This Italian dressing marinade is tangy, herby, and crazy easy to make. It’s the kind of all-in-one marinade that adds instant flavor to chicken, veggies, pork, or even tofu. You just mix everything in one bowl, pour it on, and let it do the work.
Why I Love This Recipe
This marinade reminds me of cookouts growing up—someone always had a bottle of Italian dressing ready to go. I started making my own version, and it’s way better (and just as fast). I use it for grilling, roasting, and even cold pasta salads when I’ve got extra.
Why it’s my go-to:
- 🧄 Full of zesty garlic and herbs
- ⏱️ Ready in 5 minutes
- 🌱 Works with meat and veggies
- 🧊 Tastes even better the longer it sits
- 🍽️ Doubles as a salad dressing too
⏰ Time to Make: 5 minutes
🍽️ Enough For: 1.5 to 2 pounds of protein or veggies
Ingredients
- ½ cup olive oil
- ¼ cup red wine vinegar
- 2 tbsp lemon juice (fresh)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dijon mustard
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes
How to Make Italian Dressing Marinade
1. Add Garlic, Mustard & Lemon Juice
In a small bowl or jar, combine minced garlic, dijon mustard, and lemon juice.
2. Add Vinegar and Olive Oil
Pour in the red wine vinegar and olive oil.
3. Add Herbs and Seasoning
Sprinkle in the oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
4. Whisk or Shake
Whisk the marinade until fully blended, or close the jar and shake well.
5. Use or Store It
Pour over protein or veggies and marinate for 30 minutes to 8 hours. Store leftovers in the fridge up to 1 week.
What to Serve With It
Once you’ve grilled or roasted your marinated food, pair it with:
- 🥔 Roasted potatoes or a baked potato
- 🍚 Rice or quinoa
- 🥗 Side salad with leftover dressing
- 🥖 Garlic bread or focaccia
- 🍅 Grilled veggies like zucchini, tomato, and peppers
FAQ
Can I use this on tofu or veggies?
Absolutely! It works great on zucchini, mushrooms, eggplant, and more.
Is it okay to use bottled lemon juice?
Fresh is best, but bottled works in a pinch.
How long can I marinate meat?
30 minutes minimum, up to 8 hours is great. Avoid overnight with more acidic marinades.
Can I reuse the marinade?
Not after it’s touched raw meat. If you want to use it as sauce, set some aside first.
What’s the best oil to use?
Olive oil gives the best flavor, but avocado oil works too!
Enjoy!
This Italian Dressing Marinade is simple, classic, and full of herby goodness. It’s one of those “tastes like summer” recipes that you’ll use again and again. 🍋🌿🔥