Description
This Italian Pasta Salad Dressing is the zesty upgrade your pasta salads have been waiting for. With herbs, garlic, and a tangy vinegar punch, it’s a go-to for barbecues, picnics, or adding magic to weekday meals. It’s incredibly versatile, perfect not only on pasta but also as a marinade or veggie dip.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup olive oil (or a blend of olive and vegetable oil for a lighter option)
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar (apple cider vinegar can be used for a gentler flavor)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (reduce or substitute with herb seasoning for low-sodium)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
Instructions
- Whisk together the olive oil and red wine vinegar in a medium bowl until well blended.
- Add in the garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Mix in the Dijon mustard and sugar until the dressing is smooth and fully combined.
- Taste the dressing and tweak the seasonings as needed. Add more herbs or a dash of vinegar if desired.
- Use immediately over your favorite pasta salad, as a marinade, or store it for later. Makes a lovely homemade gift too!
Notes
Let the dressing sit for at least 30 minutes before using to allow the herbs to fully infuse. Shake well before serving and store in the fridge for up to one week. Works wonders as a marinade for grilled meats too!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Condiment
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Italian dressing, pasta salad, vinaigrette, homemade dressing, zesty salad