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Italian Pasta Salad Dressing

Italian Pasta Salad Dressing
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This classic Italian Pasta Salad Dressing blends extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, and herbs to create a vibrant, tangy, and flavorful dressing perfect for pasta salads. Easy to prepare with pantry staples, it adds authentic Italian flavor and freshness to any pasta dish or salad, making it ideal for picnics, gatherings, or everyday meals.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
  • 1/4 cup Red Wine Vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard
  • 1 clove Garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Basil
  • 1 teaspoon Honey or Sugar
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black Pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Combine the Base Ingredients: In a small bowl or jar, pour in the extra virgin olive oil and red wine vinegar. Add the Dijon mustard as it helps bind the oil and vinegar together for a smooth texture.
  2. Add the Flavors: Stir in minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Whisk vigorously or shake the jar well to incorporate everything evenly.
  3. Sweeten and Adjust: Add honey or sugar gradually, tasting as you go to balance the acidity of the vinegar and the pungency of the garlic for a perfect blend.
  4. Let It Marinate: Allow the dressing to sit for at least 10 minutes before tossing with pasta salad, giving the flavors time to meld beautifully.
  5. Toss and Serve: Pour your freshly made Italian Pasta Salad Dressing over cooked and cooled pasta mixed with vegetables or cheese. Toss gently so every bite is coated evenly.

Notes

  • Use fresh herbs and good quality olive oil for the best flavor.
  • Adjust vinegar quantity gradually to suit your taste.
  • Whisk or shake dressing until it thickens slightly for a smooth emulsion.
  • Allow dressing to rest before serving for optimal flavor melding.
  • Store leftover dressing in a sealed container in the fridge and shake before use.
  • This dressing is meant to be served cold or at room temperature; no reheating needed.
  • Freezing is not recommended as the emulsion may break.

Nutrition

Keywords: Italian pasta salad dressing, pasta dressing, Italian dressing, homemade dressing, pasta salad sauce, vinaigrette, summer salad dressing

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