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Zesty Italian Pasta Salad Dressing


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  • Author: Mia
  • Total Time: 5 minutes
  • Yield: About 10 servings (2 tablespoons per serving)
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This bold and zesty Italian dressing is the perfect blend of herbs, vinegar, and olive oil—ideal for pasta salads, leafy greens, or as a flavorful marinade.


Ingredients

¾ cup extra virgin olive oil

¼ cup red wine vinegar

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

½ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon black pepper

1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice

2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)


Instructions

Combine base ingredients: In a bowl or mason jar, whisk or shake together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, and honey (or maple syrup).

Add seasonings: Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.

Finish with lemon & cheese: Add lemon juice and Parmesan cheese (if using) and shake again until fully emulsified.

Adjust to taste: Add more vinegar, honey, or spice to customize.

Store: Keep in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 1 week. Shake before each use.

 

Notes

Dairy-Free/Vegan: Skip the Parmesan cheese for a plant-based version.

Use as Marinade: Great for chicken, shrimp, or veggies.

Customize: Swap herbs for fresh (double the amount) or try a different vinegar for new flavor profiles.

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Salad Dressing, Marinade
  • Method: Jar-Shaken
  • Cuisine: Italian-Inspired