What's the Best Substitute for Italian Dressing?
Whether you're out of Italian Dressing or looking for a healthier alternative, finding the right substitute can save your recipe. Tangy vinaigrette-style dressing made with olive oil, vinegar, herbs, and spices, commonly used for salads and marinades In this guide, we'll explore the best substitutes that work in most recipes and help you achieve similar results.
Quick Answer
The best substitutes for Italian dressing are balsamic vinaigrette, homemade Italian dressing, or a simple oil and vinegar mixture with herbs.
Best Substitutes for Italian Dressing
Balsamic Vinaigrette
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- salads
- marinades
- vegetables
- pasta salads
- grilling
Description
Similar tangy dressing with balsamic vinegar base. Provides comparable acidity and flavor profile for salads and marinades.
Slightly sweeter and more complex than Italian dressing. May need to adjust herbs and spices.
Red Wine Vinaigrette
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- salads
- marinades
- vegetables
- pasta salads
- roasting
Description
Classic vinaigrette with red wine vinegar base. Provides similar tangy flavor with different acidity profile.
More acidic than Italian dressing. May need to add sugar or honey to balance.
Homemade Italian Dressing
Ratio
1:1 (1/2 cup olive oil + 1/4 cup vinegar + 1 tsp Italian seasoning + 1 tsp sugar + salt and pepper)
Best For
- salads
- marinades
- vegetables
- pasta salads
- grilling
Description
Fresh alternative using olive oil, vinegar, and Italian herbs. Provides authentic flavor with customizable ingredients.
Adjust herbs and spices to taste. Let sit for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Lemon Vinaigrette
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- salads
- vegetables
- fish
- chicken
- pasta salads
Description
Bright, citrusy alternative using lemon juice instead of vinegar. Provides fresh, tangy flavor for salads and vegetables.
More citrusy and less acidic than Italian dressing. Add herbs like oregano and basil.
Greek Dressing
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- salads
- vegetables
- marinades
- pasta salads
- grilling
Description
Mediterranean-style dressing with olive oil, lemon, and herbs. Provides similar tangy profile with Greek flavors.
More herbal and less sweet than Italian dressing. Often includes feta cheese flavor.
Apple Cider Vinaigrette
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- salads
- vegetables
- pork
- chicken
- pasta salads
Description
Sweet and tangy alternative using apple cider vinegar. Provides fruity acidity with herbal notes.
Sweeter and more fruity than Italian dressing. Add herbs like thyme and rosemary.
How to Choose the Right Substitute
When choosing a substitute for Italian Dressing, consider the recipe's requirements for taste, texture, and cooking method. Think about whether you need something that mimics the original exactly or if a different but complementary flavor would work. Also consider dietary restrictions and availability of ingredients.
Cooking Tips
Whisk dressing ingredients together vigorously to create a stable emulsion
Let homemade Italian dressing sit for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld before using
Store homemade dressing in the refrigerator for up to 1 week, bringing to room temperature before serving
Use Italian dressing as a marinade for meats, poultry, and vegetables
Add a pinch of sugar to balance acidity in homemade dressings
Shake or whisk dressing well before each use to recombine separated ingredients
Taste and adjust seasoning before serving, as flavors can change over time
Always taste and adjust seasonings when using substitutes
Consider the cooking method - some substitutes work better in certain applications