Giada De Laurentiis’ Do-It-All Dressing Copycat Recipe

Giada De Laurentiis' Do-It-All Dressing is a versatile, flavorful dressing that can elevate almost any dish. With a perfect balance of tangy lemon, sweet honey, Dijon mustard, and rich Parmigiano-Reggiano, this dressing has the power to transform salads, roasted vegetables, pasta, and even grilled meats.

What makes this dressing especially delightful is its simplicity. The ingredients are pantry and fridge staples—olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, mustard, garlic, and fresh basil—so you can whip it up in just a few minutes and keep it on hand for up to a week.

Giada's infusion method with smashed garlic creates an extra layer of flavor, making this dressing even more aromatic without overpowering the other ingredients.

Why Everyone Will Love This Recipe

• Tangy and sweet: The combination of lemon juice, honey, and mustard brings balance.
• Herby freshness: Fresh basil adds a bright, herbal note.
• Umami-rich: Parmigiano-Reggiano provides depth and richness.
• No blending hassle: Simply mix the ingredients and let them infuse with garlic.
• Multi-use: Perfect for salads, roasted veggies, pasta, or as a dipping sauce.

It’s easy to make, and its versatility makes it an essential recipe to have on hand.

What Makes Giada’s Do-It-All Dressing Special?

This dressing stands out because of its emulsified texture and the infusion of garlic. Unlike typical vinaigrettes, this one combines both sweet and savory elements (thanks to honey and Parmigiano-Reggiano) and can be used in a variety of ways beyond just salads. The garlic-infused flavor adds depth without overwhelming the freshness of the basil and lemon.

The smashing of garlic cloves and letting them infuse in the dressing for a couple of days helps ensure that the garlic flavor is subtle and balanced, giving the dressing a complex flavor profile without the harsh bite of raw garlic.

Cooking Tips for the Best Dressing

• Use good-quality olive oil. The flavor of the olive oil is important since it makes up most of the dressing.
• Fresh basil is key. While dried basil will work in a pinch, fresh basil provides the best flavor.
• Adjust sweetness and acidity. If you prefer a sweeter or more tangy dressing, simply adjust the honey or lemon juice.
• Let it sit. The longer the garlic infuses, the more flavorful the dressing becomes.
• Make in advance. This dressing keeps for up to a week, so make a batch and use it throughout the week.
• Shake well before using. The dressing may separate slightly as it sits, so give it a quick shake before drizzling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of vinegar?

Yes. You can substitute white wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar, though the flavor will change slightly.

Can I make this dressing vegan?

Yes, you can leave out the Parmigiano-Reggiano and substitute it with a vegan Parmesan or simply enjoy it without.

Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?

Fresh basil gives the best flavor, but dried basil can be used in a pinch. Use half the amount.

How to Store Do-It-All Dressing

Store the dressing in a resealable jar or airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for up to 1 week. Before using, shake the jar to recombine the ingredients, as the oil may separate over time.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 2 tbsps apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp honey
• 2 tsps Dijon mustard
• 1 1/2 tsps kosher salt
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano
• 8 large basil leaves
• 2 garlic cloves, peeled and smashed

How to Make Giada De Laurentiis' Do-It-All Dressing