18 Healthy Recipe For Italian Dressing Prepare To Be Amazed!
Published on: Mar 16, 2024
Italian dressing is a classic and versatile addition to any salad or marinade. Not only is it delicious, but it also provides a healthier alternative to store-bought dressings that are often loaded with preservatives and unhealthy fats. Making your own Italian dressing at home is not only easy but also allows you to control the ingredients and customize it to your taste. In this article, we will share a healthy recipe for Italian dressing that is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Main Ingredients: Bananas, Old Fashioned Rolled Oats, Large Eggs, Pure
Who says beer can chicken can't be healthy? This 5-ingredient flourless banana bread recipe is not only delicious but also gluten-free and dairy-free. It's the perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth without any guilt. Plus, it's a great way to use up those overripe bananas sitting on your counter. Simply mix together mashed bananas, eggs, almond flour, honey, and baking soda, then pour into a greased loaf pan and bake for 30 minutes. Serve with a cold beer for a perfect balance of healthy and indulgent.
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Healthy Tuscan Chicken Pasta
Main Ingredients: Low Sodium Chicken Broth, Sun Dried Tomatoes, Italian
This Tuscan chicken pasta dish is a crowd-pleaser and a healthier alternative to the traditional creamy version. The creamy sauce is made with Greek yogurt, which adds a tangy twist and cuts down on calories. The chicken is cooked with garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach, giving it a burst of flavor. Toss with your favorite pasta and top with fresh basil for a simple but delicious meal.
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Easy One-Pot Pasta | Cozy & Healthy 20 Minute Dinner!
Main Ingredients: Dry Pasta, Grape Tomatoes, Garlic Cloves, Yellow Onion
If you're short on time but still want a comforting and healthy meal, this easy one-pot pasta is the way to go. It's packed with veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms for added nutrition. Simply cook your pasta, add the veggies and some chicken broth, and let it simmer until the pasta is tender. Top with some parmesan cheese and enjoy a cozy and satisfying dinner in just 20 minutes.
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Healthy Chicken Taco Bowl (Whole30!)
Main Ingredients: Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts, Salsa, Pepper
Take your taco game to the next level with this healthy chicken taco bowl recipe. The chicken is marinated in a flavorful blend of spices and lime juice, then grilled to perfection. Serve it over a bed of cauliflower rice and top with your favorite taco toppings for a Whole30-approved meal that will satisfy your cravings without the guilt.
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Healthy 5 Minute Avocado Toast
Main Ingredients: Avocado, Chopped Cilantro, Lime, Red Pepper Flakes
Avocado toast is all the rage these days, and for good reason. It's quick, easy, and oh-so-delicious. This healthy version adds a twist with a sprinkle of feta cheese and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Mash an avocado onto whole grain toast and top with feta cheese, cherry tomatoes, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a satisfying and nutritious breakfast or snack.
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Healthy Carrot Muffins
Main Ingredients: White Whole Wheat Flour, Baking Powder, Ground
Make your breakfast or snack time a little healthier with these delicious carrot muffins. The carrots add a natural sweetness and are packed with vitamin A, while the oats and almond flour add fiber and protein. Simply mix together grated carrots, oats, almond flour, eggs, maple syrup, and spices, then bake for 20 minutes. These muffins are perfect for a grab-and-go breakfast or a mid-day pick-me-up.
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Healthy Breakfast Quesadilla
Main Ingredients: Tortilla, Egg Whites, Spinach, Mushrooms, Shredded
This breakfast quesadilla is a great way to start your day with a healthy and filling meal. Eggs, spinach, and avocado provide protein and nutrients, while the whole grain tortilla adds fiber. Simply scramble some eggs, sauté spinach, and assemble your quesadilla with avocado and cheese. Cook until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted for a delicious and nutritious breakfast treat.
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Healthy Jambalaya
Main Ingredients: Large Shrimp, Low Sodium Chicken Broth, Olive Oil
Bring a taste of New Orleans to your kitchen with this healthy jambalaya recipe. Using brown rice instead of white adds fiber and whole grains to this classic dish. Andouille sausage, chicken, and shrimp are cooked with peppers, onions, and Cajun seasoning for a flavorful and satisfying meal. Serve with a cold beer for the perfect pairing.
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Healthy Broccoli Salad
Main Ingredients: Broccoli, Bacon, Plain Yogurt, Mayonnaise, Dijon
This healthy broccoli salad is a great side dish for any meal. Broccoli is a superfood, packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals, and this salad adds a delicious twist with the addition of bacon and dried cranberries. Toss together broccoli florets, bacon, dried cranberries, and a homemade dressing made with Greek yogurt, honey, and apple cider vinegar for a nutritious and tasty dish.
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Healthy Sesame Chicken
Main Ingredients: Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts, Jasmine Rice
Satisfy your Chinese takeout craving with this healthy sesame chicken recipe. The chicken is coated in a crispy whole wheat flour and sesame seed mixture and baked instead of fried. The homemade sauce is made with honey, soy sauce, and sesame oil for a sweet and tangy flavor. Serve over brown rice and top with green onions for a delicious and healthier alternative to the classic dish.
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Healthy Baked Bruschetta Chicken In 45 Minutes!
Main Ingredients: Flour, Large Eggs, Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts
This baked bruschetta chicken is a quick and easy dinner option that's perfect for busy weeknights. The chicken is topped with a homemade bruschetta made with tomatoes, basil, garlic, and balsamic vinegar. It's then baked until the chicken is cooked through and the tomatoes are slightly roasted. Serve with a side of whole wheat pasta for a complete and healthy meal.
