Tired of store-bought dressings packed with unnecessary additives and unhealthy oils? Craving a vibrant, flavorful dressing that complements your favorite salads and vegetables? Then look no further! This homemade lite Italian dressing recipe is incredibly easy, uses fresh ingredients, and is a perfect example of delicious and healthy food recipes. It's the perfect addition to your quick dinner ideas repertoire, and a great way to elevate your homemade cooking. Get ready to experience the best recipes for a healthy and satisfying meal!
Ingredients:
This recipe makes approximately 1 cup of dressing.
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon water (optional, for thinner consistency)
Instructions:
Step 1: Whisk the Vinaigrette
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, and lemon juice until well combined. A simple whisk is all you need; no fancy equipment required!
Step 2: Add the Aromatics
Add the minced garlic, oregano, basil, parsley, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Continue whisking until everything is thoroughly incorporated. The aroma alone will make your mouth water!
Step 3: Adjust Consistency (Optional)
If you prefer a thinner dressing, add a tablespoon of water and whisk again until smooth. This step allows you to personalize the recipe to your taste.
Step 4: Taste and Adjust
Taste the dressing and adjust the seasonings as needed. You might want to add a pinch more salt, pepper, or herbs, depending on your preference. This is where your culinary creativity shines!
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Pour the dressing over your favorite salad or use it as a marinade for chicken, fish, or vegetables. This simple dressing is amazingly versatile! Store any leftover dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Use fresh herbs: Fresh herbs will significantly enhance the flavor of the dressing. If fresh herbs are unavailable, use high-quality dried herbs instead.
- Adjust acidity: If you prefer a less acidic dressing, reduce the amount of red wine vinegar or lemon juice.
- Emulsify for a creamier dressing: For a creamier texture, you can lightly emulsify the dressing with an immersion blender for a few seconds.
Variations:
- Spicy Italian: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Herby Italian: Experiment with other herbs like thyme, rosemary, or chives.
- Garlic Lover's Italian: Add an extra clove of garlic or use garlic powder for a stronger garlic flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 1-2g
- Protein: 0g
This lite Italian dressing recipe is a simple, healthy, and delicious addition to any meal. It’s perfect for those seeking easy recipes, healthy meals, and quick dinner ideas. Enjoy this homemade cooking masterpiece, and don't hesitate to share it with your friends and family! It's sure to become a staple in your kitchen.