To make Italian seasoning, combine equal parts dried basil, oregano, thyme, rosemary, and marjoram. That five-herb blend seasons pasta, pizza, dressings, and roasts, and a mix of just oregano and basil makes a quick substitute in a pinch.
What is Italian seasoning?
Italian seasoning is a dried herb blend that approximates the herbs common in Italian-American cooking. It is not a single Italian recipe so much as a convenient jar that captures the basil-oregano-thyme family in one spoonful.
Because it leans on shelf-stable dried herbs, it keeps for ages and earns its place in the rotation. It seasons tomato sauces, pizza, garlic bread, salad dressings, and roasted vegetables, which is why it is one of the most reached-for blends in a home pantry.
What goes in Italian seasoning?
- ·1 tbsp dried basil
- ·1 tbsp dried oregano
- ·1 tbsp dried thyme
- ·1 tbsp dried rosemary
- ·1 tbsp dried marjoram
Equal parts is the whole recipe, which makes it easy to scale and easy to remember. If you are missing one herb, the blend forgives it; even just oregano and basil in equal measure makes a serviceable Italian seasoning substitute.
How do you make Italian seasoning?
- Measure equal parts of each dried herb into a small jar.
- Crumble the rosemary between your fingers so it blends evenly.
- Seal and shake until combined.
- Store airtight, away from light and heat.
What should you know before making Italian seasoning?
- Crumble the rosemary. Whole dried rosemary is woody; breaking it up spreads it through the mix.
- Buy whole-leaf dried herbs. They hold flavor longer than pre-ground.
- Add it early. Dried herbs need heat and time to release their flavor into a sauce.
- Refresh it yearly. Dried herbs fade; a blend older than a year tastes like dust.
Where did Italian seasoning come from?
Italian seasoning is an Italian-American pantry convenience rather than a traditional Italian product, since cooks in Italy tend to reach for individual fresh herbs. The dried blend became a North American staple as a shortcut to that flavor profile.
What can you use Italian seasoning on?
Common questions.
What is in Italian seasoning?
Equal parts dried basil, oregano, thyme, rosemary, and marjoram. Some blends also add a little sage or parsley, but those five are the core.
What is a good substitute for Italian seasoning?
Equal parts dried oregano and basil covers most recipes. Add thyme if you have it for a closer match to the full blend.
Can I use fresh herbs instead?
Yes, but use about three times as much, since fresh herbs are milder by volume, and add them later in cooking than you would the dried blend.
What do you use Italian seasoning for?
Tomato sauces, pizza, garlic bread, salad dressings, roasted vegetables, and marinades. It is an all-purpose savory herb blend.
How long does Italian seasoning last?
Up to a year in an airtight jar, though the flavor is brightest in the first few months. Replace it once it smells faint.