Why You’ll Love Italian Seasoning Recipe
It takes only one minute to make, saving you time during busy cooking days.
You likely already have the dried herbs in your pantry.
It’s completely customizable, allowing you to adjust the spice level to your taste.
Homemade seasoning blends are fresher and more aromatic than many store-bought versions.
It works beautifully in pasta sauces, marinades, soups, roasted vegetables, and meats.
Making your own blend helps you control the quality and avoid unnecessary additives.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
2 tablespoons dried basil
2 tablespoons dried oregano
1 tablespoon dried marjoram
1 tablespoon dried rosemary
1 tablespoon dried thyme
½ to 1 tablespoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Directions
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In a small bowl, combine the dried basil, oregano, marjoram, rosemary, thyme, and red pepper flakes if using.
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Stir well until evenly mixed.
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Transfer the seasoning blend to an airtight jar or container. Store for up to 6 months in a cool, dry place.
Servings and timing
Prep Time: 1 minute
Total Time: 1 minute
Servings: 24 servings (approximately 1 tablespoon per serving)
Variations
For a garlic-forward blend, add 1 teaspoon of garlic powder.
For a more robust flavor, include 1 teaspoon of onion powder.
For a salt-free citrus twist, add a small amount of dried lemon zest.
For a milder version, reduce or omit the red pepper flakes.
For a more earthy profile, increase the rosemary slightly.
Storage/Reheating
Store the Italian seasoning in an airtight container or spice jar in a cool, dry pantry away from direct sunlight. Properly stored, it will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 6 months.
There is no reheating required. Simply measure and add directly to your recipes as needed.
FAQs
How long does homemade Italian seasoning last?
When stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place, it can last up to 6 months while maintaining good flavor.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
This blend is designed for dried herbs. Fresh herbs contain moisture and would significantly reduce shelf life.
Is Italian seasoning the same as herbs de Provence?
No, they are different blends. Italian seasoning focuses on Mediterranean herbs like basil and oregano, while herbs de Provence often includes lavender and other regional herbs.
Can I adjust the spice level?
Yes, simply increase or decrease the red pepper flakes to suit your taste preferences.
Do I need to grind the herbs?
It’s not necessary, but you can lightly crush the herbs between your fingers to release more aroma before mixing.
Is this seasoning gluten-free?
Yes, all the listed herbs and spices are naturally gluten-free.
Can I use this for pizza?
Absolutely. It works wonderfully sprinkled over pizza before or after baking.
What dishes pair best with this seasoning?
It’s great in pasta sauces, marinades, roasted vegetables, soups, salad dressings, and grilled meats.
Can I double or triple the recipe?
Yes, you can easily scale the recipe up while keeping the same ingredient ratios.
Why make homemade instead of buying it?
Homemade blends are fresher, customizable, and free from additives or fillers often found in packaged versions.
Conclusion
This Italian Seasoning blend is a quick and practical way to enhance everyday cooking with classic Mediterranean flavors. With just a handful of dried herbs and one minute of preparation, you’ll have a versatile pantry staple ready to transform your favorite dishes. Making it yourself ensures freshness, flexibility, and full control over the flavor profile every time you cook.
