Name: Homemade Pasta Salad Dressing Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Cuisine: International
Ingredients: 3/4 cup extra virgin olive oil (or your preferred oil); 1/4 cup vinegar (red wine, white wine, apple cider, or balsamic); 2 tablespoons Dijon or whole-grain mustard; 1 tablespoon minced garlic (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder); 1 tablespoon dried herbs (Italian seasoning, basil, oregano, or your favorite blend); 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste); 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste); 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for a touch of sweetness)

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Introduction

This homemade pasta salad dressing is a simple yet flavorful blend that brightens up any pasta salad. Made with olive oil, vinegar, and aromatic herbs, it’s quick to prepare and can be customized to suit your taste. Perfect for a light lunch or as a side at your next gathering.

A large white bowl filled with a fresh salad made of several layers: the base is bright green lettuce leaves with a crisp texture, mixed with thin slices of purple onion scattered throughout. On top of this layer, there are halved red cherry tomatoes, small black olive slices, yellow pepperoncini peppers, and chunky pieces of golden brown croutons with a toasted texture. A woman's hand is pouring a golden yellow dressing over the salad from a rustic white ceramic pitcher with a rough texture. The background shows a white marbled surface and stacked white plates blurred out. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

3/4 cup extra virgin olive oil (or your preferred oil)
1/4 cup vinegar (red wine, white wine, apple cider, or balsamic)
2 tablespoons Dijon or whole-grain mustard
1 tablespoon minced garlic (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
1 tablespoon dried herbs (Italian seasoning, basil, oregano, or your favorite blend)
1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste)
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for a touch of sweetness)

Instructions

Step 1: Assemble all ingredients, ensuring your herbs and vinegar are fresh and high quality for the best flavor.
Step 2: In a jar or bowl, combine the olive oil and vinegar to create the dressing base.
Step 3: Add the minced garlic or garlic powder to the mixture, stirring to infuse the flavors.
Step 4: Mix in the dried herbs, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to season the dressing.
Step 5: Whisk in the mustard to help emulsify the dressing and create a smooth texture. Taste and add honey or maple syrup if you want a bit of sweetness.
Step 6: If using a jar, seal and shake vigorously until all ingredients are well combined. If using a bowl, whisk briskly until emulsified.
Step 7: Pour the dressing over your pasta salad and toss gently to coat. Alternatively, serve on the side for guests to add their preferred amount.

Tips & Variations

Use flavored oils or vinegars, like garlic olive oil or balsamic vinegar, to add extra depth to your dressing.
Fresh herbs can be substituted for dried if you prefer a brighter, fresher taste—use about three times the amount.
Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey or maple syrup to balance the acidity.
For a creamier dressing, stir in a spoonful of Greek yogurt or mayonnaise.

Storage

Store the dressing in an airtight container or jar in the refrigerator for up to one week. Always shake or whisk well before using, as the ingredients may separate over time. Bring to room temperature if the oil solidifies.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other oils besides olive oil?

Yes, you can substitute olive oil with avocado oil, sunflower oil, or any neutral-flavored oil you prefer. Each will slightly change the flavor profile but remains delicious.

How do I prevent the dressing from separating?

Mustard acts as an emulsifier to help keep the oil and vinegar combined. Always whisk or shake the dressing well before serving to redistribute the ingredients.