16 Ken's Northern Italian Dressing Recipe Cook Up Something Special!
Published on: Mar 15, 2024
Ken's Northern Italian dressing is a flavorful and versatile recipe that is perfect for any salad or dish that needs a burst of Italian flavor. Made with simple and fresh ingredients, this dressing is easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. In this article, we will dive deeper into the ingredients and steps to make this delicious dressing, and explore some creative ways to use it in your cooking.
Main Ingredients: Rotini Pasta, Italian Dressing, Genoa Salami
If you're looking for a fresh and flavorful side dish to complement your beer can chicken, try this delicious pasta salad with Italian dressing. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that is sure to impress your guests.
The key to this recipe is the Italian dressing, which adds a tangy and zesty flavor to the pasta. You can use store-bought dressing or make your own with olive oil, vinegar, herbs, and spices.
To make this pasta salad, start by cooking your preferred pasta according to the package instructions. Once the pasta is al dente, drain it and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Then, toss the pasta with the Italian dressing, chopped fresh herbs, and your choice of veggies, such as cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and cucumbers.
For an extra kick of flavor, add in some crumbled feta or grated Parmesan cheese. This pasta salad is perfect for picnics, potlucks, or any summer gathering.
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Insanely Good Pasta Salad With Italian Dressing
Main Ingredients: Rotini Pasta, Red Bell Pepper, Green Bell Pepper, Genoa
This pasta salad with Italian dressing takes things up a notch with the addition of grilled chicken. Marinated in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and Italian herbs, the chicken is tender and flavorful. Simply grill the chicken until cooked through and add it to the pasta salad for a protein-packed dish.
To make this pasta salad even more irresistible, add in some fresh mozzarella balls or chunks of salami. The creamy and salty flavors will pair perfectly with the tangy dressing. You can also add in some olives and artichoke hearts for a delicious antipasto twist.
With just a few simple additions, this pasta salad with Italian dressing becomes an insanely good dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
If you're looking for a quick and easy main dish to serve alongside your beer can chicken, try this Italian dressing chicken. With just three ingredients, it couldn't be simpler to make.
All you need is some boneless, skinless chicken breasts, Italian dressing, and a grill. Simply marinate the chicken in the dressing for at least an hour, then grill until cooked through. The result is tender and juicy chicken with a flavorful crust.
This Italian dressing chicken is perfect for a busy weeknight meal or a summer barbecue. Serve it with some grilled veggies and a side of pasta salad for a complete and delicious meal.
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Antipasto Salad with Easy Italian Dressing
Main Ingredients: Romaine, Prosciutto, Salami, Artichoke Hearts, Olives
For a salad that is both hearty and refreshing, try this antipasto salad with easy Italian dressing. This salad is filled with all the classic antipasto ingredients, like salami, prosciutto, cheese, and olives, but it's the dressing that takes it to the next level.
To make the dressing, simply mix together olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, and Italian herbs. Toss the dressing with the salad ingredients, then let it sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
This antipasto salad is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish with your beer can chicken. Plus, it's a great way to use up any leftover antipasto ingredients you may have on hand.
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Delicious London broil
Main Ingredients: London Broil, Italian Dressing, Soy Sauce, Honey
For a meaty and flavorful main dish to serve alongside your beer can chicken, try this delicious London broil. This cut of beef is marinated in a mixture of Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, garlic, and Italian herbs, then grilled to perfection.
The result is a tender and juicy steak with a delicious crust. Serve it thinly sliced alongside your chicken for a surf-and-turf meal that will impress your guests.
For an extra burst of flavor, try topping your London broil with a herb butter. Simply mix softened butter with chopped fresh herbs, like rosemary, thyme, and parsley, and spread it over the hot steak. The butter will melt and infuse the steak with even more delicious flavor.
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Garden Veggie Pasta Salad
Main Ingredients: Rotini Pasta, Grape Tomatoes, English Cucumber
This garden veggie pasta salad is the perfect side dish to serve with your beer can chicken. It's filled with fresh and colorful vegetables, like zucchini, carrots, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes, and tossed in a tangy Italian dressing.
To make this pasta salad even more filling, add in some cannellini beans or chickpeas. These legumes will add protein and fiber to the dish, making it a more well-rounded meal.
This garden veggie pasta salad is perfect for a summer barbecue or a potluck. Plus, it's a great way to use up any extra veggies you may have in your fridge.
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Perfect Chicken Tenders
Main Ingredients: Chicken Tenders, Italian Dressing, Honey, Lime Juice
If you're looking for a kid-friendly main dish to serve alongside your beer can chicken, these perfect chicken tenders are just the thing. These tenders are crispy and flavorful, and they're sure to be a hit with the whole family.
To make these chicken tenders, start by marinating chicken breast strips in Italian dressing for at least an hour. Then, dip the chicken in a mixture of flour, eggs, and Italian breadcrumbs, and fry until golden brown and cooked through.
These perfect chicken tenders are great for dipping in your favorite sauces, like honey mustard or ranch. They're also perfect for a game day spread or a quick weeknight meal.
This Italian pasta salad is a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with beer can chicken. It's filled with all the traditional ingredients, like pepperoni, cheese, and olives, and tossed in a tangy Italian dressing.
