We’ve always been fans of that tangy, irresistible zing in a great salad dressing, and Campisi’s version stands out as a timeless favorite from Italian-American roots. This simple yet flavorful recipe captures the essence of classic flavors we’ve come to cherish in our kitchens.
What makes Campisi’s Salad Dressing truly special is how it balances bold tastes with everyday ingredients, turning a basic salad into something extraordinary. Let’s dive in and recreate this staple together, so you can add your own twist to our go-to favorite.
Ingredients
To bring our Campisi’s Salad Dressing Recipe to life with its signature tangy flavor and Italian-American flair, we start by gathering these key ingredients. We’ll list them in the order they’re typically used, with precise measurements and any necessary prep notes for effortless preparation.
Fresh Produce and Aromatics
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – This adds a pungent, aromatic punch that forms the base of the dressing’s bold taste.
- 1 medium shallot, finely chopped – Provides a subtle, sweet onion note to balance the acidity.
Liquids and Acids
- 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil – Our go-to for its rich, fruity essence that ties everything together; use a high-quality variety for the best results.
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar – Delivers the essential tang and Italian-American authenticity; shake well before measuring.
Seasonings and Enhancers
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard – Whisk this in for a creamy texture and mild heat that emulsifies the dressing beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano – Infuse with earthy, herbaceous depth; crush lightly between your fingers to release the oils.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil – Adds a fresh, aromatic lift reminiscent of classic Italian herbs.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – Enhances all flavors; opt for sea salt for a cleaner taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground – Brings a subtle spice that complements the dressing’s vibrancy.
These ingredients combine to create a versatile dressing that elevates any salad, drawing on the Italian-American roots we highlighted earlier. Now, we’re ready to move into the preparation steps.
Instructions
We guide you through crafting Campisi’s Salad Dressing with simple, precise steps that build on our listed ingredients. This process ensures a vibrant, tangy blend perfect for elevating your salads.
Gather and Measure Ingredients
First, we collect all the key ingredients for Campisi’s Salad Dressing from our earlier list to streamline preparation. Start by pulling out 2 cloves of garlic and finely mince them for a bold, aromatic punch. Next, grab 1 medium shallot and chop it finely to add a subtle, sweet depth.
Measure ½ cup of extra-virgin olive oil for its rich, smooth base that carries the flavors. Add ¼ cup of red wine vinegar to introduce the signature tang that defines this Italian-American classic. Include 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard for a creamy, zesty kick that emulsifies the mixture.
Finally, measure 1 teaspoon of dried oregano and 1 teaspoon of dried basil for herbaceous notes, plus ½ teaspoon of salt and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper to taste. This step sets the foundation, allowing us to achieve the perfect harmony of bold tastes with everyday pantry staples.
Mix the Dressing
With ingredients gathered, we combine them in a medium bowl to create Campisi’s Salad Dressing, focusing on even integration for a silky, flavorful result. Begin by adding the minced garlic and chopped shallot to the bowl, then whisk in the Dijon mustard to form a paste-like base that releases an irresistible, pungent aroma.
Pour in the red wine vinegar next and stir vigorously to blend, noticing how it sharpens the flavors into a lively tang. Slowly drizzle the extra-virgin olive oil while continuing to whisk, forming a smooth emulsion that feels velvety on the tongue and carries the herbaceous essence.
Sprinkle in the dried oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper, then whisk for another 30 seconds until fully incorporated. This final mix produces a dressing with a fresh, earthy scent and balanced zest, ready to transform your salads into a mouthwatering masterpiece. Let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld before using.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing this timeless Campisi’s Salad Dressing recipe with you. It’s more than just a mix—it’s a way to bring fresh, vibrant flavors to our tables and spark creativity in the kitchen.
As we wrap up, remember that crafting this dressing lets us elevate everyday meals and make them our own. Let’s keep experimenting and enjoying the simple joys of homemade goodness.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Campisi’s Salad Dressing?
Campisi’s Salad Dressing is a tangy, Italian-American recipe that adds bold flavor to simple salads. It combines everyday ingredients for a perfect balance of tastes, rooted in classic traditions. This dressing elevates meals with its vibrant mix, making it easy to recreate at home and customize for your preferences.
What are the key ingredients in Campisi’s Salad Dressing?
The main ingredients include garlic for zest, shallots for a mild onion flavor, extra-virgin olive oil for smoothness, red wine vinegar for tang, Dijon mustard for creaminess, oregano and basil for herbal notes, and salt and black pepper for seasoning. Together, they create a balanced, flavorful blend that’s simple to prepare.
How do I make Campisi’s Salad Dressing?
Start by mincing garlic and chopping shallots. Measure out olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, herbs, salt, and pepper. Combine everything in a bowl, then whisk until smooth to form an emulsion. Let the flavors meld for a few minutes. This quick process yields a fresh, tangy dressing ready for your salads.
Can I customize Campisi’s Salad Dressing recipe?
Yes, absolutely! While the base uses garlic, shallots, olive oil, vinegar, mustard, and herbs, you can add personal twists like fresh lemon juice for extra zing or honey for sweetness. Experiment with quantities to match your taste, keeping the core ingredients for that authentic Italian-American flavor.
Why should I try Campisi’s Salad Dressing?
This dressing transforms ordinary salads into delicious masterpieces with its bold, tangy taste and easy preparation. Drawing from Italian-American roots, it uses simple ingredients to deliver a flavorful punch, encouraging creativity in your cooking. It’s versatile, healthy, and perfect for everyday meals or gatherings.