Zesty Creamy Italian Dressing
Elevate your salads with this rich and flavorful Zesty Creamy Italian Dressing. This homemade dressing combines the tanginess of red wine vinegar with the creaminess of sour cream and the depth of grated parmesan cheese. Perfect for drizzling over fresh greens, tossing with roasted vegetables, or even as a dipping sauce for your favorite appetizers. Enjoy a burst of Italian flavor in every bite, making it a delightful addition to any salad platter or light meal. Easy to prepare, this dressing can be made in just minutes, ensuring you always have a delicious dressing on hand for your culinary creations.
3
Servings
167
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Red wine vinegar
2 tablespoons (None)
Salt
1/2 teaspoon (None)
Black pepper
1/4 teaspoon (Freshly ground is recommended)
Olive oil
1/2 cup (Extra virgin for best flavor)
Garlic
1 clove (Minced)
Sour cream
3 tablespoons (None)
Grated parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons (Freshly grated for optimal flavor)
Instructions
1
Start by gathering all ingredients and prepare the garlic by mincing it finely.
2
In a blender, combine red wine vinegar, salt, black pepper, minced garlic, and sour cream. Blend on medium speed for about 15 seconds until well incorporated.
3
Gradually add olive oil while continuing to blend on high speed. This will help emulsify the dressing, making it creamy.
4
Finally, add the grated parmesan cheese and pulse for another 5-10 seconds to mix well.
5
Taste and adjust seasoning if desired. Serve immediately or refrigerate in an airtight container for up to one week.
Nutrition Information
17g
Fat
1g
Carbs
2g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Zesty Creamy Italian Dressing?
It is a rich, flavorful homemade dressing that combines red wine vinegar, sour cream, and grated parmesan cheese.
What are the primary ingredients needed?
You will need red wine vinegar, salt, black pepper, olive oil, garlic, sour cream, and grated parmesan cheese.
How do I make the dressing creamy?
The creaminess comes from the addition of sour cream and the proper emulsification of olive oil during blending.
Can I substitute the red wine vinegar?
Yes, you can use apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar, though the flavor profile will change slightly.
What type of olive oil is best for this recipe?
Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for the best and most authentic flavor.
Is this Italian dressing healthy?
Yes, it is a homemade alternative to store-bought dressings, containing fresh ingredients without artificial preservatives.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving contains approximately 167 calories.
How long can I store this dressing?
You can store the dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Can I freeze Zesty Creamy Italian Dressing?
Freezing is not recommended as the dairy and oil components may separate and change texture once thawed.
What are some serving suggestions?
It is perfect for fresh green salads, tossed with roasted vegetables, or served as a dip for appetizers.
Can I make this dressing dairy-free?
You can attempt a dairy-free version by using a vegan sour cream substitute and nutritional yeast or vegan parmesan.
How should I prepare the garlic?
The garlic should be finely minced before being added to the blender for even distribution.
Does this recipe contain any sugar?
No, this recipe contains 0 grams of sugar.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to yield 3 servings.
Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
While fresh is best, you can substitute 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder if fresh cloves are unavailable.
What is the preparation time?
The dressing can be prepared in just a few minutes using a blender.
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Yes, plain Greek yogurt is a common and healthy substitute for sour cream in this recipe.
Is this Italian dressing gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free.
How much fat is in each serving?
There are 17 grams of fat per serving.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, the ingredients can easily be doubled or tripled for larger gatherings.
What equipment do I need to make this?
You will need a blender or food processor to properly combine and emulsify the ingredients.
Should I use freshly grated parmesan?
Yes, freshly grated parmesan cheese provides optimal flavor and a better texture compared to pre-grated versions.
Why is my dressing separating?
Separation occurs if the oil isn't fully emulsified; ensure you add the oil slowly while blending on high speed.
What is the best way to emulsify the dressing?
Gradually stream the olive oil into the blender while it is running to ensure a thick, creamy consistency.
Can I use this as a marinade?
Yes, this dressing works excellently as a marinade for chicken, fish, or vegetables.
What is the protein content per serving?
There are 2 grams of protein per serving.
Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?
Yes, with only 1 gram of carbohydrates per serving, it is very low-carb.
Is this dressing keto-friendly?
Yes, the high fat and low carbohydrate content make it ideal for the ketogenic diet.
Can I make this without a blender?
You can whisk it vigorously by hand, but a blender is recommended for the creamiest texture.
What is the best storage container?
A glass jar or an airtight plastic container is best for keeping the dressing fresh in the fridge.