Whether you’re making an Italian classic or just want to add some pizzazz to a weekday meal, mix up a batch of this flavorful Italian seasoning and watch your favorite dishes come to life with rich, aromatic flavors. The best part? You can make it in minutes with ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen!
The information provided on this site is based on my personal experience living with alpha-gal syndrome. I consistently cite and link to expert sources, but nothing published on this site should be perceived as medical advice.
Alpha-gal sensitivities vary by person. You should understand your dietary restrictions, making any adjustments needed, and directing any questions to your physician.
If you love making Italian recipes in your alpha-gal friendly kitchen, you’ve probably reached for Italian seasoning more times than you can count. It’s a must-have spice blend that deserves a prominent spot in your spice rack. You can reach for it whenever you want to take just about any dish to the next level.
But did you know you can make a homemade spice blend with just a few simple ingredients? Yep, it’s easier than you think, and you can customize it to suit your taste!
In This Article
What is Italian Seasoning?
Italian seasoning brings the flavors of Italy right to your spice rack. This blend of dried herbs perfectly mimics the fresh, vibrant flavors you’d find in a Tuscan kitchen. Italian seasoning typically includes a mix of dried basil, oregano, rosemary, thyme, and marjoram. But, of course, no two blends are the same. Some variations include parsley flakes, dried sage, garlic powder, and even a hint of crushed red pepper flakes if you want to spice things up a bit.
Is Oregano the Same as Italian Seasoning?
To clear up any confusion, oregano and Italian seasoning are not the same thing. Yes, oregano is a key ingredient in Italian seasoning, but it’s just one herb in a much bigger flavor party. While oregano brings that earthy, slightly peppery taste, Italian seasoning goes further with other dried herbs like basil, rosemary, thyme, and marjoram (and sometimes more). If you’re out of oregano, you can usually use Italian seasoning as a substitute in a pinch. But using plain oregano as a stand-in for Italian seasoning? Not so much. You’d miss out on all those extra layers of flavor.
How to Make Italian Seasoning
Making this Italian seasoning blend is super simple and a great way to customize the flavors to your liking. All you need are a few dried herbs from your spice rack, and fatto — you’ve got a fresh batch of Italian seasoning.
Start with equal parts dried basil, oregano, rosemary, thyme, and marjoram. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can add dried parsley, garlic powder, or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a little kick. Once you’ve gathered everything, simply mix the ingredients in a small bowl or jar. Give it a gentle stir, and you’re done! Homemade seasoning magic in minutes.
Not only is this blend great to have on hand for your favorite Italian recipes, but making it yourself means you can tweak the ratios to fit your personal taste. Plus, it’s a lifesaver when you run out of store-bought seasoning and need an Italian seasoning substitute in a pinch!
Italian Seasoning Substitutes
Ever been halfway through a recipe only to find out you’re missing an ingredient? Well, if it’s Italian seasoning you lack, don’t panic! You can quickly whip up a substitute with a few dried herbs you probably already have in your kitchen.
The simplest option is a quick mix of dried basil and oregano. For every teaspoon of Italian seasoning the recipe calls for, just use ¾ teaspoon of dried basil and ¼ teaspoon of dried oregano.
You can get creative if you’ve got a little more time (and additional Italian-inspired herbs in your spice rack). Throw in rosemary, thyme, marjoram, and/or parsley to add even more flavor to Italian-style dishes.
Italian Seasoning Uses
Italian seasoning is one of those magical spice blends that is simple yet adds so much to a dish. From giving a flavor boost to your favorite comfort foods to transforming a basic loaf of bread into a Mediterranean delight, here are some easy and delicious ways to use Italian seasoning in your everyday cooking.
- Pasta Sauces: Stir Italian seasoning into your favorite tomato-based sauce (yes, even a jarred one) for an instant flavor upgrade that tastes like it simmered all day. I always add a teaspoon or two to this easy Neopolitan sauce recipe.
- Italian Breadcrumbs: Mix Italian seasoning with plain breadcrumbs to turn them into flavorful Italian-style breadcrumbs. Perfect for coating chicken or adding a crunchy topping to casseroles.
- Soups: Add a little excitement to soups with a dash of Italian seasoning. It’s especially yummy in tomato, minestrone, and vegetable soup.
- Marinades: Whisk Italian seasoning into olive oil and vinegar to create a quick marinade for chicken, fish, or vegetables.
- Vinaigrette: Add Italian seasoning to your favorite homemade vinaigrette for a Mediterranean flair.
- Herb-Infused Dip: Add a pinch of Italian seasoning to olive oil for a simple yet flavorful dip for crusty bread. Perfect for starting a meal or snacking with some warm focaccia.
- Alpha-Gal Friendly Mains: Add a few sprinkles of this Italian seasoning blend to season chicken, cod, or salmon.
Related Article: How to Cook Frozen Salmon in the Air Fryer Fast
Homemade Italian Seasoning
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon dried rosemary
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon dried marjoram
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley
Instructions
- Pour the dried herbs into a small bowl and gently mix to combine.
- Transfer the homemade Italian seasoning to a spice jar or another type of airtight container. Just like any spice, it’s important to keep your Italian seasoning in a cool, dry spot — away from sunlight and heat sources like your oven or stovetop. Heat and moisture are the enemies here, as they can cause your dried herbs to lose their flavor and clump over time.
Nutrition
Please Note: Nutrition information is automatically calculated. It should only be used as an approximation.
