What is a substitute for Italian seasoning? Italian seasoning is a blend of different Italian herbs that help in making our dishes more flavorful. When it comes to finding a good substitute for Italian seasoning, most people like to swap it with other dried herbs and spices. Each herb and spice added to an Italian seasoning brings out a different flavor and aroma to the dish. So when you are looking for an Italian seasoning substitute, not only do we need to assess the different ingredients that go into it, but what their aromas and flavors are.
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What Is In An Italian Seasoning?
From the basil on your pizza, to the oregano added to a marinara sauce and the thyme and rosemary in your meat, the heart of Italian cuisine are the herbs.
Contrary to it’s name, Italian seasoning is not from Italy (or anywhere near it). It’s a more western herb that was created to ease cooking in the kitchen. Italian seasoning blend of ground herbs is commonly used to make Italian dishes more flavorful. Italian seasoning is easily available in the market and can be made at home as well.
The basic herbs that go in the making of a Italian seasoning are – Oregano, basil, thyme, rosemary, sage and marjoram. These herbs are all added in thier dried forms. In various countries different alterations have been made to suit their tastebuds. Some like to add red chilli flakes, salt, garlic powder and other dried herbs like savory. Another noteworthy point is that you may not have all the ingredients for an Italian seasoning at home, sometimes one or two components should be enough as well.
Italian Seasoning Substitutes
Let us now have a good look at few commonly found herbs and spices that can be quite conveniently used for adding flavor to Italian cuisine or spices. Each of these can work as a fantastic Italian seasoning substitute.
Dried Oregano – Dried oregano is very aromatic and has slightly earthy, bitter notes. Dried oregano can prove to be an excellent substitute for Italian seasoning. Swap the measurements of the herbs in equal quantities.
Dried and Fresh Basil – Fresh and dried basil, both, have a beautiful aroma that adds tons of flavor to any dish. If you cannot get get your hands on some Italian seasoning, dried or fresh basil is a great option.
Parsley – This remains culturally one of the most popular herbs with a bit of a bitter flavor. Parsley improves the composition and balances the flavor of savory dishes. Many dishes incorporate parsley as a component like seafood, grilled vegetables, chimichurri sauce, pesto and more.
Mixed Herbs – Any of the herbs mentioned above – Oregano, basil, thyme, rosemary, sage and marjoram can be used in equal quantities to make an Italian seasoning of your own. It is not necessary to add all the herbs. Even if you are out of a few of them, you can use a combination of any of these herbs. You can also add red chilli flakes, garlic powder and dried lemon zest to add a depth of flavor to you DIY Italian seasoning.
Conclusion
These are some typical Italian seasoning ingredients discussed above. An Italian seasoning substitute is necessary if you are preparing something special and have run out of fresh herbs or some seasoning.
Which is your favorite go-to dried herb mix for Italian cooking? Let us know in the comment section below.
