emulsification, ensuring a smooth dressing.
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Add Spices: Add the sugar, oregano, basil, garlic powder, onion powder, parsley, salt, and pepper. Whisk vigorously until the sugar is completely dissolved and the spices are evenly distributed throughout the dressing.
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Taste and Adjust: Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add more sugar for extra sweetness, vinegar for more tang, or salt and pepper for a bolder flavor. This is where you can truly personalize the recipe to your liking.
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Store and Serve: Transfer the dressing to an airtight container or bottle. Store it in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Give it a good shake before each use to ensure the ingredients are well mixed.
Tips for the Best Italian Dressing:
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Fresh Herbs: For an even more vibrant flavor, consider using fresh herbs instead of dried. Use approximately 1 tablespoon of each fresh herb, chopped finely.
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Citrus Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest for a brighter, more complex flavor profile.
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Garlic Lover's Tip: For a stronger garlic taste, add a minced clove of fresh garlic along with the powdered garlic.
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Make it Creamy: For a creamier dressing, whisk in 1-2 tablespoons of mayonnaise or sour cream. This is a great variation for those who prefer a richer dressing.
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Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
Variations:
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Light Italian Dressing: Reduce the amount of olive oil to make a lighter version.
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Roasted Garlic Italian Dressing: Use roasted garlic for a smoother, sweeter garlic flavor.
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Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, rosemary, or marjoram.
Nutritional Information (per 2 tablespoons):
- Calories: Approximately 150
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 0g
This delicious and easy-to-make Copycat Wishbone Italian Dressing is perfect for any occasion. It's a versatile addition to your pantry, enhancing your favorite salads and adding a flavorful touch to marinades, vegetables, and more. Enjoy this simple homemade recipe as part of your healthy meal plan. It truly showcases the joy of simple, delicious dishes and effortless homemade cooking – best recipes made easy!