Parmesan Vinaigrette Recipe (Salad Dressing)
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This Parmesan Vinaigrette Recipe (Salad Dressing) is a flavorful homemade dressing that combines the rich taste of Parmesan with bright lemon, garlic, and olive oil. It comes together quickly with simple ingredients, making it an easy way to elevate everyday salads and fresh dishes.
This dressing is the secret to the famous La Scala Chopped Salad!
Quick Look: Parmesan Vinaigrette Recipe (Salad Dressing)
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Servings: 12 people
- Dietary Info: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
- Method: Whisked emulsified dressing
- Technique: Slowly whisk olive oil into the vinegar and Parmesan mixture.
- Flavor/Texture: Tangy, savory, garlicky, cheesy
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The perfect balance of tangy red wine vinegar, nutty Parmigiano-Reggiano, rich olive oil, and garlicky depth creates a flavor-packed vinaigrette that takes any salad to the next level. It’s simple, fresh, and full of Italian-inspired goodness—the kind of dressing you’ll want to drizzle on everything- more than your favorite salad recipe!
- Big, Bold Flavor – Tangy, garlicky, cheesy, and rich—this dressing has it all!
- Simple & Quick – Just a few quality ingredients come together in minutes.
- Better Than Store-Bought – No additives, just pure, homemade deliciousness.
Once you try this Parmesan Vinaigrette Dressing, you’ll never go back to store-bought—trust me, it’s that good! You’ll also love my Orange Vinaigrette and Balsamic Vinaigrette,
Made With Amore,
Table of Contents
Simple Ingredients
This creamy, garlicky, cheesy dressing is simple, flavorful, and delicious!
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil – The rich, velvety base that brings smoothness and depth.
- Red Wine Vinegar – Adds a bright, tangy acidity to balance the richness.
- Parmigiano-Reggiano (or Pecorino Romano) – Finely grated for a salty, nutty depth that makes this dressing irresistible.
- Garlic and Dijon Mustard: These bold ingredients add depth and help create a smooth, well-balanced dressing while helping emulsify the vinaigrette.
- Dried Oregano, Sea Salt, and Black Pepper: Classic Italian seasonings that enhance the flavors and bring the dressing together.
See recipe card for full information on ingredients and quantities.
Variations & Substitutions
- Vinegar Options: Swap red wine vinegar with white wine vinegar or fresh lemon juice for a different tang.
- Fresh Herbs: Add fresh or dried basil, thyme, or Italian Seasoning for extra depth.
- Creamier Version: Blend in Greek yogurt or a touch of mayo for a thicker, creamier dressing. Try my Creamy Italian Dressing next!
- Garlic-Free Option: If you prefer a milder taste, reduce or omit garlic and add a pinch of shallots instead.
How To Make Parmesan Vinaigrette
This homemade parmesan vinaigrette is easy to make with just a few fresh ingredients. Follow the step-by step photos and see the recipe card at the bottom for a printable version.
- Add all ingredients (except the cheese and pepper) to a small bowl and whisk until emulsified. You can also use an immersion blender or food processor or shake it in a Mason jar with a lid.
- Add the freshly grated Parmigiano cheese and add pepper to taste. Whisk to combine.
Parmesan Vinaigrette Recipe FAQs
Olive oil solidifies when cold! Let the dressing sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes, then shake or whisk to bring it back to its original consistency.
If the vinegar flavor is too strong, add a little more olive oil or Parmesan cheese to mellow the acidity and create a more balanced flavor.
Keep the dressing in an airtight jar or container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Shake or whisk before using as the oil may separate.
Serving Suggestions
I love using this parmesan vinaigrette for more than just salads. Drizzle it over Grilled Eggplant, Grain Bowls, Porchetta Sandwiches, or even Roasted Potatoes for a boost of savory flavor. It’s also delicious tossed with an Italian Chopped Salad, Pasta Salad, roasted vegetables, or used as a flavorful marinade for chicken and fish. The creamy Parmesan and bright Italian-inspired flavors make it an easy way to elevate everyday dishes.
My Pro Tips
Recipe Tips
- Use High-Quality Olive Oil: The richness of the dressing comes from the olive oil, so choose a high-quality extra virgin variety for the best flavor.
- Freshly Grate the Parmesan: Skip the pre-grated cheese and use freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano or Pecorino for a richer, nuttier taste.
- Let It Sit: Allow the dressing to rest for at least 10 minutes before using it to let the flavors fully develop.
- Whisk or Shake Well: The mustard helps emulsify the dressing, but always whisk vigorously or shake in a sealed jar to keep it well blended.
- Adjust to Taste: If you want more tang, add a splash of vinegar; for extra creaminess, stir in a little more Parmesan.
More Salad Dressings and Sauces
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Parmesan Vinaigrette Recipe
Ingredients
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1-2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 3 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- ½ cup Parmigiano or Parmesan cheese, finely grated (or Pecorino cheese)
Instructions
- Whisk the Base: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, and Dijon mustard until smooth.
- Add Garlic & Seasonings: Stir in the minced garlic, dried oregano, and grated Parmesan until well combined.
- Season & Blend: Add sea salt and black pepper to taste, then whisk again or shake in a jar until emulsified.
- Let It Rest: Allow the dressing to sit for at least 10 minutes before using to let the flavors meld.
- Serve & Store: Drizzle over your chopped salad and enjoy! Store leftovers in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 5 days (shake before using).
Notes
- Use High-Quality Olive Oil – The richness of the dressing comes from the olive oil, so choose a high-quality extra virgin variety for the best flavor.
- Freshly Grate the Parmesan – Skip the pre-grated cheese and use freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano or Pecorino for a richer, nuttier taste.
- Let It Sit – Allow the dressing to rest for at least 10 minutes before using it to let the flavors fully develop.
- Whisk or Shake Well – The mustard helps emulsify the dressing, but always whisk vigorously or shake in a sealed jar to keep it well blended.
- Adjust to Taste – If you want more tang, add a splash of vinegar; for extra creaminess, stir in a little more Parmesan.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Hi
Can I use for pasta salad?
Yes! Delicious!
We love this as a salad dressing and even baked chicken marinade!