Zesty Italian Dressing – Barefeet in the Kitchen

Dijon mustard, garlic, oregano, and red pepper are delightfully brightened by fresh lemon juice in this Zesty Italian Dressing. So simple to make, it’s ready in just a few minutes!

Italian Dressing Marinade for Chicken

This dressing is fabulous on salads. And, it is also makes an awesome marinade for chicken, too. You don’t need to change a thing. Just shake it together, pour it over the chicken, and let it marinate.

You can use this zesty Italian dressing recipe on a pasta salad, too. Just add enough dressing to make it shiny when you toss it. The pasta doesn’t need to swim in it. Give it a bit of time to rest in the fridge and the flavors will mingle beautifully.

Is Italian Dressing Gluten Free?

For those of you with gluten concerns, I’ve got good news! While most big brands may contain gluten, this recipe makes a 100% gluten-free Italian salad dressing. And, it tastes better than anything you’ll find on store shelves.

This simple Italian dressing works just as well with gluten-free noodles. Or, give Zucchini Noodles a try for a refreshing twist in your favorite pasta salad.

Zesty Italian Dressing Recipe

• olive oil
• Dijon mustard
• lemon juice
• garlic cloves
• oregano
• red pepper flakes
• salt and pepper

To make this recipe, add all of the ingredients to a pint-size or larger glass jar or bottle. Seal with the lid and shake well to combine. It’s that easy.

This homemade Italian dressing keeps well in the refrigerator for a week or two. It’s been a flavor-packed staple in my home for years because it is so versatile.

Zesty Italian Dressing

I should probably warn you–once you start making your own dressings, you won’t want to go back. I adore creamy homemade ranch on a quick salad or as a dip with some spicy chicken bites.

I’ve posted a lot of custom salad dressing recipes, and there are still so many tasty flavors I’ve yet to play with! I can’t wait to try one of them on this caprese salad that caught my eye.

Now, I don’t use the word best very often. But, this recipe makes the best balsamic vinaigrette I have ever tasted. And, this creamy poppyseed dressing gets rave reviews too.