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Pasta salad dressing with fresh rotini, colorful peppers, red onions, and feta cheese.

Homemade Pasta Salad Dressing

This homemade pasta salad dressing is quick, zesty, and packed with flavor. Made with olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, and herbs, it clings perfectly to warm pasta for bold, tangy flavor in every bite. It’s perfect for Italian-style pasta salads and way better than anything in a bottle.
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Course: Condiment, Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Italian
Diet: Vegetarian
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 6 Servings
Calories: 170kcal
Author: Abby Pinkmann
Cost: $3

Equipment

  • 1 Mason jar With lid, for shaking dressing
  • 1 Measuring spoons For accurate seasoning
  • 1 Whisk (optional) If not using a jar

Ingredients

  • ½ cup Olive oil Extra virgin recommended
  • ¼ cup Red wine vinegar Or white wine vinegar
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard Helps emulsify dressing
  • 1 clove Garlic Minced
  • ½ tsp Dried oregano Or use Italian seasoning
  • ½ tsp Salt Adjust to taste
  • ¼ tsp Black pepper Freshly ground
  • 1 tsp Honey optional Balances acidity

Instructions

  • Add ingredients to a mason jar or bowl.
  • (Include olive oil, vinegar, mustard, garlic, oregano, salt, pepper, and honey if using.)
  • Shake or whisk until well combined and emulsified.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning. Add more honey for sweetness or vinegar for zing.
  • Use immediately on warm pasta or store in the fridge for up to 1 week. Shake before each use.

Notes

This dressing works best when added to pasta while it’s still slightly warm.
Shake before each use as ingredients may settle.
Great with rotini, penne, shells, or as a marinade for grilled vegetables.

Nutrition

Calories: 170kcal | Fat: 18g | Sodium: 150mg | Potassium: 20mg