Creamy Italian Dressing

Homemade Creamy Italian Dressing is a rich and flavorful dressing that elevates any salad. Made with mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, and a blend of herbs and spices, this dressing is creamy, tangy, and perfectly balanced. Whether drizzled over greens, tossed in a pasta salad, or used as a dip, this homemade version is far superior to store-bought dressings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and creamy: A smooth texture that coats salads beautifully.
• Bursting with flavor: A perfect blend of tangy, herby, and garlicky notes.
• Versatile: Works as a salad dressing, dip, or sandwich spread.
• Easy to make: Comes together in minutes with simple ingredients.
• Customizable: Adjust the seasoning and consistency to your taste.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup olive oil
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp honey (optional)
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• ½ tsp dried thyme
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 2-3 tbsp water (to thin, as needed)

Directions

Blend the Ingredients:

1. In a food processor or blender, combine mayonnaise, olive oil, Parmesan cheese, vinegar, lemon juice, garlic, and Dijon mustard.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy.

Season & Adjust:

1. Add honey (if using), oregano, basil, thyme, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Blend again until well combined.

Adjust Consistency:

1. If the dressing is too thick, add 1 tbsp of water at a time until the desired consistency is reached.

Chill & Serve:

1. Transfer to a jar and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
2. Serve over fresh salads, pasta salads, or as a dip for veggies.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: About 1 cup (8 servings)
• Preparation Time: 5 minutes
• Chilling Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Lighter Version: Use Greek yogurt or light mayonnaise for a healthier option.
• Extra Tangy: Add an additional tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar.
• Spicy Kick: Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Herb Swap: Use fresh basil and oregano instead of dried for a fresher taste.
• Garlic Lovers: Increase the amount of garlic for a stronger flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
• Separation: If the dressing separates, shake or whisk before using.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as the creamy texture may change after thawing.

FAQs

Can I make this dressing without mayonnaise?

Yes, you can substitute Greek yogurt or sour cream for a tangy alternative.

What type of olive oil is best?

Use extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor and richness.

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Yes, substitute with double the amount of fresh herbs for a more vibrant taste.

Is this dressing keto-friendly?

Yes, if you omit the honey or use a keto-friendly sweetener.

Can I make this dressing dairy-free?

Yes, use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative or omit the cheese altogether.

How long does homemade dressing last?

It stays fresh for about a week when stored in the refrigerator.

Can I use apple cider vinegar instead of red wine vinegar?

Yes, but the flavor will be slightly different—still delicious!

How do I thicken the dressing if it’s too thin?

Add an extra tablespoon of mayonnaise or Parmesan cheese to thicken it.

Can I use this dressing as a marinade?

Yes, it works great as a marinade for chicken, shrimp, or vegetables.

What can I serve this dressing with?

It’s perfect for green salads, pasta salads, wraps, sandwiches, or as a dip for veggies and breadsticks.

Conclusion

This homemade Creamy Italian Dressing is a must-try for anyone who loves rich, tangy, and herb-packed flavors. Easy to make with pantry staples, it’s far better than store-bought versions. Whether you’re dressing a salad, dipping vegetables, or using it as a marinade, this versatile dressing is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Try it today and elevate your meals with homemade goodness!