Parmesan Cheese Salad Dressing
A vibrant Italian-style salad dressing featuring fresh lemon, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and oil, perfect for light salads and pairing with Italian entrees.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Whip together lemon juice and pulp with finely chopped garlic clove.
- Slowly mix in oil.
- Let stand for 1 hour.
- Mix in cheese after 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier dressing, consider adding a tablespoon of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt. If you prefer a milder garlic flavor, roast the garlic before adding it to the lemon juice. You can also substitute the oil with a blend of olive oil and avocado oil for a different taste. This dressing pairs wonderfully with salads featuring greens, vegetables, or even drizzled over Penne With Vodka And Tomato Sauce.
Serving Suggestions
This Parmesan Cheese Salad Dressing is perfect for drizzling over mixed greens, roasted vegetables, or even as a dip for fresh bread. For a complete meal, serve it alongside My Friend'S Lasagna or use it to enhance a vegetable-packed dish like Linguine With Vegetables. It can also elevate simple salads, making them feel gourmet.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. The flavors will continue to meld over time. Before using, give it a good shake or stir, as separation may occur. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the cheese may change upon thawing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Parmesan Cheese Salad Dressing contains roughly 409 calories, with 9g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dressing in advance?
Yes, you can prepare this dressing a day ahead. Just be sure to store it in the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to bring back its flavor and consistency. The resting period allows the flavors to develop even more, enhancing your salads.
What type of oil should I use?
A good quality extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its flavor and health benefits. However, you can use any neutral oil like canola or avocado oil if you prefer a milder taste. Mixing oils can also add a unique profile to the dressing, so feel free to experiment.
Can I use a different cheese?
Absolutely! While Parmesan adds a distinct flavor, you can substitute it with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste or even a crumbly feta for a different twist. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture will change, so adjust according to your preference.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).