Are you craving that creamy, tangy Italian salad dressing that perfectly complements your favorite Pizza Hut pizza? Look no further! This homemade recipe recreates that signature flavor, allowing you to enjoy restaurant-quality dressing anytime you want. It's surprisingly easy to make, uses readily available ingredients, and is perfect for quick dinner ideas or a healthy meal addition. Get ready to elevate your salads and other dishes with this delicious, homemade dressing!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup mayonnaise (best quality for best flavor)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar (granulated or powdered)
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
Instructions:
- Combine ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, red wine vinegar, sugar, oregano, basil, garlic powder, onion powder, pepper, and salt.
- Blend until smooth: Continue whisking until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined and the dressing is smooth and creamy. A handheld electric mixer can be used for a smoother, quicker result.
- Taste and adjust: Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning according to your preference. You might want to add more salt, pepper, vinegar, or sugar, depending on your taste.
- Chill (optional): For best flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate the dressing for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Tips for the Best Creamy Italian Dressing:
- Use high-quality mayonnaise: The quality of the mayonnaise significantly impacts the overall taste of the dressing. Opt for a brand you enjoy.
- Fresh herbs: If you have fresh oregano and basil on hand, use about 1 tablespoon of each, finely chopped. Fresh herbs add a brighter, more intense flavor.
- Adjust to your liking: Feel free to experiment with the amount of each ingredient to customize the dressing to your taste. Do you prefer it tangier? Add more vinegar! Want it sweeter? Add a bit more sugar.
- Storage: Store leftover dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Variations:
- Spicy Italian: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Creamier Dressing: Add a tablespoon or two of sour cream or heavy cream for an extra creamy texture.
- Lemon-Herb Twist: Add the zest and juice of half a lemon for a brighter, citrusy flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used. It's always best to use a nutritional calculator with your exact ingredients for precise information.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Fat: 15-20g
- Saturated Fat: 3-5g
- Cholesterol: 10-15mg
- Sodium: 100-150mg
This easy recipe is perfect for homemade cooking, resulting in a delicious dish that rivals restaurant quality. Enjoy this amazing creamy Italian salad dressing on your favorite salads, pasta dishes, or even as a marinade for chicken or fish! It's a versatile and flavorful addition to your culinary repertoire – a true best recipe for many occasions. Enjoy!