We’ve all been there—salad prepped, marinade planned, and bam, the Italian dressing is gone. No big deal, we’ve got your back! We’ve pulled together six easy substitutes to keep the flavor going strong.
From mixing up simple pantry staples to trying a few new combos, we’ve discovered some swaps that actually work. These replacements are so solid you might end up liking them even more than the original.
Whether you’re throwing together a quick weeknight salad or prepping for a barbecue feast, these alternatives deliver. We’ve tested them ourselves, and they’re foolproof.
Get ready to keep your recipes rolling without breaking a sweat. These easy substitutes for Italian dressing are here to save the day.
6 Easy Substitutes for Italian Dressing
Here are six quick and easy substitutes for Italian dressing that will have you covered in any situation.
1 – Balsamic Vinaigrette
You’ll never believe how easy it is to swap Italian dressing with balsamic vinaigrette. The base ratio is simple—1:1. Use the same amount you’d use for Italian dressing, and you’re good.
Balsamic vinaigrette has that tangy kick with a hint of sweetness. It’s lighter but still bold enough to bring out flavors. It’s great for salads, marinades, and drizzling over roasted veggies. The balsamic gives depth while the oil adds smoothness.
We found it pairs better with leafy greens and grilled meats. It’s less herby than Italian dressing, but it holds up. Just whisk it well before using. Done.
2 – Greek Dressing
This one substitute will save your recipe. Greek dressing works as a reliable Italian dressing stand-in.
It’s packed with olive oil, vinegar, and herbs. The flavors are bold yet smooth, with a slight tang. Use it in a 1:1 ratio for a seamless swap.
Greek dressing has a slightly creamier texture because of its oil content. It leans heavier on oregano and garlic compared to Italian dressing. That means salads and wraps will get an herby, Mediterranean twist.
It works better for pasta salads and cold dishes than marinades. The herby profile can overpower mild proteins if used too heavily. Shake it well before using, as it tends to separate. Keep it simple, and you’ll have a balanced swap for most recipes needing that Italian dressing kick.
3 – Lemon Juice and Olive Oil Mix
Some recipes insist on brightness, and we’ve got you covered with lemon juice and olive oil. This mix is simple, fresh, and reliable. Use two parts olive oil to one part lemon juice. Stir it well to blend before adding it to your dish.
It’s zesty with a rich, smooth finish. The flavor is lighter compared to Italian dressing but still adds balance. It works best for green salads and roasted veggies. Avoid using too much, as the tang can overpower.
This option lacks the herbs of Italian dressing, but you can sprinkle some dried oregano or basil if needed. It’s also a good base for marinades. Keep it fresh, keep it simple, and it’ll get the job done.
4 – Ranch Dressing
This one substitute will save your recipe with ease. Ranch dressing works as a creamy wildcard. It brings a tangy, herby vibe that’s slightly richer than Italian dressing. Use it as-is or thin it out with a splash of water or milk to match the consistency.
Use one part ranch dressing for one part Italian dressing. The flavor leans heavier, so it’s better for heartier dishes. Think pasta salads, wraps, or dips. It’s not the same in terms of spice, but it holds up with its bold punch of flavor.
It may not blend as well with lighter recipes like green salads. Ranch is thicker, so keep that in mind. Still, it’s handy. If you have ranch, you’re set to keep the dish going strong.
5 – Honey Mustard Dressing
If you’ve ever been stuck without Italian dressing, honey mustard is here to rescue your recipe. It’s creamy, tangy, and just sweet enough to make things interesting. The kick from mustard pairs well with leafy salads or sandwiches.
It’s thicker compared to Italian, so thinning it out with a splash of water helps. Go easy; a little goes a long way. Use one part honey mustard for one part Italian dressing. The flavor leans sweeter, offering a fun twist.
This swap works better in wraps, hearty salads, or as a topping for proteins. It may not fit as perfectly with lighter, zesty dishes. It’s bold but familiar, so you probably already know the vibe. If it sits in your fridge, it’s worth trying. Simple and solid for most cases.
6 – Homemade Italian Dressing
For those who love making their own salad dressings, this one’s for you. Homemade Italian dressing is easy and worth the effort. It’s perfect for customizing to fit your tastes.
A homemade batch boasts fresh flavors that store-bought versions just can’t match. You’ll need olive oil, vinegar, herbs, spices, and a jar to shake them up in. Our ratio is 2:1 oil to acid (vinegar or lemon juice). Shake it well before using, and adjust as needed.
Use it with pasta salads or as a marinade. It has a more rustic vibe than most store-bought types. We recommend trying new herb combinations according to your mood.
Andrew Gray is a seasoned food writer and blogger with a wealth of experience in the restaurant and catering industries. With a passion for all things delicious, Andrew has honed his culinary expertise through his work as a personal chef and caterer.
His love for food led him to venture into food writing, where he has contributed to various online publications, sharing his knowledge and insights on the culinary world. As the proud owner of CooksCrafter.com, Andrew covers a wide range of topics, including recipes, restaurant reviews, product recommendations, and culinary tips.
Through his website, he aims to inspire and educate fellow food enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive resource for all things food-related.