Homemade Italian Dressing

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Homemade Italian Dressing (Wish-Bone Style): Zesty, Tangy & Fresh

Introduction
Tired of store-bought dressings filled with preservatives and additives? Recreate the classic flavor of Wish-Bone Italian Dressing at home with this vibrant, homemade Italian vinaigrette. It’s fresh, zesty, and customizable—perfect for salads, marinades, grilled vegetables, and pasta salads. Whether you’re a fan of the iconic restaurant-style salad or love having homemade staples in your fridge, this easy recipe delivers all the bold flavor you crave with clean, pantry-friendly ingredients.

Origin and Inspiration
Italian dressing may not be traditionally Italian, but it has become a beloved staple in American kitchens and restaurants. Popularized in the mid-20th century, brands like Wish-Bone made this tangy vinaigrette a household favorite with its signature mix of vinegar, oil, herbs, and spices. This homemade version draws direct inspiration from the Wish-Bone formula, capturing that nostalgic taste with a fresh twist. Unlike bottled versions, it contains no artificial preservatives and can be tweaked to suit your taste and dietary preferences.

Ingredients

  • ½ cup extra virgin olive oil (or neutral oil like canola for a milder taste)
  • ¼ cup white wine vinegar (red wine vinegar works too)
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (or honey/maple syrup for natural sweetness)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (acts as an emulsifier and adds tang)
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ¾ teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon dried basil
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)
  • 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional, adds umami and creaminess)

Instructions

  1. In a bowl or jar with a lid, combine the vinegar, water, sugar, mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, basil, black pepper, salt, and red pepper flakes.
  2. Slowly add the olive oil while whisking vigorously, or if using a jar, add the oil and shake until fully emulsified.
  3. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese for a richer, more savory flavor profile (optional).
  4. Taste and adjust—add more vinegar for tanginess or sugar for sweetness to suit your taste.
  5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. Shake well each time you use it.

Optional Additions and Variations

  • Add 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice for a citrusy brightness.
  • Substitute dried herbs with fresh for a garden-fresh version.
  • Add chopped Kalamata olives and a splash of red wine vinegar for a Greek-style twist.
  • Use half water and half oil to cut calories for a low-fat version.
  • Use monk fruit or erythritol instead of sugar for a keto-friendly version.

Nutritional Information (Per 2 tbsp serving)

  • Calories: ~120
  • Fat: ~13g
  • Saturated Fat: ~2g
  • Carbohydrates: ~1g
  • Sugar: ~1g
  • Sodium: ~120mg
  • Cholesterol: 0mg
  • Protein: 0g

Health Benefits
Olive oil is rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants. Unlike store-bought versions, this dressing contains no artificial preservatives. It’s easy to adapt to vegan, low-carb, or dairy-free diets. The sugar content is minimal compared to commercial brands, and the fresh ingredients provide vibrant flavor without a processed aftertaste.

Tips for Success
Use high-quality oil and vinegar—they’re the foundation of flavor. Shake the dressing before every use, as separation is natural. Make a large batch and store it in the fridge for up to a week. If you want a creamier version, a small spoon of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt works well.

Conclusion
Once you try this Homemade Italian Dressing, you may never go back to bottled versions. It’s bold, herbaceous, and easy to make with ingredients you likely already have. Whether for salads, marinades, or roasted vegetables, this versatile dressing adds a fresh, zesty finish to any dish.

Serving Suggestions

  • Toss with romaine, tomatoes, cucumbers, and croutons for a classic salad.
  • Use as a marinade for chicken or shrimp.
  • Drizzle over roasted potatoes or grilled zucchini.
  • Mix into a pasta salad with olives, cherry tomatoes, and feta.
  • Serve with crusty bread as a dipping oil with a splash of balsamic.

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