I’ve always loved the vibrant flavors of Good Seasons Italian Dressing, whether drizzled over a fresh salad or used as a zesty marinade. But finding the perfect bottle in stores can be hit or miss, so I decided to create my own copycat recipe.
This homemade version captures all the tangy, herby goodness that makes Good Seasons a favorite in so many kitchens. It’s simple to make with ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. Plus, you can tweak it to suit your taste, adding a personal touch to every drizzle.
Ingredients
Creating my copycat Good Seasons Italian Dressing requires a handful of common pantry staples. Here’s what you’ll need to replicate those vibrant flavors.
Dressing Ingredients
- Olive oil: 3/4 cup
- White vinegar: 1/4 cup
- Water: 2 tablespoons
- Sugar: 1 tablespoon
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Dry mustard: 1 teaspoon
- Garlic powder: ½ teaspoon
- Onion powder: ½ teaspoon
- Italian seasoning: 1 teaspoon
- Black pepper: ½ teaspoon
Optional Add-Ins
- Dried oregano: ½ teaspoon for extra herbal depth
- Red pepper flakes: ¼ teaspoon for a subtle kick
- Grated Parmesan: 1 tablespoon for added richness
- Fresh parsley: 2 tablespoons chopped for brightness
Tools and Equipment
To craft my homemade Good Seasons Italian Dressing, I rely on these essential tools and equipment:
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Ensure accurate measurements of oils, vinegars, and seasonings for a balanced flavor.
- Whisk
Perfect for blending ingredients smoothly and achieving the right emulsification.
- Mixing Bowl
A sturdy bowl provides ample space to combine all components thoroughly.
- Jar with Lid
Ideal for storing the dressing and giving it a good shake before serving.
- Sharp Knife and Cutting Board
Necessary for finely chopping fresh herbs like parsley if you choose to add them.
- Grater
Handy for adding freshly grated Parmesan cheese to enhance the dressing’s richness.
Having these tools on hand makes the process seamless and ensures every batch of dressing turns out deliciously consistent.
Directions
I’ve perfected the steps to create this delicious Good Seasons Italian Dressing copycat. Let’s get started.
Prepare Ingredients
- I measure 3/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil.
- I pour in 1/4 cup white vinegar.
- I add 2 tablespoons granulated sugar.
- I sprinkle 1 teaspoon kosher salt.
- I include 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder.
- I add 1/2 teaspoon onion powder.
- I stir in 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning.
- If desired, I prepare optional ingredients:
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Mix Dressing
- I combine the olive oil and white vinegar in a mixing bowl.
- I add the sugar and salt to the bowl.
- I sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, and dried Italian seasoning.
- I whisk the mixture vigorously until smooth and emulsified.
- If using, I incorporate the red pepper flakes, grated Parmesan, and fresh parsley.
Let It Marinate
- I transfer the dressing to a clean jar with a tight-sealing lid.
- I refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Before each use, I shake the jar well to maintain consistency.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Preparing your Good Seasons Italian Dressing ahead of time ensures you have this flavorful staple ready whenever you need it. Here’s how I make and store the dressing for maximum freshness and convenience:
- Batch Preparation
- I double or triple the recipe quantities to create a larger batch. This minimizes daily prep time and ensures you always have dressing on hand.
- Proper Storage
- After mixing, I transfer the dressing into a clean glass jar with an airtight lid. Mason jars work perfectly for this purpose.
- I label each jar with the date of preparation using a dry-erase marker or a masking label. This helps keep track of freshness.
- Refrigeration
- Store the jar in the refrigerator immediately. Homemade Italian dressing typically stays fresh for up to 2 weeks.
- Before each use, I give the jar a good shake to re-emulsify the ingredients, as separation occurs naturally over time.
- Freezing Option
- If you need to store the dressing for longer, freezing is a viable option. I pour the dressing into a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
- I freeze the dressing for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before use and shake well to restore consistency.
- Quick Freshness Tips
- For an extra burst of flavor, add fresh herbs like basil or parsley just before serving instead of during the initial preparation. This keeps the herbs vibrant and aromatic.
Storage Duration
| Storage Method | Duration |
|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Up to 2 weeks |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months |
By following these make-ahead steps, you ensure your Good Seasons Italian Dressing remains fresh, flavorful, and ready to enhance your meals at any time.
Storage Instructions
Keeping your homemade Good Seasons Italian Dressing fresh and delicious is easy with the right storage techniques. Here’s how I ensure my dressing stays at its best:
- Transfer to an Airtight Container
Once you’ve mixed all the ingredients, pour the dressing into a clean glass jar with a tight-fitting lid. Mason jars are my go-to choice because they seal perfectly and keep the dressing fresh.
- Label with Preparation Date
Use a marker or a label to note the date you made the dressing. This helps me keep track of its freshness and ensures I use it within the optimal time frame.
- Refrigerate Properly
Store the jar in the refrigerator. Proper refrigeration maintains the dressing’s flavor and quality.
- Shake Before Each Use
Ingredients can settle over time. Give the jar a good shake before using to blend everything back together smoothly.
- Batch Preparation
To make your life easier, I often double or even triple the recipe. This way, you have a ready supply of dressing without the daily prep.
- Add Fresh Herbs Before Serving
For an extra burst of flavor, add fresh herbs like parsley just before serving. This keeps the herbs vibrant and enhances the overall taste.
Storage Duration
| Storage Method | Duration |
|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 2 weeks |
| Freezer | 3 months |
By following these storage tips, you can enjoy your homemade Italian dressing at its peak freshness, ready to elevate any meal whenever you need it.
Serving Suggestions
Now that I’ve perfected this Good Seasons Italian Dressing copycat, here are some of my favorite ways to incorporate it into your meals:
Fresh Salads
Drizzle the dressing over a crisp green salad featuring mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and croutons. The vibrant flavors bring out the freshness of the vegetables.
Marinade for Grilled Meats
Use the dressing as a marinade for chicken, beef, or pork. Let the meat soak in the flavors for at least 30 minutes before grilling to enhance tenderness and taste.
Pasta Salad
Toss cooked and cooled pasta with the Italian dressing, along with ingredients like bell peppers, olives, salami, and mozzarella. It’s perfect for a hearty and flavorful side dish.
Sandwich Spread
Spread a generous amount of the dressing on your favorite sandwich or wrap. It adds a zesty kick and keeps the fillings moist and delicious.
Vegetable Dip
Serve the dressing as a dip alongside fresh veggies like carrots, celery, and bell peppers. It’s a healthy and tasty snack option.
Roasted Vegetables
Drizzle the dressing over vegetables before roasting. It adds depth and richness, making your roasted veggies even more irresistible.
Pizza Base
Use the dressing as a base sauce for homemade pizza. Spread it over the dough before adding your favorite toppings for an extra layer of flavor.
Grilled Vegetables
Brush the dressing onto vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers before grilling. It enhances their natural sweetness and adds a savory note.
Potato Salad
Mix the dressing into boiled potatoes along with herbs and crunchy vegetables for a delightful potato salad that’s perfect for picnics and gatherings.
Deviled Eggs
Incorporate a splash of the dressing into the yolk mixture for deviled eggs. It gives them a tangy and robust flavor that’s sure to impress.
Conclusion
Making my own Good Seasons Italian Dressing has been a delightful experience. It’s amazing how easy it is to create something so flavorful with simple ingredients. Having this homemade version means I can tweak it to perfectly match my taste every time. I love how versatile it is, enhancing everything from salads to grilled veggies. I hope this recipe brings as much joy to your kitchen as it has to mine. Enjoy experimenting and savoring every drop!
