I’ve always loved the vibrant flavor Newman’s Own Italian Dressing adds to my salads. There’s something special about that perfect balance of tangy and savory that makes every bite memorable. Whether drizzling it over a crisp garden salad or using it as a marinade for chicken, it’s a staple in my kitchen.
But store-bought dressings can be pricey, and I often find myself craving a fresher, homemade alternative. That’s why I decided to create this copycat recipe. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up this delicious dressing in no time, capturing all the taste you love without breaking the bank.
Ingredients
Here are the ingredients you’ll need to create my copycat Newman’s Own Italian Dressing.
Dressing Ingredients
- 3/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup white wine vinegar
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional Add-Ins
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard for a tangier flavor
- 1 teaspoon honey to add extra sweetness
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese for a richer taste
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat
Tools And Equipment
To create my Newman’s Own Italian Dressing copycat recipe, having the right tools makes all the difference. Here’s what I use in my kitchen to ensure the dressing comes out perfectly every time:
- Mixing Bowl
A large mixing bowl is essential for combining all the ingredients smoothly. I prefer a stainless steel or glass bowl for easy cleaning and durability.
- Whisk
A sturdy whisk helps emulsify the oil and vinegar, creating a rich and creamy texture. A balloon whisk works best for thorough mixing.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Accurate measurements are crucial for balancing flavors. I use a standard set of measuring cups and spoons to ensure precision.
- Garlic Press
Fresh garlic adds a wonderful depth to the dressing. A garlic press makes mincing garlic quick and effortless.
- Jar or Airtight Container
Storing the dressing in a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid keeps it fresh and allows flavors to meld. I often use mason jars for their convenience.
- Fine Mesh Sieve
To achieve a smooth dressing, I strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve, removing any lumps or bits of herbs.
- Grater (Optional)
If you’re adding Parmesan cheese, a fine grater is handy for incorporating it smoothly into the dressing.
Make-Ahead Instructions
As a chef who loves perfecting flavors, making this Italian dressing ahead of time is a game-changer. Here’s how I ensure it stays fresh and flavorful:
- Mix Thoroughly: After preparing the dressing, whisk all ingredients together in a large mixing bowl until well combined and emulsified.
- Choose the Right Container: Transfer the dressing to a clean glass jar or an airtight container. I recommend using containers with tight-fitting lids to prevent any leakage and maintain freshness.
- Refrigerate: Place the container in the refrigerator. This dressing can be stored for up to two weeks, allowing the flavors to deepen and meld beautifully over time.
- Shake Before Use: Ingredients may separate after sitting. Give the jar a good shake or stir the dressing before each use to recombine the flavors.
- Labeling: Don’t forget to label your container with the date it was made. This helps you keep track of its freshness and ensures you use it within the optimal time frame.
- Optional Flavor Boost: For an even richer taste, let the dressing sit for 24 hours before using it. This resting period allows the herbs and spices to infuse more thoroughly into the oil and vinegar.
By following these make-ahead steps, you’ll have a delicious, ready-to-use Italian dressing that enhances any salad or marinade with minimal effort.
Directions
Creating my copycat Newman’s Own Italian Dressing is straightforward and rewarding. Follow these steps to achieve that perfect, vibrant flavor.
Prepare Ingredients
Gather and prepare all your ingredients to ensure a smooth mixing process:
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: 3/4 cup
- White Wine Vinegar: 1/4 cup
- Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons, freshly squeezed
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Dijon Mustard(optional): 1 teaspoon
- Honey(optional): 1 teaspoon
- Parmesan Cheese(optional): 2 tablespoons, finely grated
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes(optional): 1/4 teaspoon
- Dried Oregano: 1 teaspoon
- Dried Basil: 1 teaspoon
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
- Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon
Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the vinegar, lemon juice, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, honey, and Parmesan cheese. Whisk them together until well blended.
Blend Dressing
Slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil while continuously whisking to emulsify the dressing. This ensures a smooth and creamy consistency. Add the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Whisk until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
Store Properly
Transfer the dressing into a clean glass jar or airtight container using a fine mesh sieve to remove any solids for a silky texture. Seal the container tightly and refrigerate for up to two weeks. Shake or stir the dressing before each use to maintain consistency. For an even richer flavor, let the dressing sit for 24 hours before serving.
Serving Suggestions
I’m thrilled with how versatile my homemade Newman’s Own Italian Dressing copycat recipe is. Here are some of my top ways to incorporate it into your meals:
1. Classic Garden Salad
Create a fresh and vibrant garden salad by combining mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and shredded carrots. Drizzle generously with the Italian dressing and toss to coat evenly. Top with crunchy croutons and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
2. Marinated Grilled Chicken
Enhance your grilled chicken by marinating it in the Italian dressing for at least 30 minutes before cooking. The dressing infuses the chicken with rich flavors, making each bite juicy and tender. Perfect for serving alongside your favorite sides or slicing over a salad.
3. Pasta Salad Delight
Prepare a hearty pasta salad by mixing cooked and cooled rotini with diced bell peppers, black olives, artichoke hearts, and salami slices. Pour the Italian dressing over the top and toss until everything is well coated. Let it chill in the refrigerator for an hour to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Roasted Vegetable Medley
Toss your favorite vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, eggplant, and asparagus in the Italian dressing before roasting. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast at 400°F for 25-30 minutes. The dressing adds a tangy zest that complements the natural sweetness of the vegetables.
5. Sandwich Spread Upgrade
Spread a layer of Italian dressing on your sandwiches or wraps instead of traditional condiments. It adds a zesty kick that elevates flavors, especially in Italian subs filled with meats, cheeses, and fresh veggies.
6. Caprese Skewers
Assemble fresh caprese skewers by threading cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil leaves onto toothpicks. Drizzle the Italian dressing over the top just before serving for a burst of Italian flavors in every bite.
7. Marinade for Proteins
Use the dressing as a versatile marinade for proteins like steak, shrimp, or tofu. Combine the Italian dressing with minced garlic and herbs, then let your protein of choice marinate for at least an hour. Grill or bake to perfection with enhanced flavor.
8. Dress Your Roasted Potatoes
After roasting potatoes until crispy, toss them in the Italian dressing while they’re still hot. Add chopped parsley and a sprinkle of sea salt to finish. The dressing adds a delightful tang that pairs perfectly with the crispy texture.
9. Baked Ziti Enhancement
Boost the flavor of your baked ziti by mixing in a few tablespoons of Italian dressing with the tomato sauce. It adds depth and richness, making your pasta dish even more mouthwatering and satisfying.
10. Dipping Sauce for Breadsticks
Serve the Italian dressing as a dipping sauce for warm breadsticks or garlic bread. Its savory and tangy profile complements the buttery, garlicky flavors, making it a favorite appetizer for any meal.
Conclusion
Creating my own Italian dressing has been a game changer for my salads and meals. It’s so satisfying to mix fresh ingredients and know exactly what’s going into it. Plus saving a few bucks doesn’t hurt either.
I love how versatile it is—whether I’m tossing a garden salad or marinating chicken, it never disappoints. Making it ahead of time means I always have a tasty option ready to go.
Give this copycat recipe a try and enjoy the vibrant flavors without breaking the bank. I think you’ll find it quickly becomes a staple in your kitchen just like it did in mine.
