A basic homemade Italian Salad Dressing Recipe that can be enhanced by the additions of freshly grated cheeses. Perfect for a crisp summer garden salad or as a dressing for an Italian sandwich.
1/2 cup red wine vinegar (white wine vinegar will give a lighter, less robust flavor to the dressing)
1 1/2 cups extra virgin oil
2 tbsp. fresh lemon juice
1 tsp. Dijon Mustard
2 tbsp. sugar or 1 tbsp. of honey (honey is much sweeter than sugar)
1/2 tsp. kosher salt
1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
1 tsp. garlic powder
1 tsp. onion powder
1 tsp. dried oregano
1 tsp. dried basil
If preparing in a bowl, whisk together vinegar, olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and sweetener. Whisk vigorously to emulsify.
Add dry seasonings and whisk again.
If preparing in a jar, add all ingredients, place lid on jar, and shake vigorously.
Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes will make a "zesty" Italian dressing.
Adding an Italian cheese such as Romano or Parmesan is an option.
For creamy Italian dressing add 1 cup of quality mayonnaise.