Best 4 Mamas Italian Salad Dressing Recipes

Indulge your taste buds with Mama's Italian Salad Dressing, a delectable dressing that adds a burst of flavor to any salad. This homemade dressing boasts a perfect balance of tangy vinegar, rich olive oil, aromatic herbs, and a touch of sweetness. The secret lies in the careful selection of ingredients, ensuring a harmonious blend of flavors.

This versatile dressing complements a wide variety of salads, from crisp greens to hearty grilled vegetables. Its zesty flavor enhances the natural flavors of fresh produce, making each bite a delightful experience. Whether you're a fan of classic Caesar salad, Caprese salad, or a simple side salad, Mama's Italian Salad Dressing elevates your culinary creations to the next level.

In this article, you'll find three variations of Mama's Italian Salad Dressing, each with its own unique twist. The classic recipe forms the foundation, showcasing the perfect balance of flavors that has made this dressing a beloved staple. The sun-dried tomato version infuses a vibrant red hue and a slightly sweet, tangy flavor that complements grilled chicken or roasted vegetables.

For a creamy twist, the buttermilk version adds a luscious texture and a touch of tang that pairs wonderfully with fresh berries and goat cheese. With three delicious variations to choose from, you're sure to find the perfect dressing to suit your taste preferences and culinary adventures.

Here are our top 4 tried and tested recipes!

ZESTY HOMEMADE ITALIAN DRESSING

Zesty Homemade Italian Dressing image

Forget the bottled stuff: this zesty homemade Italian dressing is easy to make and packed with flavor.

Provided by Jennifer Segal

Categories Salads

Yield Makes 1 ⅓ cups

Number Of Ingredients 7

Ingredients

¾ cup extra virgin olive oil, best quality such as Colavita or Lucini
⅓ cup red wine vinegar, best quality such as Pompeian Gourmet or Domaine des Vignes
1½ tablespoons real maple syrup
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2½ teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
4 small garlic cloves, minced

Steps:

Combine all ingredients in a jar. Seal tightly with lid and shake vigorously to emulsify. Toss gently with the romaine lettuce right before serving. Store extra dressing in refrigerator for up to a week. As the dressing sits, it will separate (and solidify in the fridge), so be sure to shake well before using.

Nutrition Facts : ServingSize 2 tablespoons, Calories 155, Fat 16 g, Carbohydrate 3 g, Protein 0 g, SaturatedFat 2 g, Sugar 2 g, Fiber 0 g, Sodium 151 mg, Cholesterol 0 mg

MAMA'S BALSAMIC VINAIGRETTE

Mama's Balsamic Vinaigrette image

This is a wonderful vinaigrette that my mother invented. It's wonderful as a dressing, but we also use it for chicken marinade and steamed veggies.

Provided by SOSARA77

Categories Side Dish Sauces and Condiments Recipes Salad Dressing Recipes Vinaigrette Dressing Recipes

Time 10m

Yield 12

Number Of Ingredients 7

Ingredients

¾ cup extra virgin olive oil
¾ cup balsamic vinegar
1 clove garlic, crushed or to taste
½ teaspoon dried oregano
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
1 pinch salt
1 pinch freshly ground black pepper

Steps:

Combine the olive oil, vinegar, garlic, oregano, mustard, salt and pepper in a jar with a tight fitting lid. Shake well before serving. Store in the refrigerator.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 137.4 calories, Carbohydrate 2.7 g, Fat 14 g, Fiber 0.1 g, Protein 0.1 g, SaturatedFat 2 g, Sodium 24.8 mg, Sugar 2.2 g

THE BEST EVER CLASSIC ITALIAN SALAD DRESSING

The Best Ever Classic Italian Salad Dressing image

Provided by Bruce Bradley

Categories Dressings & Condiments

Number Of Ingredients 8

Ingredients

1/2 cup vinegar (white wine, red wine, or balsamic are our favorites)
1 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/4 teaspoon onion granules (see notes)
1/4 teaspoon salt or less to taste
freshly ground pepper to taste

Steps:

Choose the vinegar you want for the base of your Italian dressing and pour into a salad dressing carafe.
Add olive oil, garlic, and dried seasonings. Shake and it's ready to serve.

MAMA DISALVO'S ITALIAN DRESSING RECIPE

Mama Disalvo's Italian Dressing Recipe image

Provided by Meg_s82

Number Of Ingredients 11

Ingredients

1/2 cup red wine vinegar
1/2 cup cider vinegar
1/2 cup mazola lite oil
1/2 cup extra lite olive oil
1/2 cup water
1 Tbsp. lemon juice
1 tsp. black pepper
1 tsp. lite salt
2 tsp. italian seasoning
1 tsp. sugar (more if you like)
7 cloves minced garlic (to taste)

Steps:

Combine all ingredients put in old dressing bottle. Adjust to your taste.

Tips:

Use fresh ingredients: The fresher the ingredients, the better your dressing will taste. If possible, use homegrown or locally sourced produce.
Don't be afraid to experiment: There are many different ways to make Italian salad dressing. Feel free to adjust the ingredients to your liking. You can add more or less garlic, herbs, or vinegar, or you can even try different types of oil.
Let the dressing sit for a while: This will allow the flavors to meld together and develop. If you can, make the dressing ahead of time and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before using.
Use a good quality olive oil: The olive oil is the base of the dressing, so it's important to use a good quality oil. Look for an extra virgin olive oil that is made from olives that have been cold-pressed.
Store the dressing properly: Italian salad dressing can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Be sure to keep it in a tightly sealed container.

Conclusion:

Italian salad dressing is a versatile and delicious dressing that can be used on a variety of salads. It's easy to make and can be tailored to your liking. With a few simple ingredients, you can create a dressing that will enhance the flavor of your favorite salad. So next time you're looking for a new salad dressing, give this Italian salad dressing a try. You won't be disappointed!