Italian seasoning is a popular blend of herbs and spices that is commonly used to add flavor to dishes like pasta, pizza, and sauces. While standard Italian seasoning ingredients like oregano, basil, and parsley are naturally gluten-free, some brands may contain additives or anti-caking agents that contain gluten. For those avoiding gluten, it’s important to read ingredient lists carefully and look for Italian seasoning blends that are certified gluten-free.
What ingredients are in Italian seasoning?
There is no single definitive ingredient list for Italian seasoning, but some of the most common herbs and spices included are:
- Oregano – A pungent, earthy herb that is essential for Italian cuisine.
- Basil – A sweet, peppery herb that pairs well with tomatoes.
- Parsley – A fresh, grassy herb that adds flavor and color.
- Rosemary – A woodsy, pine-like herb with a strong scent.
- Thyme – An earthy, minty herb that complements the other Italian seasoning ingredients.
- Marjoram – A sweet, woodsy herb similar to oregano.
- Sage – An savory herb with a faint minty flavor.
- Crushed red pepper flakes – Adds a touch of heat and spice.
- Garlic powder – Provides a subtle garlic flavor.
- Onion powder – Adds an oniony, savory taste.
These ingredients on their own are naturally gluten-free. However, some brands may also add wheat flour, maltodextrin, or anti-caking agents as fillers or flow agents which could contain gluten. That’s why it’s crucial to verify the ingredients when purchasing Italian seasoning blends.
What brands of Italian seasoning are gluten free?
Many major spice brands offer Italian seasoning blends verified to be gluten-free. Some good gluten-free options include:
- McCormick Gluten Free Italian Seasoning – McCormick’s popular Italian seasoning contains oregano, basil, rosemary, sage, thyme, marjoram, savory, and cayenne pepper.
- Spice Islands Italian Seasoning – Spice Islands blend includes oregano, basil, thyme, rosemary, savory, marjoram, parsley flakes, celery seed, and crushed red pepper.
- Frontier Co-op Organic Italian Seasoning – Frontier Co-op uses oregano, rosemary, basil, thyme, marjoram, and sage in their certified organic seasoning mix.
- Simply Organic Italian Seasoning – A blend of oregano, thyme, basil, rosemary, marjoram, savory, and sage from Simply Organic.
- Badia Italian Seasoning – Badia contains oregano, basil, parsley, rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, celery seed, and crushed red pepper.
- The Spice House Italian Herb Blend – Hand blended from marjoram, oregano, rosemary, basil, thyme, savory, and sage.
When in doubt, be sure to check the detailed ingredient list and look for a certified gluten-free label from organizations like the Gluten Intolerance Group (GIG) or the Celiac Support Association (CSA). Many major brands also clearly state “gluten-free” on the bottle.
Should you make your own gluten-free Italian seasoning?
Making homemade Italian seasoning is an easy way to control the ingredients and ensure it’s gluten-free. Simply combine dried herbs like oregano, basil, thyme, rosemary, and marjoram with spices like garlic powder or red pepper flakes. Tailor the blend to your own taste preferences.
Benefits of homemade gluten-free Italian seasoning include:
- Total control over ingredients – No risk of additives or cross-contamination
- Customizable flavor – Adjust herbs and spices to your liking
- Fresher taste – Dried herbs may lose potency over time
- Cost savings – Typically cheaper than pre-made blends
However, making your own blend requires having all the necessary herbs and spices on hand. Pre-made Italian seasoning also offers convenience. But with so many quality store-bought options verified gluten-free, homemade is no longer required just for safety reasons.
Best practices for homemade gluten-free Italian seasoning:
- Use high-quality dried herbs and spices without additives
- Store in an airtight container away from light and moisture
- Only make a small batch at a time for maximum freshness
- For optimal flavor, toast the herbs briefly before blending
- Use within 6 months for best quality
What are good substitutes if you don’t have Italian seasoning?
If you want to recreate the Italian seasoning flavor profile but don’t have a pre-made blend on hand, you can substitute with individual dried herbs:
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning = 1/2 teaspoon oregano + 1/4 teaspoon basil + 1/4 teaspoon thyme
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning = 3/4 teaspoon oregano + 1/4 teaspoon marjoram
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning = 1 teaspoon oregano + 1/4 teaspoon rosemary + pinch crushed red pepper
For a salt-free option, try combining dried parsley, basil, oregano, rosemary, and thyme in equal parts.
Other popular herbs and spices that can approximate Italian seasoning flavor:
- Oregano
- Basil
- Thyme
- Marjoram
- Sage
- Tarragon
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
Using a combination of these Italian herbs and spices can help replicate that signature Italian seasoning taste.
What are common uses for Italian seasoning?
Italian seasoning is extremely versatile. It can be used to add flavor to:
- Pasta sauces – Sprinkle on marinara, alfredo, pesto, etc.
- Pizza – Sprinkle on crust or add to sauce
- Bread – Add to bread or pizza dough
- Salad dressings and marinades – Whisk with oil and vinegar
- Meats – Rub on chicken, beef, pork, lamb, etc. before grilling
- Vegetables – Toss with olive oil and roast
- Bean dishes – Add to chickpeas, white beans, lentils
- Soups – Stir into minestrone, vegetable, bean soups
- Eggs – Sprinkle on omelets, frittatas, scrambled eggs
Italian seasoning is a great way to add instant flavor to nearly any savory dish. A little goes a long way in providing that classic Italian herbal taste.
What foods pair well with Italian seasoning?
Italian seasoning pairs wonderfully with many ingredients popular in Italian cooking:
- Tomatoes – The fresh acidity of tomatoes balances the robust herbs.
- Garlic – The sharp, sulfury notes of garlic complement the blend.
- Onions – Onions add sweetness and another layer of flavor.
- Bell peppers – Peppers add crispness and sweetness.
- Eggplant – The mild flavor absorbs other spices nicely.
- Zucchini – Zucchini soaks up seasoning and adds texture.
- Mushrooms – Earthy mushrooms pair well with woody rosemary and thyme.
- Olives – Briny olives offset the herbs and spices.
- Basil – Extra basil accentuates the flavors already present.
- Oregano – More oregano boosts the main herbal component.
In general, vegetables, cheeses, eggs, beans, grains, and proteins tend to complement Italian seasoning well. The blend provides the classic Italian flavor profile to just about anything.
How should Italian seasoning be stored?
Like all dried herbs and spices, proper storage is important for preserving the freshness and shelf life of Italian seasoning. Follow these tips for storage:
- Keep in a cool, dark place away from light and heat
- Store in a sealed, airtight container or jar
- Don’t store near oven, stove, or above refrigerator
- Only buy as much as you will use within 6 months to 1 year
- Store homemade blends in the refrigerator for maximum freshness
With proper storage, Italian seasoning can retain its flavor and potency for up to 1-2 years. Over time, the herbs and spices will eventually lose their pungency. For the freshest taste, try using within 6 months. Be sure to give Italian seasoning a sniff test before use; if it’s lost its robust aroma, it may be time to replace it.
Conclusion
Italian seasoning is a versatile blend that can add big flavor to a variety of dishes. When shopping for Italian seasoning, double check that the brand is gluten-free by examining the ingredients list and labels. Many major spice companies now offer Italian seasoning verified to be gluten-free, so there are plenty of options to choose from. You can also easily make homemade Italian seasoning with dried herbs like oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary. Store Italian seasoning properly in an airtight container in a cool, dark place to maximize its shelf life. Used thoughtfully, Italian seasoning can be an indispensable component of Italian cooking.
