Italian Seasoning Recipe (So Easy, 5 Minutes!) - Wholesome Yum (2024)

FAQs

What is homemade Italian seasoning made of? ›

Ingredients in Italian Seasoning

Herbs: Basil and oregano are the base of this seasoning and provide great flavor, perfect for a wide range of dishes. Aromatic: Garlic powder, rosemary, and thyme add a fragrant depth, enhancing the overall flavor of this DIY Italian seasoning blend.

It's also easy to store and can last up to 6 months. To make Italian seasoning at home, simply combine dried herbs like parsley, oregano, rosemary and other spices in a small bowl or a mason jar, then seal the jar and keep it away from light and heat. Easy seasoning blend!

Garlic- is arguably one of the most common spices used. This savory flavor is a staple because it compliments cheese so well. Pepper- Fresh ground pepper is all over Italian food. Don't think you will ever find pre-ground pepper at your table, because Italians know the best pepper is the sort that is freshly ground.

Simply use equal parts basil and oregano! These are the main ingredients in Italian seasonings and the ones that have the strongest flavor profile. These are the main herbs that you need to make your own Italian seasoning. Honestly, if you have those two then you've got yourself a great substitute.

Anyone who cooks a lot of Italian food knows that there are three staple herbs that you can't go without: basil, oregano and garlic.

Italian Seasoning: Mediterranean Flavors

It typically contains a combination of dried basil, oregano, rosemary, thyme, and marjoram. Sometimes, sage, cilantro, and red pepper flakes may be included in the mix. Unlike Herbs de Provence, Italian seasoning does not contain lavender.

Dried herbs and spices may last 1–4 years, but it depends on the type of spice and how it's processed and stored. Generally, spices will lose their aroma and flavor potency over time.

The Health Benefits of Italian Seasoning

The herbs and spices in Italian seasoning are packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Basil, for example, is rich in vitamin K, which aids in blood clotting and bone health. Oregano contains a compound called carvacrol, which has antimicrobial properties.

MARJORAM, THYME, ROSEMARY, SAVORY, SAGE, OREGANO AND BASIL.

Ironically, oregano is not as commonly used in Italian cooking as other herbs, such as parsley or basil. Oregano is more flavorful in its dried form and is used more commonly in southern Italian and Sicilian dishes.

Do Italians use dried basil? ›

Basil. Basil is an aromatic herb essential to many Italian dishes, especially pesto. You can use it fresh in salads, dressings, or other cold dishes. Dried basil is also delicious in stews, soups, roasted meat, and sauces.

In addition to basil, parsley is one of the most commonly used herbs in Italian cuisine. It is often used in pasta dishes, vegetable and seafood sauces, soups, etc. It is a great complimentary herb because it used to tone down aggressive and spicy flavors. This is why it is frequently used with dishes that have garlic.

Our Trader Joe's Italian Style Soffritto Seasoning Blend includes crispy onions, sun-dried tomatoes, sea salt, garlic, red peppers, parsley, rosemary, and sage.

Substitutes for Basil:

Basil substitutes can include its mint cousins: Greek oregano, mint, and thyme. Tarragon and savory are also suitable alternatives to basil. Because basil is included in Italian seasoning, that is also a good alternative for basil when called for in an Italian-style recipe.

Italian Seasoning boasts a robust and savory flavor with a hint of garlic. Its strong aroma makes it ideal for hearty dishes and red sauces. Herbes de Provence, on the other hand, offers a more delicate and floral flavor due to the lavender infusion. It's perfect for lighter, Mediterranean-inspired dishes.

Marjoram, also known as sweet marjoram, is an aromatic herb in the mint family that has been grown in the Mediterranean, North Africa, and Western Asia for thousands of years ( 1 ). While similar to oregano, it has a milder flavor and is often used to garnish salads, soups, and meat dishes.

You'll probably have something that will substitute Italian seasoning in the spice rack already! The best option includes these common herbs: dried marjoram or dried oregano with dried basil, parsley, rosemary or thyme. Mix them in a bowl and use them as you would Italian seasoning.

Marjoram is a member of the mint and oregano family and is known for its aroma and delicate flavor. Marjoram's flavor is similar to oregano; however, it has more complicated flavor notes and is often described as sweeter and more delicate. In addition, marjoram lacks oregano's spicy undertones.