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Italian Dressing

Updated: Apr 4, 2025 · Published: Mar 10, 2025 by Allie · This post may contain affiliate links ·

A versatile, oil-free classic Italian dressing. This easy recipe comes together in 5 minutes and can be used as a topping for salad or pasta.  

large wooden bowl of salad topped with Italian dressing
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  • Ingredients
  • Instructions
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Ingredients

bowls containing ingredients for Italian dressing on a white marble background
  • Red wine vinegar: Adds a slight sweetness and mild acidity to the dressing.
  • Freshly squeezed lemon juice: For an uplifting brightness. Lemon juice is high in vitamin C, helping support the immune system. 
  • Dijon mustard: Gives the dressing a slight creaminess and nuanced depth of flavor.
  • Nutritional yeast: A low-sodium seasoning that adds a touch of savory complexity. Nutritional yeast is a good source of B vitamins, helping to support a healthy metabolism.
  • Dried basil: Basil is frequently used in Italian recipes for its distinctive flavor. Dried basil contains vitamin K, which supports healthy bones. 
  • Dried oregano: Dried oregano adds an earthy flavor along with immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory antioxidants.
  • Garlic powder: Adds garlic flavor while blending smoothly into the dressing. Garlic powder’s health benefits include supporting artery function and healthy blood pressure.
  • Maple syrup: For a touch of sweetness.
  • Freshly cracked black pepper: For a peppery kick.

See recipe card for quantities.

Instructions

glass bowl containing Italian dressing

Step 1: Add all the ingredients to a small bowl. Whisk until the ingredients are fully incorporated.

wooden bowl containing salad topped with Italian dressing

Step 2: Enjoy the Italian dressing in Italian Chopped Salad or over your favorite salad greens. Alternatively, use Italian dressing to make this chilled pasta salad.

Equipment

  • Measuring spoons 
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife (for slicing the lemon)
  • Small bowl
  • Whisk or fork

Storage

Store any leftover Italian dressing in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. Shake or stir well before using.

wooden bowl containing salad topped with italian dressing

Italian Dressing

The Essential Vegan
A versatile, oil-free classic Italian dressing. This easy recipe comes together in 5 minutes and can be used as a topping for salad or pasta.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes mins
Total Time 5 minutes mins
Course Dressing
Cuisine Italian-inspired
Servings 4

Equipment

  • measuring spoons
  • cutting board
  • sharp knife
  • small bowl
  • whisk or fork

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice (juice of about ½ a medium lemon)
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon maple syrup
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • freshly cracked black pepper

Instructions
 

  • Add all the ingredients to a small bowl.
  • Whisk until the ingredients are fully incorporated.
  • Serve on your favorite green salad or over chilled pasta for an oil-free pasta salad.

Notes

  • Italian dressing will keep well in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. Shake or stir well before using.
Keyword italian salad dressing, oil-free dressing, oil-free italian dressing, oil-free vinaigrette, vegan italian dressing, vegan salad dressing

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I’m Allie and I’m so glad you’re here! In this blog, you’ll find quick, healthy, and delicious plant-based recipes that anyone can make. I hope you find something here to brighten your day!

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