French-Italian Salad Dressing Mix Recipe
Prep Time: 5 hours 30 minutes
Cook Time: None
Total Time: 5 hours 30 minutes
Yield: 1 1/4 cups of dressing mix
Description:
When you can’t decide between the tangy zest of Italian dressing and the smooth, creamy texture of French dressing, why not have the best of both worlds? This French-Italian Salad Dressing Mix combines both flavors to create a unique dressing that will elevate your salads. With a perfect balance of spices, herbs, and a touch of sweetness, this homemade dressing mix is an easy pantry staple. Inspired by the Make a Mix Cookery Cookbook from 1980, this recipe provides a delicious shortcut to a fresh, flavorful dressing whenever you need it.
Ingredients for the Salad Dressing Mix
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Granulated sugar | 3 tbsp |
| Salt | 3/4 tsp |
| Ground pepper | 1/8 tsp |
| Dry mustard | 1/2 tsp |
| Paprika | 1/2 tsp |
| Dried oregano leaves | 1/2 tsp |
| Instant minced garlic | 1/8 tsp |
| Canola oil | 1 1/2 tbsp |
| Red wine vinegar | 1/2 tbsp |
| Ketchup | 1/4 cup |
Nutritional Information (Per 1 tablespoon serving of mixed dressing)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 1004.5 kcal |
| Total Fat | 88 g |
| Saturated Fat | 6.5 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 2470.2 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 57.1 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.2 g |
| Sugars | 52.7 g |
| Protein | 2.3 g |
Instructions for Preparing the French-Italian Dressing Mix
| Step | Instruction |
|---|---|
| 1 | In a medium-sized bowl, combine all the dry ingredients—granulated sugar, salt, ground pepper, dry mustard, paprika, dried oregano, and instant minced garlic. Stir well to ensure that everything is evenly mixed. |
| 2 | Transfer the mixed dry ingredients into an airtight container. This mix can be stored for up to 6 months in a cool, dry place, making it a convenient dressing mix to keep on hand for quick use. |
| 3 | When you’re ready to make the dressing, combine 1 packet of the seasoning mix with canola oil, red wine vinegar, and ketchup in a blender. Blend at high speed for about 7 seconds, or until smooth and well-combined. |
| 4 | Pour the dressing into a 2-cup container with a tight-fitting lid. Let the dressing sit at room temperature for about 5 hours to allow the flavors to meld. |
| 5 | After the resting time, refrigerate the dressing for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow it to thicken and cool. |
| 6 | Once chilled, pour over your favorite salad and enjoy the delightful combination of French and Italian flavors in each bite! |
Tips for the Perfect French-Italian Dressing
- Make Ahead: This mix can be made in large batches and stored for up to six months, so it’s a great option for busy weeknights or entertaining. Keep it on hand for a quick and easy dressing option.
- Customization: Feel free to adjust the amount of sugar or vinegar to suit your personal taste. If you like a sweeter dressing, you can add a bit more sugar. For extra tang, increase the vinegar or add a touch of lemon juice.
- Serving Suggestions: This dressing is perfect for green salads, pasta salads, or even as a marinade for grilled vegetables or chicken.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This French-Italian Salad Dressing Mix is an incredibly easy and affordable way to enjoy homemade dressing without the hassle of buying store-bought options. With just a few pantry staples, you can create a dressing that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for any salad. It’s the ideal balance of tangy, savory, and slightly sweet—making it a versatile dressing that pairs well with a variety of dishes. Plus, since it’s made in advance, you’ll always have a fresh, flavorful option on hand for those days when you don’t have time to whip up a dressing from scratch.
