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Creamy Italian Dressing

Published on July 29, 2026
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Creamy Italian Dressing
Prep: 5 mins
Cook: 0 mins
Difficulty: Easy
Servings: 4 Servings

his is a dressing that combines the irresistible creaminess of Caesar (sans anchovies) with the zing and herbaceousness of Italian dressing. Pour it over literally any salad, use it to upgrade hoagies and sandwiches, drizzle it on top of pizza, or try it over roasted meat like chicken or steak. This is the upgrade your food has been waiting for.

Mayonnaise acts as an emulsifier, helping the oil and vinegar to combine for a smooth dressing that’s much more forgiving than your typical vinaigrette. If making this dressing ahead of time, shake it before using to evenly distribute the Italian seasonings, garlic, and Parmesan.

This recipe might seem to call for every dried green herb in the spice cabinet, but you also have the option to swap in an equal amount of Italian seasoning if you prefer. Don’t skimp on the Parmesan, and be prepared to sprinkle more on top of whatever you are serving this with.

Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 3 tablespoons white wine vinegar
  • 6 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 small clove garlic
  • 1/3 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese (about 3/4 ounce)
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme

Instructions

  1. Place 1/4 cup mayonnaise and 3 tablespoons white wine vinegar in a medium bowl and whisk to combine. While whisking, slowly add 6 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil and whisk until fully combined.
  2. Using a Microplane, grate 1 small garlic clove into the dressing. Add 1/3 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon dried basil, 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme. Stir to combine. Taste and season with more salt and pepper as needed.

Recipe Stats

  • Jul 29, 2026
  • Prep: 5 mins
  • Cook: 0 mins
  • Servings: 4 Servings
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