Name: Italian Dressing
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Ingredients: 3/4 cup Olive Oil; 1/4 cup red wine vinegar; 1 tsp basil; 1 tsp parsley; 1 tsp oregano; 3/4 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 tsp honey; 2 tbsp parmesan cheese (grated)

If you’re looking for an easy homemade Italian dressing recipe packed with fresh herb flavor, this simple dressing is the perfect addition to salads, marinades, pasta salads, and vegetables. Made with olive oil, red wine vinegar, parmesan cheese, garlic, and classic Italian herbs, this homemade dressing is flavorful, fresh, and far better than store-bought versions.

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

This homemade Italian dressing comes together in minutes and has the perfect balance of tangy vinegar, savory herbs, rich olive oil, and parmesan cheese. Whether you drizzle it over crisp salads or use it as a marinade for chicken and vegetables, this versatile dressing is delicious and easy to make.

Perfect for meal prep and everyday cooking, this classic Italian dressing recipe is one you’ll want to keep stocked in your refrigerator.

Why You’ll Love This Homemade Italian Dressing

This homemade dressing recipe is:

Easy to make
Full of fresh herb flavor
Great for salads and marinades
Made with simple pantry ingredients
Better than store-bought dressing
Ready in minutes

The olive oil and parmesan cheese create a rich smooth dressing while the herbs add classic Italian flavor.

Ingredients

Olive oil
Red wine vinegar
Basil
Parsley
Oregano
Garlic powder
Salt
Honey
Grated parmesan cheese

How to Make Homemade Italian Dressing

Start by adding all of the ingredients into a bowl or jar with a secure lid.

Whisk the ingredients together until fully combined or shake the jar vigorously until the dressing becomes smooth and blended.

Use the dressing immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.

If storing in the refrigerator, allow the dressing to sit at room temperature briefly before serving so the olive oil can return to liquid form.

Shake or whisk again before using.

Tips for the Best Italian Dressing

For perfect homemade Italian dressing:

Use quality olive oil
Shake well before serving
Use freshly grated parmesan cheese
Let refrigerated dressing come to room temperature
Store in a sealed jar for freshness

The flavors continue developing as the dressing sits, making it even more flavorful after chilling.

Ways to Use Italian Dressing

This homemade Italian dressing is delicious:

Over green salads
On pasta salad
As a chicken marinade
Drizzled over roasted vegetables
On sandwiches and wraps
With fresh tomatoes and mozzarella

It also works wonderfully as a quick marinade for grilled meats and vegetables.

Why Does Olive Oil Solidify?

Olive oil naturally solidifies when refrigerated. Allowing the dressing to sit at room temperature briefly will soften the oil again.

Shake well before serving to fully recombine the ingredients.

Storage Tips

Store the dressing in a sealed jar or airtight container in the refrigerator for up to several weeks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does homemade dressing separate?

Oil and vinegar naturally separate over time, so simply shake or whisk before serving.

Can I use this as a marinade?

Yes! This dressing works wonderfully as a marinade for chicken, vegetables, and pasta salads.

Can I leave out the parmesan cheese?

Absolutely. The dressing is still flavorful without cheese.

How long does homemade Italian dressing last?

When refrigerated properly, it stays fresh for up to a couple of weeks.

More homemade condiments recipes to enjoy.

Some of my favorite kitchen tools, baking supplies, and cooking essentials used for homemade recipes can be found in my Amazon storefront. From sheet pans and mixing bowls to pantry staples and kitchen gadgets, these are products I personally love using in my kitchen for easy homemade cooking and baking.

Print Pin