Discover the secret to elevating your salads and marinades with Alana Chernila's Italian Dressing—a simple yet flavorful concoction that will tantalize your taste buds! In just 10 minutes, you can whip up this vibrant dressing that boasts a perfect balance of tangy red wine vinegar, aromatic garlic, and rich olive oil. Whether you're drizzling it over fresh greens or using it as a zesty marinade for grilled veggies, this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to add a burst of Italian flair to their meals. Ready to transform your culinary creations? Dive into this easy recipe and unlock the deliciousness!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 1 cup
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Gather all the ingredients: olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Peel and finely mince the garlic clove using a sharp knife or garlic press to release its aromatic oils.
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, add the minced garlic and Dijon mustard. Whisk these together to create a smooth base for the dressing.
- Slowly pour the red wine vinegar into the garlic and mustard mixture, whisking continuously to help the ingredients emulsify.
- Gradually stream in the olive oil while whisking vigorously to create a smooth, well-combined dressing.
- Sprinkle in the dried oregano, ensuring it is evenly distributed throughout the dressing.
- Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, starting with a small amount and adjusting according to your preference.
- Whisk all ingredients together until the dressing is fully combined and has a slightly thickened, emulsified consistency.
- Taste the dressing and adjust seasonings if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs to suit your palate.
- Transfer the dressing to a clean glass jar or bottle with a tight-fitting lid for storage.
- Refrigerate the dressing for up to one week. Shake well before each use to re-emulsify the ingredients.
Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for high-quality olive oil and fresh garlic. Fresh ingredients make a noticeable difference in taste!
- Adjust to Your Taste: Don’t hesitate to tweak the seasoning. Start with a pinch of salt and pepper, then taste and adjust according to your preference for a personalized flavor.
- Emulsification is Key: To achieve a perfectly smooth dressing, whisk vigorously while adding the olive oil. This helps emulsify the dressing, giving it that creamy texture.
- Let It Rest: Allow the dressing to sit for at least 30 minutes before using. This resting period lets the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Storage Tips: Store the dressing in a clean glass jar in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to a week—just give it a good shake before each use to re-emulsify.
- Versatile Uses: This dressing isn’t just for salads! Use it as a marinade for chicken or fish, or drizzle it over roasted vegetables for an extra layer of flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 1g
Protein: 0g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
