17 Lite Creamy Italian Dressing Recipe Unlock Flavor Sensations!
Published on: Mar 18, 2024
If you're a fan of creamy Italian dressing but looking for a healthier and more budget-friendly option, then this homemade lite creamy Italian dressing recipe is just what you need. Made with simple and wholesome ingredients, this dressing is not only full of flavor but also low in calories, making it perfect for those watching their weight or following a strict diet. With just a few basic kitchen staples and a few minutes of your time, you can whip up this delicious dressing that will make any salad or dish stand out. So put away that store-bought dressing and let's get cooking!
Italian Power Salad with White Beans, Sun-dried...
Main Ingredients: Canola Oil, Zucchini, Eggplant, Salt, Pepper, Spinach
This healthy and hearty salad is packed with protein and flavor. The combination of tender grilled chicken, creamy white beans, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes creates a mouthwatering dish that will satisfy your taste buds and keep you full for hours. Topped with a homemade Italian dressing, this salad is perfect for a light lunch or a filling dinner.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper
- 1 Tbsp. olive oil
- 1 can white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
- 4 cups mixed greens
- ¼ cup chopped red onion
- ¼ cup chopped fresh basil
- ¼ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- For the dressing:
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 Tbsp. balsamic vinegar
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tsp. Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked. Remove from heat and let cool.
In a small bowl, whisk together all the ingredients for the dressing. In a large bowl, combine the white beans, sun-dried tomatoes, mixed greens, red onion, and basil. Slice the cooled chicken and add it to the salad. Drizzle with the dressing and top with shredded Parmesan cheese.
This salad is a perfect way to get your protein and veggies in one dish. The flavors of the grilled chicken and sun-dried tomatoes pair perfectly with the creamy white beans and tangy dressing. Plus, with the addition of fresh basil, this salad has an Italian twist that will make your taste buds sing.
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Bowtie Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing
Main Ingredients: Farfalle Pasta, Creamy Italian Dressing, Grape
If you're looking for a crowd-pleasing side dish for your next BBQ or potluck, look no further than this bowtie pasta salad. This salad is loaded with colorful veggies, tangy Italian dressing, and tender pasta. It's a perfect combination of flavors and textures that will have everyone going back for seconds.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb. bowtie pasta
- Salt
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup diced cucumber
- 1 cup diced red pepper
- ½ cup sliced black olives
- ¼ cup chopped red onion
- For the dressing:
- ½ cup olive oil
- ¼ cup red wine vinegar
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tsp. dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water. In a large bowl, combine the pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red pepper, black olives, and red onion.
In a small bowl, whisk together all the ingredients for the dressing. Pour over the pasta salad and toss to coat. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving, allowing the flavors to meld together. Serve chilled and enjoy!
This pasta salad is a great way to showcase the fresh produce of the season. The colorful veggies add crunch and flavor, while the tangy Italian dressing ties everything together. This salad is sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
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Bubbly Cheese Garlic Bread
Main Ingredients: Garlic, Creamy Italian Salad Dressing, Italian Bread
What's better than garlic bread? Garlic bread with cheese, of course! This bubbly cheese garlic bread is a perfect side dish for any Italian-inspired meal. It's crispy, cheesy, and loaded with garlic flavor. Plus, it's incredibly easy to make.
Ingredients:
- 1 loaf of Italian bread
- ½ cup butter, softened
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 Tbsp. fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
Preheat your oven to 425°F. In a small bowl, mix together the butter, minced garlic, and parsley. Slice the Italian bread in half lengthwise and place both halves on a baking sheet, cut side up.
Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over both halves of the bread. Sprinkle the top with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Bake in the oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve warm and enjoy!
This garlic bread is a must-try for any garlic and cheese lover. The combination of crispy bread, creamy butter, and gooey cheese is irresistible. It's a perfect complement to any Italian dish or even as a snack on its own.
