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Italian Pasta Salad Dressing

Italian Pasta Salad Dressing
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Italian Pasta Salad Dressing is a vibrant, fresh, and tangy dressing that effortlessly elevates any pasta salad with a perfect balance of herbs, acidity, and richness. Made with wholesome ingredients like extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, and classic Italian herbs, this dressing is quick to prepare, versatile, and ideal for both everyday meals and special gatherings. It brings authentic Italian flavors with a mild sweetness and savory depth that appeal to all ages.

Ingredients

Scale

Primary Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon honey or sugar
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Combine the Vinegar and Mustard: In a medium bowl, whisk together the red wine vinegar and Dijon mustard until fully blended, creating a smooth acidic base that will balance the richness of the oil.
  2. Add Garlic and Herbs: Stir in the minced garlic, dried oregano, and dried basil. These aromatics infuse the dressing with authentic Italian flavors and give it an irresistible herbal aroma.
  3. Incorporate Olive Oil Slowly: Slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil while whisking vigorously to emulsify the mixture, ensuring the dressing combines into a creamy, harmonious texture without separation.
  4. Season and Sweeten: Add salt, freshly ground black pepper, and a touch of honey or sugar to round out the flavor profile with balanced seasoning and just a hint of sweetness.
  5. Taste and Adjust: Taste your Italian Pasta Salad Dressing and adjust the vinegar or sweetness according to preference. Let it sit for at least 10 minutes to meld the flavors before tossing with pasta salad.

Notes

  • Use quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor and texture.
  • Whisk vigorously to properly emulsify and avoid separation.
  • Allow the dressing to rest for at least 10 minutes to marry flavors.
  • Start with less vinegar and honey; you can always add more to taste.
  • If available, substitute dried herbs with fresh herbs using triple the amount for enhanced brightness.
  • Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week and shake well before use.
  • Do not freeze the dressing as oil and vinegar separation worsens after thawing.
  • Let chilled dressing rest at room temperature briefly and whisk before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: Italian pasta salad dressing, pasta dressing, vinaigrette, Italian dressing, gluten free dressing, easy salad dressing, homemade dressing

Find it online: https://mealsbylina.com/italian-pasta-salad-dressing/