Crafting your own Homemade Italian Seasoning is a simple yet transformative way to elevate your cooking. In just 10 minutes, you can create a perfectly balanced blend of aromatic herbs and spices that captures the essence of Italian cuisine. Say goodbye to store-bought blends and hello to a fresher, more flavorful seasoning that will enhance everything from pasta sauces and soups to roasted vegetables and chicken. This easy-to-make mix is not only a cost-effective pantry staple but also a delicious way to customize your meals with authentic Italian flair.
Making your own Italian seasoning blend offers more than just incredible flavor—it gives you full control over the quality and freshness of the herbs you use. You can adjust the ingredients to suit your personal taste, ensuring every dish is seasoned to perfection. Plus, this homemade blend makes a thoughtful and unique gift! Packaged in a cute jar with a handwritten label, it’s an ideal hostess gift or a “just because” present for the food lovers in your life. With its rich aroma and versatile use, your homemade Italian seasoning will impress anyone who receives it.
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Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This homemade Italian seasoning recipe takes just 10 minutes and uses pantry staples to create a flavorful, all-purpose blend. A super simple recipe!
- Customizable: Raid your spice rack! Adjust the ingredients to suit your taste preferences, making this seasoning blend truly your own!
- Cost-Effective and Fresh: Making Italian seasoning at home is more affordable than store-bought seasoning, and the wonderful flavor is fresher and more vibrant.
Ingredients and Substitutions
- Dried Basil - Provides a sweet and slightly peppery flavor that is essential in Italian cuisine. If you don’t have dried basil, you can substitute with fresh basil, but use less as it is more potent.
- Dried Oregano - Adds a robust, earthy flavor that complements other Italian herbs. If oregano is unavailable, you can use dried marjoram or a blend of thyme and rosemary.
- Dried Rosemary - Contributes a piney and aromatic taste. For a substitution, dried thyme or dried sage can be used, though they will slightly alter the flavor profile.
- Dried Thyme - Offers a subtle, warm flavor that enhances the overall seasoning mix. If you don’t have thyme, you can use dried oregano or rosemary as alternatives.
- Dried Marjoram - Adds a mild, sweet flavor with hints of citrus. If marjoram is not available, dried oregano or basil can be used as substitutes.
- Dried Sage - Provides a savory, slightly peppery taste. If sage is missing, dried rosemary or thyme can be used in its place.
- Dried Parsley - Adds a fresh, mild flavor and a touch of color. Fresh parsley can be used if dried is unavailable, but the mix might not last as long.
- Dried Garlic Powder - Offers a garlic flavor that adds depth to the seasoning. If you prefer a more subtle flavor or need to avoid garlic, you can omit this ingredient.
See recipe card for quantities.
How to Make Homemade Italian Seasoning
Step 1: In a small bowl or spice jar, add dried basil, dried oregano, dried rosemary, dried thyme, dried marjoram, dried sage, dried parsley, and garlic powder.
Step 2: Whisk to combine.
Step 3: Add to a jar or airtight container for storage.
Top Tips
Freshness Matters: For the best flavor, use fresh dried herbs and spices. Store your homemade Italian seasoning blend in an airtight container to maintain its potency.
Adjust to Taste: Feel free to adjust the ratios of different herbs based on your preferences. For a spicier blend, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Make a Larger Batch: Consider making a larger batch to have on hand. It can be stored for several months, but make sure to keep it in a cool, dark place.
Experiment with Blends: Don’t hesitate to experiment with adding other herbs like dried fennel or bay leaf for a unique twist and extra flavor.
Seasoning Versatility: This perfect blend can be used in a variety of your favorite dishes beyond Italian cuisine, such as marinades, dressings, and even as a seasoning for roasted nuts.
Taste as You Go: When using in recipes, add a little at a time and taste as you go to ensure the seasoning doesn’t overpower your favorite Italian dishes.
Storage and Make Ahead
Storage: Store the Italian seasoning blend in an airtight container in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry or cupboard. A glass container with a lid works great! Properly stored in a sealed jar, it will maintain its freshness and flavor for up to 6 months.
Freezing: Freezing is not recommended for dried herb blends, as it can affect the texture and flavor of the seasoning. Instead, keep it stored in a cool, dry place.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the Italian seasoning blend in advance and store it in an airtight container. This is especially useful for meal prep or to have on hand for quick seasoning needs. Make a double batch to save time during cooking.
FAQs
Absolutely! You can adjust the quantities of herbs to suit your taste. For example, add more oregano for a stronger flavor or include red pepper flakes for a hint of spice.
Yes! This homemade seasoning is naturally gluten-free as long as the individual spices and herbs are certified gluten-free. Always check the labels of your ingredients.
This homemade Italian seasoning mix is versatile and enhances the flavor of pasta sauces, soups, pizza dough, roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, and marinades. It's a kitchen staple for a variety of Italian recipes.
Homemade Italian Seasoning
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons dried basil
- 2 tablespoons dried oregano
- 2 tablespoons dried rosemary
- 2 tablespoons dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon dried marjoram
- 1 tablespoon dried sage
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley
- 1 tablespoon dried garlic powder optional
Instructions
- In a small bowl or spice jar, combine 2 tablespoons of dried basil, 2 tablespoons of dried oregano, 2 tablespoons of dried rosemary, 2 tablespoons of dried thyme, 1 tablespoon of dried marjoram, 1 tablespoon of dried sage, 1 tablespoon of dried parsley, and 1 tablespoon of garlic powder.
- Stir or shake the ingredients together until well combined.
- Transfer the Italian seasoning blend into an airtight container. Store it in a cool, dark place to preserve its freshness and flavor.
Notes
Nutrition
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These are my favorite dishes to use with this recipe:
Leanne
This blend was perfect in my marinara sauce, and I'm sure it will be excellent in my future Italian dishes. Thanks for sharing.
Stephanie
Unexpectedly, I ran out of Italian seasoning and found this recipe while searching for substitutions. Since I didn't have rubbed sage, I added a bit more rosemary. This will definitely become a pantry staple for me.
Karina
Oh my gosh, I love this. I made it, and it is already making my recipes better. I hadn't thought of adding garlic powder, but it makes perfect sense.
Cara Leonard
Thanks for sharing this! I always have these ingredients on hand, no need to buy it!
Courtney
Just dried a bunch of herbs from my garden and was looking for a homemade blend like this that I could make. It's perfect!
Madhu
Need to make this! Thanks for sharing the recipe!
Kimberly Garrido
This recipe will definitely take my pasta and marinades to the next level!
Eva
I use so much Italian seasoning, this recipe is so great to have on hand. Thank you!
Tina
These homemade blends make great gifts! Thanks for the recipe!
Abi
Homemade seasonings are the BEST! Thanks for sharing the recipe!
Tina Frank
Right?! Thanks Abi!