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Cold Tortellini Salad
Main Ingredients: Tortellini, Broccoli Flowerettes, Parmesan Cheese
This cold tortellini salad is a refreshing and satisfying dish that's perfect for a hot summer day. It's loaded with colorful veggies, tender tortellini, and a tangy vinaigrette dressing. It's easy to make and can be served as a side dish or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb. cheese tortellini
- Salt
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup diced cucumber
- 1 cup diced red pepper
- ½ cup sliced black olives
- ¼ cup chopped red onion
- ¼ cup chopped fresh basil
- For the dressing:
- ½ cup olive oil
- ¼ cup red wine vinegar
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tsp. Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cook the tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water. In a large bowl, combine the tortellini, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red pepper, black olives, red onion, and basil.
In a small bowl, whisk together all the ingredients for the dressing. Pour over the tortellini salad and toss to coat. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving, allowing the flavors to meld together. Serve cold and enjoy!
This tortellini salad is a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The tender tortellini, crunchy veggies, and tangy dressing make for a delicious and satisfying dish. It's a great way to cool down on a hot summer day.
This creamy Italian pasta salad is a twist on the classic cold pasta salad. It's loaded with colorful veggies, tender pasta, and a creamy, tangy dressing. It's a perfect side dish for any summer BBQ or potluck.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb. rotini pasta
- Salt
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup diced cucumber
- 1 cup diced red pepper
- ½ cup sliced black olives
- ¼ cup chopped red onion
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
- For the dressing:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 2 Tbsp. red wine vinegar
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tsp. dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water. In a large bowl, combine the pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red pepper, black olives, red onion, and parsley.
In a small bowl, whisk together all the ingredients for the dressing. Pour over the pasta salad and toss to coat. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving, allowing the flavors to meld together. Serve cold and enjoy!
This creamy Italian pasta salad is a great way to switch up your typical cold pasta salad. The creamy dressing adds a delicious tanginess to the dish, while the veggies and pasta provide a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
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Crab Salad
Main Ingredients: Shell Pasta, Imitation Crab Meat, Green Pepper, Cherry
This light and refreshing crab salad is a perfect summer dish. It's made with lump crab meat, crunchy veggies, and a zesty dressing. It's great as a sandwich filling or served on a bed of lettuce for a low-carb option.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb. lump crab meat
- 1 cup diced celery
- ½ cup diced red pepper
- 3 green onions, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
- For the dressing:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 Tbsp. Dijon mustard
- 1 Tbsp. lemon juice
- 1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
In a large bowl, combine the lump crab meat, celery, red pepper, green onions, and parsley. In a small bowl, whisk together all the ingredients for the dressing. Pour over the crab salad and toss to coat. Serve chilled and enjoy!
This crab salad is a great way to enjoy the fresh flavors of summer. The lump crab meat adds a delicate sweetness to the dish, while the dressing provides a tangy kick. It's a perfect option for a light lunch or a quick and easy dinner.
This Italian chopped salad is a hearty and flavorful dish that's perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner. It's loaded with crisp lettuce, salami, cheese, and a tangy Italian dressing. It's a salad that eats like a meal, and it's sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- 1 cup chopped radicchio
- 1 cup chopped salami
- 1 cup diced provolone cheese
- ½ cup sliced green olives
- ½ cup sliced black olives
- ½ cup chopped roasted red peppers
- ¼ cup chopped red onion
- For the dressing:
- ½ cup olive oil
- ¼ cup red wine vinegar
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 Tbsp. Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp. dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
In a large bowl, combine the romaine lettuce, radicchio, salami, provolone cheese, green olives, black olives, roasted red peppers, and red onion.
In a small bowl, whisk together all the ingredients for the dressing. Pour over the salad and toss to coat. Serve immediately and enjoy!
This Italian chopped salad is a perfect way to get your veggies in while still satisfying your hunger. The combination of flavors and textures in this salad is sure to please your taste buds and keep you full and satisfied.
