Upgrade your next salad with a bright, zesty Homemade Italian Dressing. This flavorful dressing uses just a few pantry staples and comes together in about five minutes—perfect for tossing with greens, pasta salads, or grilled vegetables.
I’ll be sharing more homemade salad dressing recipes this year because homemade dressings are an easy way to transform simple salads into memorable meals. A classic Greek dressing and a sweet-tangy balsamic vinaigrette are staples in my kitchen, but when I want something zesty and savory, this Homemade Italian Dressing is my go-to.
Simple ingredients, fresh lemon juice, and a touch of Dijon mustard make this dressing bright, balanced, and versatile—great on everything from an Italian chopped salad to a simple green salad or marinated vegetables.
Why you’ll love this recipe:
- This easy Homemade Italian Dressing is zesty and savory with a fresh, bright finish. It easily replaces store-bought Italian dressing.
- Just six simple ingredients and about five minutes to make.
- Gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan when made without added cheese—suitable for many special diets.
- Keeps well in the refrigerator for about two weeks when stored in an airtight container.
Recipe ingredients
The recipe uses just six ingredients you likely already have in the pantry and fridge.
- Red wine vinegar — the backbone of the flavor. If you don’t have red wine vinegar, white wine vinegar or white balsamic can be used instead.
- Fresh lemon juice — fresh is best; bottled lemon juice won’t provide the same bright flavor.
- Extra virgin olive oil — provides body and richness. Use a neutral oil if needed, but olive oil offers the best flavor here.
- Dried herbs and spices — garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, and dried basil give this dressing its signature Italian profile. Fresh herbs can be substituted for an even fresher taste.
- Dijon mustard — adds depth and helps emulsify the dressing so the oil and vinegar stay combined.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper — to taste.
The recipe card below lists exact quantities.
How to make this recipe
Mason jar method: Add all ingredients to a clean mason jar, seal the lid tightly, and shake vigorously until the dressing is fully emulsified and slightly thickened.
Whisk method: Combine all ingredients except the oil in a small bowl and whisk until combined. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously until the dressing emulsifies.
Recipe FAQs
Make Italian dressing by combining red wine vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, dried herbs, garlic and onion powder, salt, pepper, and olive oil. Seal in a jar and shake until emulsified, or whisk together in a bowl while slowly adding the oil.
Store homemade Italian dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for about two weeks; because it contains no preservatives, its shelf life is shorter than store-bought varieties. If the oil solidifies in the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes and shake or whisk before using.
Recipe notes
- Pro tip: Refrigerated dressing may thicken or cloud. Remove it from the fridge 10–15 minutes before serving and shake vigorously.
- Add 1 tablespoon freshly grated Parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast for extra umami.
- Fresh herbs (parsley, basil, oregano) can be used in place of dried herbs for a brighter flavor.
- Store in an airtight jar for up to two weeks.
More homemade salad dressing recipes:
- Coleslaw Dressing
- Greek Yogurt Ranch Dressing
- Green Goddess Dressing
- Lemon Vinaigrette
- Louie Salad Dressing
- Honey Mustard Dressing
- Red Wine Vinaigrette
Did you try this recipe? If so, leave a review below and tag @flavorthemoments on social media so I can see what you made.
Easy Homemade Italian Dressing
Servings: 10 tablespoons • Prep Time: 5 mins • Total Time: 5 mins
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 6 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Place all ingredients in a clean mason jar and seal the lid tightly. Shake vigorously until the dressing is emulsified and slightly thickened.
- Alternatively, combine vinegar, lemon juice, mustard, and spices in a bowl. Whisk while slowly adding the olive oil until the dressing emulsifies.
- Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Toss with salad or pasta and enjoy.
Notes
- If refrigerated, allow the dressing to warm 10–15 minutes and shake before serving.
- Add 1 tablespoon Parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast for extra depth.
- Fresh herbs can replace dried herbs if available.
- Store in an airtight container for up to two weeks.
Nutrition
Serving: 1 tablespoon • Calories: 74 kcal • Fat: 8 g • Saturated Fat: 1 g • Sodium: 44 mg
Nutrition is estimated and intended as a guideline only.
Course: Condiments/Dressing • Cuisine: Italian • Author: Marcie