Red Italian Dressing
A vibrant red Italian dressing with a sweet and tangy flavor profile, perfect for salads, marinades, or dipping, appealing to those who enjoy bold, homemade condiments.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine sugar, cooking oil, ketchup, vinegar, onion, and mustard seed in a blender.
- Blend until smooth and well mixed.
- Ready to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a sweeter dressing, adjust the sugar to your taste, or try using honey as a substitute. If you prefer a tangier flavor, increase the vinegar slightly. Feel free to add minced garlic or fresh herbs like basil for added depth. This dressing also works well as a marinade for grilled meats like Grilled Italian Sausage or as a dip for fresh veggies.
Serving Suggestions
This zesty dressing is perfect for drizzling over a fresh salad or using as a dip for appetizers. It pairs beautifully with Italian Marinated Vegetables or can be used to enhance Italian Breaded Pork Chops. For a light meal, try it over a bed of greens with some grilled chicken or shrimp.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Before using, give it a good shake or stir, as separation may occur. If you prefer a thinner consistency, you can whisk in a little water to loosen it up before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Red Italian Dressing contains roughly 329 calories, with 2g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (19% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dressing ahead of time?
Yes, this dressing can be made ahead of time. In fact, allowing it to sit for a few hours or overnight helps the flavors meld together. Just remember to give it a good shake before serving, as the ingredients may separate during storage.
Is this dressing suitable for vegan diets?
Yes, this dressing is suitable for vegan diets as it contains no animal products. The ingredients like sugar, oil, and vinegar are all plant-based. For a variation, consider using agave syrup instead of sugar for a different sweetness profile.
How can I adjust the spice level of the dressing?
To adjust the spice level, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or a dash of hot sauce. If you prefer a milder dressing, reduce the amount of onion or omit it altogether. Taste and adjust according to your preference for a balanced flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).