Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Parmesan Vinaigrette Garlic Blend is the ideal combination of savory, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors. The freshly grated Parmesan cheese creates a creamy texture, while the garlic and Italian seasoning add depth. The honey helps balance the acidity, and the red pepper flakes give it just a hint of heat. This versatile vinaigrette works beautifully as a dressing for leafy salads, drizzled over roasted vegetables, or even as a marinade for meats. Plus, it’s quick and easy to make, with ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- Vinaigrette Base:
- 120 ml freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 60 ml vinegar (apple cider vinegar or your preferred vinegar)
- 1 to 2 cloves garlic, peeled
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 0.25 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 0.5 teaspoon kosher salt
- 0.5 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 15 ml honey or maple syrup
- 120 ml extra virgin olive oil
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Combine the Ingredients: Place the Parmesan cheese, vinegar, garlic cloves, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, kosher salt, black pepper, and honey (or maple syrup) in a blender or small food processor.
- Blend: Blend the mixture on medium speed until everything is thoroughly combined and the garlic is finely incorporated.
- Emulsify: With the blender running on low speed, gradually pour in the olive oil in a steady stream. Continue blending until the vinaigrette is smooth and emulsified.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the vinaigrette and add more salt, pepper, or honey as needed to adjust the flavor to your liking.
- Store: Transfer the vinaigrette to a clean jar or bottle with a lid. Seal tightly and refrigerate until ready to use.
Servings and Timing
- Yield: Approximately 240 ml (8 servings)
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
Variations
- Add Fresh Herbs: For an even fresher taste, try adding finely chopped fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or thyme to the vinaigrette.
- Vegan Option: For a vegan version, replace the Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor, and substitute the honey with maple syrup.
- Spicy Kick: If you prefer a spicier vinaigrette, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
- Tangier Version: Add a little extra vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice to make the vinaigrette tangier and more vibrant.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store the vinaigrette in an airtight jar or bottle in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- Reheating: This vinaigrette is best served cold or at room temperature, so there’s no need to reheat. Simply shake the jar or stir before using.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of vinegar for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any mild vinegar, such as apple cider vinegar, white vinegar, or even rice vinegar. Each will give a slightly different flavor profile, but all will work well in this vinaigrette.
Can I substitute the Parmesan cheese?
For a dairy-free or vegan version, you can substitute the Parmesan with nutritional yeast, which will provide a similar cheesy flavor. You can also use vegan Parmesan if available.
How can I make the vinaigrette thicker?
If you want a thicker vinaigrette, try adding a small spoonful of Dijon mustard or a little more Parmesan cheese. This will help emulsify the dressing and create a creamier texture.
Can I make this vinaigrette ahead of time?
Yes, the vinaigrette tastes even better after sitting for a little while, as the flavors have time to meld. You can make it a day ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator.
Can I use this vinaigrette as a marinade for meat?
Absolutely! This Parmesan vinaigrette makes a fantastic marinade for chicken, beef. Simply marinate your protein for 30 minutes to 1 hour before cooking.
How do I store the leftover vinaigrette?
Store any leftover vinaigrette in an airtight jar or bottle in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Always shake or stir before using as the ingredients may settle.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh ones?
Yes, you can use dried herbs in place of fresh herbs. Generally, use about 1/3 of the amount when substituting dried herbs for fresh. So, for 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, you can use about 1/3 teaspoon of dried oregano or thyme.
How do I adjust the sweetness of the vinaigrette?
If you’d like a sweeter vinaigrette, add more honey or maple syrup. Start with a teaspoon at a time until it reaches your preferred level of sweetness.
Can I use a blender instead of a food processor?
Yes, a blender will work perfectly for making this vinaigrette. Just ensure you blend everything on a medium-low speed and gradually add the olive oil for a smooth, emulsified texture.
Can I freeze this vinaigrette?
While vinaigrette can be frozen, the texture might change after thawing due to the olive oil. For the best results, it’s recommended to store this vinaigrette in the refrigerator and use it within a week.
Conclusion
This Parmesan Vinaigrette Garlic Blend is an easy-to-make, flavorful dressing that will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re using it for salads, dipping sauces, or marinades, the combination of tangy vinegar, aromatic garlic, and rich Parmesan cheese will elevate any dish. With its creamy, savory notes and a touch of sweetness from the honey, it’s a versatile and delicious addition to your meals. Enjoy it as a zesty topping or marinade, and let the flavors shine!
Parmesan Vinaigrette Garlic Blend: A Savory, Zesty Dressing or Marinade
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: undefined
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 batch (approximately 240 ml)
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Parmesan Vinaigrette Garlic Blend is a tangy, creamy dressing made with Parmesan cheese, garlic, and a touch of honey. Perfect as a dressing, dip, or marinade, this vinaigrette adds rich, savory flavors to any dish.
Ingredients
Vinaigrette Base:
120 ml freshly grated Parmesan cheese
60 ml vinegar (apple cider vinegar or your preferred vinegar)
1 to 2 cloves garlic, peeled
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
0.25 teaspoon red pepper flakes
0.5 teaspoon kosher salt
0.5 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
15 ml honey or maple syrup
120 ml extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
- Combine the Ingredients: Place the Parmesan cheese, vinegar, garlic cloves, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, kosher salt, black pepper, and honey (or maple syrup) in a blender or small food processor.
- Blend: Blend the mixture on medium speed until everything is thoroughly combined and the garlic is finely incorporated.
- Emulsify: With the blender running on low speed, gradually pour in the olive oil in a steady stream. Continue blending until the vinaigrette is smooth and emulsified.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the vinaigrette and add more salt, pepper, or honey as needed to adjust the flavor to your liking.
- Store: Transfer the vinaigrette to a clean jar or bottle with a lid. Seal tightly and refrigerate until ready to use.
Notes
For a vegan version, substitute Parmesan with nutritional yeast and honey with maple syrup.
Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a burst of flavor.
For a thicker dressing, add a small spoonful of Dijon mustard or more Parmesan cheese.
Increase red pepper flakes for a spicier version or add hot sauce for an extra kick.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
