Parmesan Vinaigrette Recipe
This bold and zesty Parmesan vinaigrette is the secret to the famous La Scala Chopped Salad! Made with simple ingredients, it’s packed with garlicky, tangy, and cheesy goodness—perfect for salads, roasted veggies, or even as a marinade.
Servings: 12 servings
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
Top 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 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.
- Make Ahead for Convenience – Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days; shake well before using.
Nutrition
Serving: 12g | Calories: 98kcal | Carbohydrates: 0.4g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 7g | Cholesterol: 3mg | Sodium: 81mg | Potassium: 9mg | Fiber: 0.1g | Sugar: 0.1g | Vitamin A: 35IU | Vitamin C: 0.1mg | Calcium: 52mg | Iron: 0.2mg
