Name: Easy Homemade Creamy Italian Salad Dressing Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/4 cup sour cream; 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil; 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar; 1 teaspoon lemon juice; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 2 teaspoons dried basil; 3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 teaspoon salt; Black pepper to taste

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Introduction

This easy homemade creamy Italian salad dressing is a perfect blend of tangy, herby, and rich flavors. Made with simple ingredients like mayonnaise, sour cream, and Parmesan, it transforms any salad into a delicious Italian-inspired dish.

A small clear glass jar filled with a creamy white sauce speckled with black and green herbs sits centered on a black plate, with a silver spoon placed inside the jar on the right side, partially submerged in the sauce. Above, a white bowl filled with chopped light yellow cabbage, red peppers, and thin red onion slices is partially visible, positioned on a white marbled surface. The colors are bright and natural with a soft light highlighting the textures of the sauce and vegetables. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup sour cream
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
2 teaspoons dried basil
3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 teaspoon salt
Black pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, olive oil, and sour cream. Whisk together until smooth and creamy to form the base of the dressing.
Step 2: Add the red wine vinegar and lemon juice to the bowl, whisking to incorporate the tangy flavors evenly.
Step 3: Stir in the onion powder, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, Parmesan cheese, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to blend all the herbs and spices.
Step 4: Whisk the dressing until it is creamy and fully combined. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed, adding more vinegar for tang, honey for sweetness, or extra basil for added herbiness.
Step 5: Transfer the dressing to an airtight container or jar. Refrigerate for up to one week. Shake or stir well before each use as separation may occur naturally.

Tips & Variations

For a lighter version, substitute half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt without compromising creaminess.
Add a teaspoon of honey if you prefer a slightly sweeter dressing.
Fresh basil can be used instead of dried for a brighter, fresher flavor—use about a tablespoon finely chopped.
This dressing works great as a dip for veggies or a sauce for grilled chicken as well as a salad topper.

Storage

Store the creamy Italian dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Before each use, give it a good shake or stir to recombine any separated ingredients. Refrigerated dressing may thicken slightly; if needed, stir in a teaspoon of water or olive oil to loosen it before serving.

How to Serve

A clear glass jar filled with a creamy white sauce speckled with black herbs sits centered on a black round plate, which is placed on a white marbled surface; a shiny metal spoon is resting inside the jar on the right side, slightly sticking out. In the upper left corner, part of a white bowl is visible, filled with shredded pale cabbage mixed with small pieces of red and orange bell peppers and thin slices of purple onion. The image captures a close-up view of the textures and colors with natural light. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this dressing ahead of time?

Yes, this dressing can be made up to one week in advance and stored in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld and deepen over time.

Is this dressing suitable for vegans?

This recipe includes mayonnaise, sour cream, and Parmesan cheese, so it is not vegan. To make a vegan version, use plant-based alternatives for these ingredients.