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Healthy Chocolate Protein Shake
Main Ingredients: Ripe Bananas, Chocolate Protein Powder, Creamy Peanut
Looking for a post-workout snack or a quick breakfast on-the-go? This healthy chocolate protein shake has got you covered. With Greek yogurt, almond milk, protein powder, and cocoa powder, it's packed with protein and nutrients to keep you energized and satisfied. Add a banana for some natural sweetness and blend it all together for a delicious and healthy shake.
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Meal Prep – Healthy Roasted Chicken and Veggies
Main Ingredients: Chicken Breasts Boneless Skinless, Broccoli Florets
Meal prep doesn't have to be boring with this healthy roasted chicken and veggie recipe. Seasoned with herbs and spices, the chicken and veggies are roasted together for a flavorful and easy meal prep option. Simply divide into containers with some quinoa or brown rice and you'll have a week's worth of nutritious meals ready to go.
This healthy Mexican casserole is the perfect dish to feed a crowd. It's packed with lean ground turkey, black beans, corn, and peppers for a well-rounded and flavorful meal. Top with shredded cheese and bake until bubbly for a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional Mexican dishes.
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Healthy Banana Muffins
Main Ingredients: Whole Wheat Flour, Oats, Dark Brown Sugar, Baking Soda
Got some overripe bananas on hand? Use them to make these healthy banana muffins. The bananas add natural sweetness and moisture, while the whole wheat flour and oats add fiber and whole grains. Top with a sprinkle of chocolate chips for a sweet treat, or add some nuts for added protein and crunch.
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Healthy Banana Bread
Main Ingredients: Ripe Bananas, Coconut Sugar, Almond Milk, Extra Virgin
Another great way to use up those overripe bananas is with this healthy banana bread recipe. It's made with whole wheat flour and oats for a more nutritious twist on the classic treat. Add some walnuts or pecans for added crunch and healthy fats. Enjoy a slice for breakfast or as a snack with a cold beer for a delicious and satisfying combination.
Main Ingredients: Old Fashioned Oats, Frozen Strawberries, Vanilla
This strawberry shortcake smoothie is like dessert in a glass, but it's also healthy and satisfying. The oats add fiber and whole grains, while the Greek yogurt adds protein and creaminess. Blend together strawberries, bananas, oats, Greek yogurt, and a splash of almond milk for a delicious and nutritious smoothie that will keep you full and energized.
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Healthy Double Chocolate Banana Brownies
Main Ingredients: Rolled Oats, Coco, Baking Powder, Baking Soda, Salt
Indulge in a sweet treat without the guilt with these healthy double chocolate banana brownies. The bananas add sweetness and moisture, while the cocoa powder and dark chocolate chips give it a rich and chocolatey flavor. These brownies are flourless, gluten-free, and dairy-free, making them a delicious option for those with dietary restrictions.
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Healthy Chicken and Broccoli Stir-fry
Main Ingredients: Boneless And Skinless Chicken Breast, Broccoli, Garlic
This healthy chicken and broccoli stir-fry is a quick and easy dinner option that's also packed with nutrients. Chicken, broccoli, and bell peppers are cooked in a flavorful sauce made with soy sauce, honey, and ginger. Serve over brown rice or quinoa for a well-balanced and delicious meal.
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Healthy Pumpkin Muffins
Main Ingredients: White Whole Wheat Flour, Baking Soda, Ground Cinnamon
Get in the fall spirit with these healthy pumpkin muffins. The pumpkin adds moisture and natural sweetness, while the oats and almond flour add fiber and protein. Top with a sprinkle of cinnamon and pumpkin seeds for a delicious and healthy treat. Perfect for a breakfast on-the-go or a mid-day snack.
Ingredients You Will Need
Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Olive oil is the base of this dressing and provides a rich and flavorful taste. Opt for extra virgin olive oil, as it is the least processed and retains the most nutrients.
Vinegar
Traditional Italian dressing calls for white wine vinegar, but you can also use red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar for a different flavor profile. Balsamic vinegar can also add a touch of sweetness and depth to the dressing.
Herbs and Spices
To add the classic Italian flavor to your dressing, you will need dried oregano, dried basil, dried thyme, and garlic powder. You can also add in other herbs and spices such as rosemary, parsley, and red pepper flakes for a kick of heat.
Optional Add-ins
For a creamy and tangy twist, you can add plain Greek yogurt or Dijon mustard to your dressing. These ingredients not only add flavor but also provide a boost of protein and probiotics.
Instructions
1. In a jar or container with a lid, combine 1/2 cup of extra virgin olive oil, 1/4 cup of vinegar, and 1 teaspoon each of dried oregano, dried basil, and dried thyme.
2. Add in 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder and any additional herbs and spices of your choice.
3. If using, add in 1 tablespoon of plain Greek yogurt or Dijon mustard for a creamy dressing.
4. Seal the jar or container and shake vigorously until all ingredients are well combined.
5. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
6. Use immediately or store in the fridge for up to a week.
Ways to Use Italian Dressing
- Toss it with your favorite greens for a classic salad.
- Use it as a marinade for chicken, fish, or vegetables before grilling or roasting.
- Drizzle it over roasted vegetables for a flavorful and healthy side dish.
- Mix it with cooked quinoa or pasta for a quick and easy pasta salad.
- Use it as a dipping sauce for bread or raw vegetables.
Conclusion
Making your own Italian dressing at home is not only a healthier option but also allows you to get creative with different herbs and spices. With this simple and delicious recipe, you can enjoy the classic Italian flavors in a lighter and more nutritious way. Give it a try and elevate your salads and marinades with this homemade Italian dressing.