Homemade Italian Seasoning Substitute

Once you make this Italian Seasoning Substitute with 7 simple ingredients, you will never buy one. It’s a staple in everyone’s kitchen because it brings any dish to life!

Sharing my super easy recipe for Italian seasoning substitute with you today! I never buy one because it is pricey, contains preservatives and I usually have all individual spices in my spice drawer.

Why not make your own homemade Italian seasoning mix?! Making your own homemade spice blends makes sense. You save money and know what’s in it.

It is one of the best seasoning blends out there I reach for over and over again. Having it on hand makes cooking fast and convenient as you don’t have to measure out individual spices. It also takes out the guesswork how much of each herb to use because Italian spice mix is already perfectly balanced.

It flavors beautifully various dishes like chicken, salads, pasta sauces, and soups. You will love having it in your spice cabinet!

What Is in Italian Seasoning?

According to Wikipedia, Italian seasoning is not even Italian but rather American creation. Pre-mixed dried herbs are not common in Italy.

There are as many variations of Italian seasoning blend as homecooks and brands. It starts with a simple blend of herbs and often you will see an addition of red pepper flakes, garlic powder, onion powder and even salt.

Let’s go over the ingredients you will need, can substitute or omit.

To make this easy Italian seasoning recipe you will need 7 simple ingredients that you probably have in your spice cupboard right now. Of course, you can customize homemade version to your taste buds and ingredients on hand. It is very forgiving!

Dried parsley: Curly or flat leaf parsley works.
Dried oregano: Use any variety of dried oregano, there are many!
Dried basil: Makes the Italian seasoning substitute!
Dried thyme: A much smaller amount than of other herbs because it is very potent. If you are not a fan of thyme, just omit it.
Dried rosemary: Small amount, you can also chop it for more even textured Italian seasoning mix.
Garlic powder: Or more correct, granulated garlic as it keeps the seasoning of nice bright color.
Red pepper flakes: Add a nice touch of heat common in Italian cooking. It is optional or add more to taste.

Recipe Tip

Dried marjoram. Feel free to add up to 2 teaspoons. I had a hard time finding it in any grocery store in my area.

How to Make Homemade Italian Seasoning

Here is a quick overview how to make Italian seasoning at home. It comes together in minutes but lasts for a long time.

Grab a small bowl or large rimmed plate and add dried parsley, oregano, basil, thyme, rosemary, garlic powder and red pepper flakes. Stir gently with a fork, spoon or a whisk until well mixed.

Alternatively, you could also add all Italian seasoning ingredients to a jar or container with tight fitting lid and shake until thoroughly mixed.

That’s it! Now you are ready to cook amazing food with it.

Tips for Best Results

Spicy: To add more heat, simply increase amount of red pepper flakes to 1 teaspoon.
Fine texture: For more uniform and fine texture, pulse your Italian herb mix in a high speed blender, food processor or spice grinder.
Variations: Want to know what flavor exactly each herb adds? Then check out this guide to Italian herbs.
Bulk spices: Look for dried herbs in a bulk section to save money and avoid food waste.
Check expiration date: Be sure the individual herbs you use are fresh to begin with. As this Italian herb seasoning can last for years, it’s important to start with the best ingredients.

How to Store

You can store your DIY Italian seasoning substitute indefinitely, so make a big batch and enjoy!

The beauty of dried herbs are that as long as you keep them in a tightly sealed jar, away from direct light and heat, it can last up to 2-3 years according to USDA. They do not get moldy or rotten unlike fresh herbs. You know your own Italian herb blend is no longer good when it is no longer aromatic.

To ensure long storage time, be sure to store it away from direct sunlight and heat, in a cool dark place, in an airtight container. Do not keep your spice rack close to the stove which is a major source of heat. It also does not need to be refrigerated.

Uses

Italian seasoning is a versatile blend and one of those spices that goes with anything. When I need to add a little oomph to any savory dish, I always seem to reach for it.

Vegetables: Add when baking otherwise plain zucchini or butternut squash.
Italian dishes: No Italian recipes in North America are complete without the Italian seasoning. Use it to make lasagna and pasta.
Soups: Season soups with it like minestrone and pasta e fagioli.
Salad dressing: Combine the seasoning with olive oil and vinegar for your own homemade Italian dressing.
Marinades: Make grilled bruschetta chicken. Try it in this Greek chicken marinade by replacing the Greek seasoning ingredients with this easy seasoning blend.
Breads: Season these low carb breads with it like cauliflower pizza crust and cauliflower breadsticks.

FAQs

Can you substitute Italian seasoning for oregano?

Yes, you can because it has the right balance of herbs.

What else can I add?

You can also add sage, marjoram, salt and pepper to make it a complete all-in-one your go-to seasoning.

Can I cut recipe in half or double it?

Sure, make as much as you want.

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