Italian Seasoning Substitute

Whip up a simple homemade Italian seasoning substitute using a blend of dried herbs, and you'll effortlessly evoke the authentic flavors of classic Italian cuisine. Looking for more options? We have some other ideas too.

Italian seasoning is more than just a combination of herbs. It's the soul of many Italian dishes, evoking the warmth and richness of Mediterranean cuisine. But what if you run out? We've got some ideas.

Though named 'Italian seasoning,' this blend isn't traditionally used in Italy. It's more of a Western creation to encapsulate the essence of Italian flavors. In Italy, chefs prefer using fresh herbs and seasoning dishes individually.

For more delicious seasoning blends to use in your plant-based recipes, check out Adobo Seasoning, Creole Seasoning Recipe, Homemade Taco Seasoning, or Bijol Traditional Latin Seasoning Condiment. Explore more variety at 20 Seasoning Blends.

Jump to:

• Ingredients to Make Your Blend
• How to Make the Italian Blend
• Top Tips
• Substitutions for Italian Seasoning
• Using Italian Seasoning in Cooking
• Variations
• Storage
• FAQS
• More Seasoning Blends
• Recipe
• Craving More Nuts & Twigs?
• Comments

Ingredients to Make Your Blend

See the recipe card for quantities. The quantities can be modified to suit your preference. If you don't have one of the spices, it's fine. You will still get a great Italian taste in your dish.

Truly, the best way to substitute Italian seasoning is to recreate it with individual herbs. You maintain control over the flavor and can adjust each herb's presence to match the dish's needs. Here's a standard blend that you can modify as needed:

• Oregano: Your base, earthy and robust
• Basil: For a sweet touch
• Thyme: A hint of minty freshness
• Rosemary: For that piney accent
• Marjoram: Adds a sweet, floral note
• Sage: For warmth and complexity

How to Make the Italian Blend

1. In a small bowl, combine all the dried herbs and spices
2. Mix well to ensure an even distribution of the herbs and spices.
3. Store the homemade Italian seasoning substitute in an airtight container.

Top Tips

If you're working with whole spices, you'll need something to grind them down. An electric grinder works great, or you can go old school with a mortar and pestle. The mortar gives you more control over the texture and is quite satisfying!

Use as many of the herbs in the recipe as you can but if you're missing some, you will still get a delicious spice blend you can use.

Substitutions for Italian Seasoning

If minimal seasonings are available, you can still add flavor to your dishes using a few basic ingredients.

The "best" substitute can be subjective and vary depending on your cooking and the flavors you want to emphasize. However, I'll present you with strong contenders you can choose from.

Here are some ideas for substituting Italian seasoning with minimal seasonings:

• Individual Dried Herbs: If you have dried herbs, such as basil, oregano, or thyme, you can use them individually or in combination to enhance the flavor. These herbs are commonly found in Italian cuisine and will add a touch of freshness to your dishes.
• Herbes de Provence: This French herb blend often includes some of the same herbs found in Italian seasonings, like thyme and rosemary. It might also include lavender, which can add an interesting twist.
• Greek Seasoning: This blend has oregano, garlic, lemon peel, and sometimes mint. It can work in some dishes.
• Vinaigrette with Garlic and Lemon: In some recipes, like salads, a flavorful vinaigrette with garlic, lemon, olive oil, and maybe a touch of mustard can replace the need for Italian seasoning altogether.
• Fresh Herbs (if available): If you can access fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or rosemary, you can use them instead of dried herbs. Fresh herbs tend to have a stronger flavor, so use them sparingly.
• Poultry Seasoning: This blend could work as it typically includes sage, thyme, marjoram, and sometimes rosemary. However, it sometimes has a little nutmeg, so the flavor of your dish may vary a bit. The blends vary, so check the ingredients before adding them.
• Fines Herbes: A more delicate French blend, including chervil, parsley, chives, and tarragon. It might be a nice touch in lighter dishes like salads or seafood.
• Fresh Herbs: If you can get fresh basil, oregano, and thyme, combining these can create a vibrant and lively flavor different from dried herbs.

Remember, while these substitutions may not replicate the exact flavor of Italian seasoning, they can still add some depth and taste to your dishes.

While substitutes like Herbes de Provence or simple oregano could work in a pinch, creating your blend of Italian seasoning gives you the ultimate control over the flavor profile. It's like being a maestro, conducting a symphony of herbs in your kitchen.

Using Italian Seasoning in Cooking

Italian seasoning is delicious in all sorts of dishes!

• Pizza: As a pizza lover, adding Italian seasoning to your homemade pizza will elevate the flavor. Try it on this Biga Neopolitan Pizza Dough Recipe.
• Pasta Sauces: Italian seasoning complements all types of sauces. Try it in this Neopolitan Pizza Sauce Recipe.
• Roasted Vegetables: A sprinkle of this blend makes veggies irresistible.
• Tofu or Tempeh: It adds depth and character.
• Bread: A touch of Italian seasoning in your dough will make your homemade bread extraordinary.
• Roasted Chickpeas Croutons - Add some Italian seasoning for variety.
• Homemade croutons or breadcrumbs - A tasty twist for added variety.
• The Best Vegan Lasagna - Italian seasoning is delicious in this ricotta.

Variations

• Add a teaspoon of garlic powder, onion powder, and red chili flakes for the perfect pizza blend. It'll give your pizza that irresistible flavor boost. Try the blend on this Neopolitan Pizza.
• For a zesty Italian seasoning, throw in a dash of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes for that extra kick.
• Add 1 teaspoon dried lemon or orange zest for a citrus twist.
• For a Mediterranean taste, add 1 teaspoon of dried lavender.

Storage

Store your Italian seasoning in an airtight container, away from heat, moisture, and direct sunlight, to keep the flavors fresh and vibrant.

FAQS

More Seasoning Blends

What did you think?

Got a minute? I'd love for you to dive into the comments and rate this Italian Seasoning Substitute. Your feedback is invaluable—did you love it? Did you make any fun twists? Let me know how my directions worked for you so I can keep improving my recipes. Follow me on Pinterest, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube for inspiration.

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