What Seasonings Are in Italian Seasoning: Complete Ingredient Guide

Italian seasoning is a dried herb blend typically containing basil, oregano, rosemary, thyme, and marjoram. Most commercial blends use these five core herbs in varying proportions, though some versions may include garlic powder, onion powder, or red pepper flakes as additional ingredients. The exact composition differs by brand, with no single standardized recipe.

Understanding what seasonings are in Italian seasoning helps home cooks make informed choices for their recipes. This popular herb blend brings authentic Mediterranean flavors to dishes without requiring multiple individual spice containers. While the name suggests a single unified Italian tradition, the reality is more nuanced—Italian regional cuisines vary significantly, and this particular blend actually represents an American interpretation of Italian-inspired herbs.

Core Components of Italian Seasoning

Despite variations between brands, most Italian seasoning blends share the same foundational herbs. Each contributes distinct flavor notes that combine to create the characteristic taste profile:

• Basil - Provides sweet, slightly peppery notes with hints of anise. Dried basil forms the herbal backbone of most blends.
• Oregano - Contributes earthy, slightly bitter notes that add depth. Mediterranean oregano (Origanum vulgare) differs from Mexican varieties.
• Rosemary - Offers pine-like, woody notes in small quantities. Too much can overpower other flavors.
• Thyme - Brings subtle lemony, floral notes that complement tomatoes and meats.
• Marjoram - Similar to oregano but sweeter and milder, often considered the "gentler" counterpart.

Commercial Blend Variations

When examining what herbs are in Italian seasoning across different brands, you'll notice significant variation in proportions and additional ingredients. This comparison shows how three popular commercial blends differ:

Brand	Core Herbs	Additional Ingredients	Notable Characteristics
McCormick	Basil, Oregano, Rosemary, Thyme	Marjoram	Balanced profile, moderate oregano presence
Badia	Oregano, Basil, Rosemary	Thyme, Marjoram, Garlic Powder	Bolder oregano-forward flavor
Simply Organic	Basil, Oregano, Thyme, Rosemary	Marjoram, Lavender	More complex herbal profile with floral notes

Creating Your Own Italian Seasoning Blend

Knowing what seasonings make up Italian seasoning allows you to customize your own blend. Homemade versions typically follow this proportion:

• 2 parts dried basil
• 2 parts dried oregano
• 1 part dried rosemary
• 1 part dried thyme
• 1 part dried marjoram

For a more authentic regional touch, consider these variations:

• Northern Italian style - Increase marjoram, reduce oregano
• Southern Italian style - Increase oregano, add red pepper flakes
• Tuscan variation - Add sage and fennel seeds

When making your own blend, use high-quality dried herbs and store the mixture in an airtight container away from light and heat. Fresh herbs don't substitute well in this application since Italian seasoning is specifically a dried herb blend.

Practical Culinary Applications

Understanding what's in Italian seasoning helps determine optimal usage. This versatile blend works particularly well with:

• Tomato-based sauces and soups
• Roasted vegetables (especially zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers)
• Marinades for chicken, pork, and fish
• Olive oil-based dressings
• Pizza dough and focaccia

Add Italian seasoning early in the cooking process for soups and stews to allow flavors to meld, but sprinkle on roasted vegetables during the last 10 minutes to preserve more volatile aromatic compounds. For salad dressings, let the herbs steep in the oil for at least 30 minutes before use.

Substitutions When You're Out of Italian Seasoning

If you're wondering what can replace Italian seasoning, consider these alternatives based on what herbs constitute the blend:

• Basic substitution - Combine equal parts dried basil, oregano, and thyme
• For tomato dishes - Use extra oregano with a pinch of red pepper flakes
• For poultry - Increase thyme and rosemary proportions
• For vegetarian dishes - Boost marjoram and add a touch of lavender

Remember that pre-made blends contain carefully balanced proportions, so single-herb substitutions won't replicate the complex flavor profile of authentic Italian seasoning ingredients.

Storage and Shelf Life Considerations

Proper storage preserves the flavor compounds in Italian seasoning. Store your blend in an airtight container away from heat and light. Most commercial blends maintain peak flavor for 6-12 months, while homemade versions typically last 3-6 months. To test freshness, rub a small amount between your fingers—if the aroma is weak or musty, it's time to replace your blend. Never store herbs above the stove or near other heat sources, as this accelerates flavor degradation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Italian seasoning the same as Herbes de Provence?

No, Italian seasoning and Herbes de Provence differ significantly. Italian seasoning typically contains basil, oregano, rosemary, thyme, and marjoram. Herbes de Provence, a French blend, usually includes thyme, rosemary, oregano, and marjoram but often adds lavender, fennel seeds, and sometimes savory—giving it a distinctly floral profile not found in Italian blends.

Can I substitute Italian seasoning for oregano in recipes?

You can substitute Italian seasoning for oregano, but use about half the amount since Italian seasoning contains multiple herbs diluted with oregano. For every teaspoon of oregano called for, use ½ teaspoon of Italian seasoning. This prevents other herbs in the blend from overwhelming your dish.

Why doesn't my Italian seasoning taste authentic?

Many commercial Italian seasoning blends contain fillers or disproportionate herb ratios that don't reflect traditional Italian cooking. Authentic flavor comes from proper proportions—typically equal parts basil and oregano with smaller amounts of rosemary, thyme, and marjoram. Older blends that have lost potency through improper storage also taste less authentic.

Does Italian seasoning contain garlic or onion?

Traditional Italian seasoning blends do not contain garlic or onion. However, some commercial versions add garlic powder, onion powder, or red pepper flakes. Check the ingredient list if you're following a specific dietary requirement or seeking an authentic herb-only blend.

What's the difference between Italian seasoning and pizza seasoning?

Pizza seasoning typically contains all the herbs in Italian seasoning but with higher proportions of oregano and often includes additional garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes. Some pizza seasonings also contain Parmesan cheese powder or other cheese elements not found in standard Italian seasoning blends.