To make this pasta salad even more flavorful, add in some sliced bell peppers and red onion. These veggies will add a nice crunch and a pop of color to the dish.
For a more substantial meal, add in some cooked and cooled pasta to the salad. You can use your favorite shape, such as penne or rotini, to make it even more fun and interesting.
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Spaghetti Salad with Italian Dressing
Main Ingredients: Thin Spaghetti, Italian Dressing, Mayonnaise, Red Bell
If you're a fan of spaghetti, you'll love this spaghetti salad with Italian dressing. This salad combines all the classic flavors of spaghetti, like tomatoes, garlic, and basil, in a refreshing and easy-to-eat form.
To make this salad, simply cook spaghetti according to the package instructions, then toss it with the dressing and your choice of veggies and meats. You can also add in some shredded Parmesan cheese for an extra burst of flavor.
This spaghetti salad is perfect for a potluck or barbecue and makes a great side dish for your beer can chicken. Plus, it's a great way to switch things up from traditional pasta salad.
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Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet (ONLY 6 INGREDIENTS!)
Main Ingredients: Italian Dressing, Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts
If you're in need of a quick and easy weeknight meal, look no further than this chicken Parmesan pasta skillet. With just six ingredients, it's a simple and delicious dish that will please the whole family.
To make this skillet, start by cooking penne pasta according to the package instructions. While the pasta is cooking, sauté some chicken breast in a skillet until cooked through. Then, add in some marinara sauce and the cooked pasta, and top with shredded mozzarella cheese. Cover and let the cheese melt, then serve topped with some grated Parmesan cheese.
This chicken Parmesan pasta skillet is a great way to use up leftover chicken and pasta, and it's a delicious and filling meal to serve alongside your beer can chicken.
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Pasta Salad With Italian Dressing
Main Ingredients: Dry Pasta, Italian Salad Dressing, Prosciutto, Mini
This pasta salad with Italian dressing is a classic dish that never gets old. It's the perfect side dish to serve with your beer can chicken, and it's always a crowd-pleaser.
To make this pasta salad, start by cooking your choice of pasta according to the package instructions. While the pasta is cooking, prepare the dressing by mixing olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, and Italian herbs. Once the pasta is done, toss it with the dressing and your choice of veggies, like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers.
This pasta salad is great for any occasion, from a summer barbecue to a potluck. And with just a few simple ingredients, it's easy to make and always a hit.
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Crock Pot Shredded Chicken with Onion Soup & Italian...
Main Ingredients: Boneless Chicken Breast, Water, Italian Salad Dressing
For a hands-off main dish to serve with your beer can chicken, try this crock pot shredded chicken with onion soup and Italian dressing. With just three ingredients, it's a simple and flavorful dish that you can set and forget.
To make this chicken, simply place boneless, skinless chicken breasts in a crock pot and top with a packet of dry onion soup mix and a bottle of Italian dressing. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, then shred the chicken with two forks. Serve alongside your beer can chicken for a delicious and easy meal.
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Perfect Pasta Salad
Main Ingredients: Spiral Pasta, Italian Dressing, Seasoning Mix, Hard
This perfect pasta salad is a must-have side dish for any summer gathering. It's filled with all the classic pasta salad ingredients, like peas, cheese, and carrots, and tossed in a tangy and creamy dressing.
To make this pasta salad even more irresistible, add in some crumbled bacon and sliced black olives. These ingredients will add a depth of flavor and texture to the dish.
Make this perfect pasta salad for your next barbecue or potluck and watch it disappear in no time. And don't forget to serve it alongside your beer can chicken for a winning combination.
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Easy Cold Pasta Salad
Main Ingredients: Rotini Pasta, Broccoli Florets, Red Bell Pepper, Yellow
This easy cold pasta salad is the perfect dish to make ahead of time and serve with your beer can chicken. It's filled with fresh and colorful veggies, like cherry tomatoes, broccoli, and red onion, and tossed in a tangy and herby dressing.
To make this pasta salad, simply cook your choice of pasta according to the package instructions, then toss it with the dressing and veggies. You can also add in some cubed salami and shredded cheddar cheese for a heartier dish.
This easy cold pasta salad is perfect for a picnic, potluck, or any summer gathering. Plus, it's a great way to get your daily serving of veggies in a delicious and satisfying way.
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Baked Parmesan Garlic Chicken
Main Ingredients: Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts, Italian Dressing
This baked Parmesan garlic chicken is a delicious and easy main dish to serve alongside your beer can chicken. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that is full of flavor and sure to impress.
To make this chicken, start by marinating chicken breasts in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and Italian herbs. Then, coat the chicken in a mixture of grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and garlic powder, and bake until golden brown and cooked through.
This baked Parmesan garlic chicken is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Serve it with your beer can chicken and some roasted veggies for a complete and tasty meal.
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Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta
Main Ingredients: Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast, Italian Salad
This slow cooker Olive Garden chicken pasta is a copycat version of the popular restaurant dish. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and comforting meal that is perfect for a cozy night in.
