There’s nothing quite like a blend of Italian herbs to add flavor to savory recipes, except when it’s a homemade seasoning blend. The DIY version guarantees freshness, and that you can easily customize to your liking.
Having a batch in your cupboard makes it easy to flavor your favorite tomato sauce recipe, whip up a quick batch of zesty Italian pasta salad, or quickly make an Italian vinaigrette for a delicious green salad.
Ingredient Spotlight
When it comes to store-bought Italian seasoning, you’ll find a wide range of ingredients. Some focus on Italian herbs, while others include onion and garlic powder, or even red pepper flakes. The good news about this: it’s a totally customizable spice mix!
This version is definitely herb-forward, as it should be, with a little garlic powder mixed in there. I can’t help myself! This is an ingredient you can omit, however, if you prefer to just have the herb blend.
You’ll find the best of the best dried herbs in this mix:
- The big three: Basil, Parsley, and Oregano
- Bold flavor, hearty texture: Rosemary and Thyme
- A little something different: Marjoram, an herb that is similar to oregano but milder, it adds a nice balance. If you don’t have it, feel free to leave it out.
Be sure to use fresh dried herbs; if they’ve already been sitting in your pantry when you make this blend, they likely have lost flavor and the mix will be less potent.
One Step Recipe
Making homemade seasoning blends is sometimes just a matter of combining the spices or herbs together and storing them until you’re ready to use (if not immediately). That’s absolutely the easiest way to make this blend, too.
Do note, that by simply mixing the herbs and garlic powder, the garlic powder weighs more and will sink to the bottom, making it difficult to incorporate. Prevent this by giving it a good shake or stir immediately before use. Or, try this next method.
To make a more uniform mixture, you can also pulse the blend in a spice grinder a few times like we do with lemon pepper seasoning. Don’t overdo it though, or your herbs will end up as a powder. It will help to break up and incorporate the heartier rosemary and thyme sprigs, too, and incorporate the garlic powder.
Ways to Use Italian Seasoning
Oh, how this herb blend is versatile enough to use in many recipes! Here are some of our favorites:
- Sprinkle it on veggies – whether you’re oven-roasting broccolini or air-frying frozen vegetables, the addition of Italian herbs will be just delightful! Sprinkle it on with a little olive oil to evenly coat the veggies, and don’t forget some salt!
- Add it to sauces – like our classic pasta sauce recipe, or jazz up a jar of store-bought marinara with an extra dose of this blend.
- Pizza! Of course, a little Italian seasoning goes a long way on pizza. Generously sprinkle on the sauce when making our favorite Margherita flatbread, or a bruschetta pizza. It’s also great as a finishing touch on your favorite ‘za!
- Season Soups – when you need cozy winter soups, this blend adds a pop of savoriness without effort; try it in our 5-star creamy vegetable dumpling soup or our hearty vegetable barley soup.
- Whisk it in homemade dressings – whether it’s an Italian vinaigrette for a lettuce salad or a pasta salad, this blend is the perfect base. You can also add it to red wine vinaigrette or this super-easy balsamic vinaigrette for added flavor.
- Popcorn Seasoning – add it to our popular stove-top popcorn for an easy popcorn seasoning. I’d also recommend that it would be a delicious addition to garlic parmesan popcorn!
- Seasoning Main Dishes & Proteins- whether you’re a meat eater and love chicken or fish, or a vegetarian who enjoys roasting whole cauliflower or savory veggie meatballs, add a sprinkle of this mix for an easy flavor addition! Use it in a marinade, too.
Storage Tips
Store homemade Italian seasoning as you would any other spices or spice mixes, in an airtight container (jars work great!) in a cool, dark place. A cupboard or pantry away from the heat of your oven is a great choice!
How long will it last? Spice blends will last for several months, usually up to 6 months, if stored properly. Keep in mind that dried herbs and spices will lose their intensity over time, so it’s best to use it sooner rather than later.
Did you make this recipe? Please leave a star rating and review in the form below. I appreciate your feedback, and it helps others, too!
Get the Recipe Homemade Italian Seasoning Mix
Ingredients
- 2 Tablespoons dried basil
- 2 Tablespoons dried parsley
- 3 Tablespoons dried oregano
- ½ Tablespoon dried thyme
- ½ Tablespoon dried marjoram
- 2 teaspoons dried rosemary
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder, optional
Equipment
- Spice Grinder optional
Instructions
- In a bowl, add all of the ingredients and whisk or stir until completely incorporated together. Or, shake them together in a jar.
- Optional: pulse a few times in a spice grinder to make more uniform pieces.
- Store in an airtight container in a dark cupboard for up to six months. If adding garlic powder, be sure to shake well before each use. Use with roasted veggies, sauces, pasta, and more!
Notes
- Yields a scant 2/3 cup of seasoning.
