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Italian Pasta Salad Dressing

Italian Pasta Salad Dressing
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Italian Pasta Salad Dressing is a vibrant, tangy, and herbaceous dressing that perfectly coats pasta salads with authentic Italian flavors. Made with simple pantry staples like extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, and basil, it is easy to prepare and versatile for any occasion. This dressing adds a refreshing burst of taste, with optional variations to customize sweetness, spice, and freshness, making it an essential recipe to elevate your pasta salads.

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
  • 3 tablespoons Red Wine Vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon Onion Powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon Salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Honey or Sugar (optional)

Instructions

  1. Combine the Vinegar and Seasonings: Pour the red wine vinegar into a medium-sized bowl. Add the dried oregano, dried basil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk these together so the seasonings fully dissolve and infuse the vinegar with maximum flavor.
  2. Slowly Whisk in Olive Oil: Gradually stream in the extra virgin olive oil while whisking vigorously. This creates a smooth, slightly emulsified dressing with the right balance between acidity and richness.
  3. Adjust Sweetness: If desired, stir in honey or sugar a little at a time to offset the vinegar’s sharpness. Taste and adjust to your liking.
  4. Let it Rest: Allow the dressing to sit at room temperature for at least 10 minutes so the flavors meld beautifully before tossing it with your pasta salad ingredients.

Notes

  • Use quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
  • Whisk vigorously to emulsify the dressing properly.
  • Adjust seasoning gradually to avoid oversalting.
  • The dressing tastes better if made a few hours ahead.
  • Serve the dressing at room temperature for even coating.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Shake before use.
  • Freezing is not recommended as it affects texture and flavor.
  • No reheating needed; serve cold or at room temperature.

Nutrition

Keywords: Italian pasta salad dressing, pasta salad dressing, Italian dressing, tangy pasta dressing, herbaceous dressing, easy pasta salad dressing

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