Zesty Italian Seasoning
Add this Zesty Italian Seasoning Mix to your spice cabinet to kick up your next meal. This simple homemade seasoning takes about one minute to make and can be used on everything from chicken and vegetables to pasta salad. It’s an easy way to add plenty of Italian flavor without overpowering your food.
I think making your own seasoning blends really does give you the best flavor, and this Italian seasoning mix is no exception. I’ve used it in pasta salad, on baked sweet potatoes, and to season chicken thighs before baking.
The whole family agrees that the flavor is the best part of this simple recipe, and I love that I can mix up a batch and keep it right in the spice cabinet. It’s so nice to have homemade seasoning ready to grab whenever dinner needs a little extra flavor.
Be sure to try my Coffee Rub and Seasoning Salt for two other really easy homemade spice blends.
Ingredients
- Dried oregano – One of the classic herbs that gives this blend its Italian flavor.
- Dried basil – Adds a slightly sweet, savory flavor.
- Dried thyme – This is a simple addition that blends in well with the other spices.
- Dried rosemary – I love the hint of rosemary flavor.
- Garlic powder – Adds plenty of garlic flavor without needing fresh garlic.
- Black pepper – For flavor.
- Crushed red pepper flakes – Give the seasoning its zesty kick without making it overly spicy.
See recipe card for quantities.
How to Make Zesty Italian Seasoning
Step One: Add all the ingredients to a small bowl and mix well. Transfer to an airtight container and store in your spice cabinet.
Step Two: Use on chicken, pork, seafood, vegetables, and more.
Top Tip💡
The crushed red pepper flakes are optional. I like the little bit of heat they add, but you can leave them out if you prefer a mild Italian seasoning.
Substitutions
- Onion powder – Add some along with the garlic powder for another layer of flavor. You can also use it in place of the garlic powder if needed.
- Other herbs – You can add or swap any herbs you like. Parsley is a popular addition.
Variations
- Salt – I leave the salt out so I can season each dish separately, but you can certainly add some to the blend. Garlic salt is another option, but keep in mind that it will make the seasoning considerably saltier.
- More heat – Add extra crushed red pepper flakes if you like a spicier seasoning.
- Finer texture – Crush the dried herbs between your fingers or pulse the mixture briefly in a spice grinder if you prefer a finer blend.
Be sure to check out this Italian Herb Chicken as a great recipe to try!
Equipment
All you need to make this mix is a small bowl and a spoon or whisk. You’ll also want to have an airtight storage container or spice jar.
Storage
Store homemade Zesty Italian Seasoning in an airtight container in a cool, dry, dark place, such as your spice cabinet.
For the best flavor, use it while the herbs are still fragrant. If you open the jar and barely smell anything, it’s probably time to make a fresh batch.
Common Questions
There are so many options. Sprinkle over chicken, pork chops, roasted vegetables, grilled veggies, potatoes, or even garlic bread. You can also stir it into pasta salads, pasta sauces, dips, marinades, and homemade salad dressing.
To turn this seasoning into a dressing, add 2 tablespoons of the seasoning, 1/2 cup olive oil, 1/4 cup red wine vinegar, and 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard to a mason jar. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes before serving so the dried herbs have time to soften and the flavors can blend. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Make sure the lid is tight and shake well before serving.
It has a little kick from the crushed red pepper flakes, but it isn’t overly spicy. If you’re sensitive to heat, leave them out. If you want more heat, simply add a little extra.
Absolutely. This is the perk of making it yourself. If you find that you prefer a stronger rosemary flavor, just add more of that. You can also make it hotter by adding more red pepper flakes.
Give it a quick look and smell before using it. If the seasoning has lost most of its aroma, it won’t add as much flavor to your food. Clumping can also be a sign that moisture has gotten into the container, especially if the mixture was previously loose and dry.
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Zesty Italian Seasoning Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- 1 tbsp dried basil
- 2 tsp dried thyme
- 2 tsp dried rosemary
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Mix together the ingredients.
- Store in an airtight jar or container.
Nutrition
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