Craving that creamy, tangy Italian dressing that perfectly complements your favorite Pizza Hut salad? Forget the store-bought versions – this recipe unlocks the secret to recreating that delicious, addictive dressing right in your own kitchen! It's surprisingly easy to make, uses readily available ingredients, and will quickly become a staple in your homemade cooking repertoire. This is the perfect addition to your healthy meals, and a great option for quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients: You'll need these simple pantry staples
- 1 cup mayonnaise (best quality for best flavor)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup milk (whole milk recommended for creaminess)
- 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
Instructions: Let's get cooking!
Step 1: Combining the wet ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, milk, white wine vinegar, sugar, and black pepper until smooth and creamy. This is the base of your delicious dressing, so take your time to ensure everything is well incorporated.
Step 2: Adding the dry ingredients: Next, add the Parmesan cheese, oregano, basil, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt to the bowl. Whisk everything together vigorously until the cheese is fully incorporated and the dressing is evenly textured.
Step 3: Taste and adjust: Give your homemade dressing a taste test. You can adjust the seasoning to your preference. If you want it tangier, add a little more vinegar. If you prefer it sweeter, add a touch more sugar. Salt can also be adjusted to your liking. This is where your homemade magic happens!
Step 4: Chill and serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the dressing for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the dressing to chill. This step is crucial for developing the rich flavors that make this dressing so irresistible. Serve over your favorite salad, or use it as a marinade for chicken or fish.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Creamy Italian Dressing
- Use high-quality mayonnaise: The taste of your dressing heavily depends on the mayonnaise. Investing in a good quality brand will make a noticeable difference.
- Fresh herbs are best: If you have fresh oregano and basil on hand, feel free to substitute 1 tablespoon of each chopped fresh herb for the dried varieties. Just be mindful that fresh herbs will have a stronger flavor, so you might want to start with a little less.
- Storage: Store leftover dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Variations: Make it your own!
- Spicy Italian: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Lemon Italian: Add the zest and juice of half a lemon for a bright citrusy flavor.
- Roasted Garlic: Use roasted garlic instead of garlic powder for a deeper, more mellow garlic flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200 (depending on the mayonnaise used)
- Fat: High
- Protein: Moderate
- Carbohydrates: Low
This easy recipe makes a delightful homemade alternative to store-bought dressings, and is perfect for those looking for delicious dishes and best recipes. Enjoy!