Italian Vinaigrette Salad Dressing Recipe

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This fresh and zesty Italian vinaigrette salad dressing adds bright flavor to any favorite salad, especially apple gorgonzola salad!

This Italian vinaigrette recipe is quick, healthy, and bursting with bold flavors. It’s perfect for any side salad and also makes a great marinade for meats. I actually think this is very similar to Buca Di Beppo salad dressing recipe.

With a handful of fresh produce and pantry staples, you’ll get a copycat recipe that rivals Buca di Beppo’s Italian vinaigrette. Pair it with an apple gorgonzola salad for a crisp, tangy bite every time.

This recipe is quick and easy to make AND to clean up using this personal blender. Just throw in the ingredients, blend for about 10 seconds, and voila! Done.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/3 cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 teaspoons dijon mustard
• 1/4 red onion, chopped
• 1 clove garlic, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Directions

1. Place all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth. 
2. Let the dressing sit at room temperature for 10 minutes to allow flavors to blend before using.
3. Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight jar and shake well before using the next day.

Perfect Pairing Ideas

• This Italian vinaigrette pairs beautifully with a crisp apple gorgonzola salad.
• The tangy vinegar balances the creamy gorgonzola cheese and sweet granny smith apples.
• For a more filling house salad, toss in provolone cheese, feta cheese, or roma tomatoes.
• This versatile dressing also complements antipasti salad or a main course dinner with Italian food favorites.

Storage

Store leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge and use within the next few days for the best flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Can I use red wine vinegar instead of apple cider vinegar? Yes. Red wine vinaigrette can be substituted for the apple cider vinegar, although it will change the flavor profile slightly. However, I do not recommend using rice vinegar or plain white vinegar.
• What’s the best way to mix this dressing? Using a blender makes it quick and easy, and keeps it smooth. However, you can also use a large bowl and whisk – just be sure to finely dice the garlic and onion. It will add some texture as well.
• How long does it last in the fridge? For best results, refrigerate in an airtight container and enjoy within one week. Shake well before serving.
• Can I add herbs? Yes. Dried oregano or fresh basil gives the dressing more italian food flavor and pairs nicely with any side salad or house salad.
• Is this recipe safe for all diets? This dressing is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free. Check product types and labels for most accurate nutritional information to confirm whether or not they align with your diet and personal nutritional needs.
• Can I freeze this salad dressing? ​No, freezing this salad dressing is not recommended.
• Can I swap the garlic for garlic powder? Yes. Use 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder if fresh garlic isn’t available, though fresh gives the best, most vibrant taste.
• Can I use a blender instead of whisking? Yes, a blender is actually preferred to keep the dressing smooth. A blender emulsifies faster and creates a thicker vinaigrette with a smooth, creamy texture.
• What salads pair best with this dressing? It’s perfect on house salad, side salad, antipasto salad, or as a copycat recipe for your fave restaurant meals, such as Buca Di Beppo’s apple gorgonzola salad.
• What if my dressing separates? This is natural. Shake or whisk again to recombine before serving.

This Italian vinaigrette is a flavorful, homemade dressing that transforms any salad into a little masterpiece. It’s an easy copycat recipe inspired by Italian food and classic Buca di Beppo flavors.
This recipe suits anyone craving bold, zesty flavors at home.

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Italian Vinaigrette Salad Dresing Recipe

This fresh and zesty Italian vinaigrette salad dressing adds bright flavor to any favorite salad, especially apple gorgonzola salad!

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Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Total Time 5 minutes mins

Servings: 1 cup

Course: Salad

Ingredients Method

Ingredients

  

• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/3 cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 teaspoons dijon mustard
• 1/4 red onion chopped
• 1 clove garlic chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Method

 

1. Place all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth.
2. Let the dressing sit at room temperature for 10 minutes to allow flavors to blend before using.
3. Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight jar and shake well before using the next day.