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Easy Chicken Sorrento
Main Ingredients: Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast Halves, Salt, Pepper
This easy chicken Sorrento is a delicious and simple dish that's perfect for a busy weeknight. Tender chicken breasts are topped with a flavorful tomato sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. Serve it over your favorite pasta for a complete meal.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper
- 1 Tbsp. olive oil
- 1 jar (24 oz.) marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup chopped fresh basil
- For serving:
- Cooked pasta
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Preheat your broiler. Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and top each with a few spoonfuls of marinara sauce. Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese. Broil for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve the chicken over your favorite pasta and top with additional marinara sauce and fresh basil. This easy chicken Sorrento is a simple and delicious way to switch up your weeknight dinner routine.
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Peg's Salad - Italian Raw Veggie Salad
Main Ingredients: Cauliflower, Broccoli, Baby Carrots, Shredded
This Italian raw veggie salad, also known as Peg's salad, is a refreshing and healthy dish that's great as a side or a light lunch. It's loaded with crunchy veggies and tossed in a tangy Italian dressing. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful it becomes.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup chopped cucumber
- 1 cup chopped tomato
- 1 cup chopped red pepper
- 1 cup chopped yellow pepper
- 1 cup chopped red onion
- 1 can (15 oz.) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz.) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup chopped fresh parsley
- For the dressing:
- ½ cup olive oil
- ¼ cup red wine vinegar
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tsp. dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
In a large bowl, combine all the chopped veggies and beans. In a small bowl, whisk together all the ingredients for the dressing. Pour over the veggie mixture and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. Enjoy!
This Italian raw veggie salad is a great way to get your daily dose of veggies in a flavorful and satisfying way. The combination of crunchy veggies and tangy dressing is sure to become a family favorite.
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Poultry Dinner Budget-friendly
Main Ingredients: Bone In Chicken Thighs, Creamy Italian Salad Dressing
This budget-friendly poultry dinner is a perfect way to enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal without breaking the bank. Chicken thighs, potatoes, and green beans are cooked together in a flavorful marinade for an easy and budget-friendly meal that the whole family will love.
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken thighs
- Salt and pepper
- 2 Tbsp. olive oil
- 1 lb. baby potatoes, halved
- 1 lb. green beans, trimmed
- For the marinade:
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 Tbsp. soy sauce
- 2 Tbsp. honey
- 2 Tbsp. Dijon mustard
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp. dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Simple Ingredients for a Healthier Option
Low-Fat Greek Yogurt
One of the main ingredients in this lite creamy Italian dressing is low-fat Greek yogurt. Not only is it a healthier alternative to traditional mayonnaise or sour cream, but it also provides a rich and creamy texture to the dressing. Greek yogurt is also a great source of protein, calcium, and probiotics, making it a nutritious addition to your diet.
Fresh Herbs and Spices
Instead of using store-bought Italian seasoning, this recipe calls for fresh herbs and spices that you may already have in your pantry. These include garlic, parsley, basil, and oregano, which add a burst of flavor to the dressing without the added preservatives and sodium found in pre-packaged seasonings.
Lemon Juice
A splash of fresh lemon juice is added to this recipe to give the dressing a tangy and zesty kick. Not only does it add a refreshing taste, but lemon juice also contains vitamin C and antioxidants, making this dressing not only delicious but also nutritious.
Wholesome and Budget-Friendly
Making your own lite creamy Italian dressing not only allows you to control the ingredients and flavors, but it also saves you money. Store-bought dressings can be expensive, and often contain added sugars, unhealthy fats, and artificial ingredients. By making it at home, you can use wholesome ingredients and adjust the flavors to your liking, all while staying within your budget.
Perfect for Any Salad or Dish
This lite creamy Italian dressing is versatile and can be used on a variety of dishes, not just salads. It can be drizzled over roasted vegetables, used as a marinade for chicken or fish, or even as a dip for fresh veggies. The possibilities are endless, and it's a great way to add flavor and nutrition to your meals.
In conclusion, this homemade lite creamy Italian dressing is a must-try for anyone looking for a healthier and more affordable option. It's easy to make, packed with flavor, and can be used in a variety of dishes. So why not give it a try and taste the difference for yourself? Your body and wallet will thank you.
