Are you craving that zesty, vibrant Italian dressing but tired of store-bought versions packed with preservatives and artificial flavors? Then you're in the right place! This recipe teaches you how to make your own delicious Italian dressing mix, a perfect copycat of the beloved Good Seasons brand. It's incredibly easy, customizable, and allows you to control the ingredients, making it a healthier and more flavorful option for your salads and marinades. This homemade Italian dressing mix is a fantastic addition to your arsenal of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas, perfect for busy weeknights. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup dried oregano
- 1/4 cup dried basil
- 2 tablespoons dried parsley
- 2 tablespoons garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons onion powder
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
Instructions:
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Combine the Spices: In a medium-sized bowl, combine all the dried herbs and spices: oregano, basil, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix them thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
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Store Your Mix: Transfer the homemade Italian dressing mix to an airtight container. A mason jar or a spice jar works perfectly. Label it clearly and store it in a cool, dark, and dry place. This will keep your mix fresh for several months.
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Making the Dressing: When you're ready to make the dressing, simply combine 2 tablespoons of your homemade mix with 1/2 cup of your favorite oil (olive oil is classic, but avocado oil works well too) and 1/4 cup of vinegar (red wine vinegar or white wine vinegar are great choices). Whisk vigorously until the mix is fully dissolved and the dressing is emulsified. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed – you might want to add a little more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes to your liking.
Tips and Variations:
- Adjust the Heat: Control the spice level by adjusting the amount of red pepper flakes. Omit them entirely for a milder dressing or add more for a spicier kick.
- Fresh Herbs: For an even more intense flavor, add 1-2 tablespoons of fresh chopped herbs like oregano, basil, or parsley along with the dried herbs.
- Lemon Zest: A teaspoon of lemon zest adds a bright citrus note to your dressing.
- Different Oils and Vinegars: Experiment with different oils and vinegars to create unique flavor profiles. Try using a combination of oils, such as olive oil and walnut oil, or experiment with apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar.
- Homemade is Best: Making your own Italian dressing mix ensures you control the quality of ingredients and avoid unnecessary additives. This leads to a healthier and more delicious outcome.
Nutritional Information (per 2 tablespoons of mix):
This information is an approximation and will vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 20
- Fat: Less than 1g
- Sodium: Approximately 150mg
This homemade Italian dressing mix is a versatile and delicious addition to your pantry. It’s perfect for tossing salads, marinating chicken or vegetables, or even as a flavorful dipping sauce for bread. Enjoy the convenience and incredible flavor of this easy-to-make, healthy, and delicious recipe! It’s a simple yet satisfying way to elevate your homemade cooking. Adding this easy recipe to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas will save you time and consistently deliver flavorful, healthy meals. You’ll wonder why you ever bought store-bought dressing again!