To make this dish, simply place boneless, skinless chicken breasts in a slow cooker and top with a jar of Olive Garden Italian dressing and a block of cream cheese. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, then shred the chicken and mix in some cooked pasta. Serve alongside your beer can chicken for a hearty and satisfying meal.
This slow cooker Olive Garden chicken pasta is a great meal to make for a crowd, and it's sure to be a hit with everyone.
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Cowboy Caviar
Main Ingredients: White Shoepeg Corn, Frozen Corn On The Cob, Black
This cowboy caviar is a refreshing and flavorful side dish to serve with your beer can chicken. Filled with fresh and colorful veggies, like corn, black beans, and avocado, and tossed in a tangy dressing, it's the perfect complement to your main dish.
To make this cowboy caviar, simply mix together all the ingredients and let it sit in the fridge for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve it with tortilla chips for a delicious and easy appetizer, or use it as a topping for your beer can chicken.
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Crock Pot Lemon Chicken
Main Ingredients: Flour, Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts, Butter
This crock pot lemon chicken is a light and flavorful main dish that is perfect for serving alongside your beer can chicken. With just a few ingredients, you can create a dish that is perfect for a busy weeknight or a lazy weekend.
To make this chicken, simply place boneless, skinless chicken breasts in a slow cooker and top with lemon juice, garlic, and Italian herbs. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, then shred the chicken and serve it over cooked pasta or rice.
This crock pot lemon chicken is a great dish to have in your recipe arsenal, and it's sure to become a family favorite.
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Classic Pasta Salad
Main Ingredients: Rotini Pasta, Carrot, Peppers, Sliced Olives, Cheese
This classic pasta salad is a tried-and-true side dish that pairs perfectly with your beer can chicken. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that is both refreshing and satisfying.
To make this pasta salad, start by cooking your choice of pasta according to the package instructions. Once the pasta is done, toss it with a tangy dressing, some chopped veggies, and shredded cheese. You can also add in some cooked and cooled chicken for a heartier option.
This classic pasta salad is perfect for any occasion, from a summer barbecue to a potluck. Plus, it's a great way to use up any leftover ingredients you may have on hand.
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Simple Pasta Salad
Main Ingredients: Rotini Pasta, Italian Salad Dressing, Cucumbers
Ingredients
1. Olive Oil
The key ingredient in Ken's Northern Italian dressing is olive oil, which is a staple in Italian cuisine. It not only adds a rich and smooth texture to the dressing, but also provides healthy fats and antioxidants.
2. Red Wine Vinegar
To balance the richness of the olive oil, red wine vinegar is added to the dressing. This tangy and acidic ingredient adds a bright and refreshing flavor, making it perfect for salads and marinades.
3. Garlic
No Italian dressing is complete without garlic. It adds a bold and savory taste to the dressing, and also provides numerous health benefits such as boosting the immune system and reducing inflammation.
4. Dijon Mustard
For a touch of tanginess and creaminess, Dijon mustard is added to the dressing. It also acts as an emulsifier, helping to combine all the ingredients together for a smooth and creamy texture.
5. Italian Seasoning
To give the dressing its signature Italian flavor, Italian seasoning is added, which is a blend of herbs such as oregano, basil, and thyme. You can use a store-bought blend or make your own by mixing equal parts of these herbs.
6. Salt and Pepper
Lastly, salt and pepper are added to taste. These basic seasonings help to enhance the other flavors in the dressing and give it a well-rounded taste.
Steps to Make Ken's Northern Italian Dressing
1. Whisk together the olive oil and red wine vinegar
In a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of olive oil and 1/4 cup of red wine vinegar until well combined.
2. Add in the garlic and Dijon mustard
Next, add in 2 minced cloves of garlic and 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard to the bowl and whisk until fully incorporated.
3. Mix in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper
Add 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper to the bowl and whisk until all the ingredients are well combined.
4. Adjust seasoning to taste
Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning according to your preference. Add more salt and pepper if needed, or more Italian seasoning for a stronger flavor.
5. Use immediately or store in the fridge
You can use the dressing right away or store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Just give it a good shake before using as the oil may separate.
Ways to Use Ken's Northern Italian Dressing
1. As a salad dressing
The most common use for any dressing is, of course, on a salad. Drizzle Ken's Northern Italian dressing over your favorite greens, veggies, and protein for a delicious and healthy meal.
2. As a marinade
The flavor profile of this dressing makes it perfect for marinating meats, such as chicken or steak. Simply coat the meat in the dressing and let it sit for at least 30 minutes before grilling or baking.
3. As a pasta sauce
Get creative and use Ken's Northern Italian dressing as a pasta sauce. Toss it with your favorite pasta and add in some veggies, protein, and parmesan cheese for a quick and tasty meal.
4. As a dip
Add some extra Dijon mustard to the dressing and use it as a dip for veggies, crackers, or bread. It's a healthier alternative to store-bought dips and adds a burst of flavor to any snack.
In conclusion, Ken's Northern Italian dressing is a versatile and delicious recipe that can be used in many ways. With its simple ingredients and easy steps, it's a must-try for any Italian food lover. Don't be afraid to experiment and make it your own by adding in different herbs and spices. Enjoy!