We’ve always been fans of that irresistible tang in a great salad dressing, and Chiapparelli’s recipe delivers just that. Originating from a beloved Baltimore Italian restaurant it’s a flavorful staple that’s easy to whip up at home.
This classic blend of herbs and spices brings authentic taste to your table without the fuss. We’re sharing our spin on it so you can elevate everyday salads with confidence and a touch of tradition.
Ingredients
As we explore our Chiapparelli’s Salad Dressing Recipe, we focus on the key ingredients that create its signature tangy and herbaceous flavor. These components blend seamlessly to deliver an authentic taste inspired by the classic Italian restaurant tradition. We’ve ordered them below as they are typically incorporated during preparation, with specific prep notes for accuracy.
- Olive oil: 1/2 cup – We recommend extra-virgin for its rich, fruity notes that form the base of the emulsion.
- Red wine vinegar: 1/4 cup – Provides the sharp acidity; ensure it’s at room temperature for even mixing.
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced – Freshly minced to release its pungent aroma and enhance the dressing’s depth.
- Dijon mustard: 1 teaspoon – Acts as an emulsifier; whole-grain variety adds subtle texture if preferred.
- Dried oregano: 1 teaspoon – Crushed between our fingers to intensify its earthy flavor before adding.
- Dried basil: 1 teaspoon – Offers a sweet, peppery contrast; opt for high-quality leaves for the best taste.
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon, or to taste – We use fine sea salt to balance the flavors without overwhelming them.
- Black pepper: 1/4 teaspoon, freshly ground – Adds a mild heat; grind just before use for maximum freshness.
Equipment Needed
We believe that selecting the right equipment simplifies the process of crafting our Chiapparelli’s Salad Dressing, ensuring precise measurements and a smooth blend of flavors. With these essentials, we can achieve a restaurant-quality dressing in minutes.
Required Tools
To prepare our Chiapparelli’s Salad Dressing effectively, we rely on a few key tools that enhance accuracy and ease. Below is a detailed list of the Required Tools, organized by category for clarity:
- Measuring Tools:
- Measuring cups: Use a set of 1-cup and 1/2-cup sizes for liquids like olive oil and vinegar to guarantee exact proportions.
- Measuring spoons: Essential for smaller quantities, such as 1 teaspoon of dried oregano or 1/2 teaspoon of salt, promoting a balanced taste.
- Mixing and Blending Tools:
- Whisk: A medium-sized whisk helps us emulsify the oil and vinegar quickly, creating that signature tangy texture.
- Mixing bowl: Opt for a medium glass or stainless steel bowl to combine all ingredients without reacting to acidic elements like vinegar.
- Storage Tools:
- Airtight jar: We recommend a 16-ounce glass jar with a tight lid for shaking the dressing and storing it in the refrigerator, keeping it fresh for up to a week.
| Tool | Recommended Size/Type | Primary Use |
|---|---|---|
| Measuring cups | 1-cup and 1/2-cup | Accurate liquid measurement |
| Measuring spoons | 1 tsp, 1/2 tsp, 1 tbsp | Precise dry and wet ingredient dosing |
| Whisk | Medium (about 10-12 inches) | Emulsifying and mixing |
| Mixing bowl | Medium (2-4 quarts) | Combining all components |
| Airtight jar | 16 ounces, glass with lid | Storage and final shaking |
Instructions
We guide you through crafting Chiapparelli’s Salad Dressing with simple, precise steps that leverage the ingredients and equipment we’ve outlined. This process ensures a tangy, herbaceous blend that elevates your salads with authentic Italian flair.
Prepare the Ingredients
Before mixing, we gather and prep our key ingredients to guarantee a smooth process and balanced flavors. Start by measuring extra-virgin olive oil (1/2 cup) and red wine vinegar (1/4 cup) using accurate measuring cups for the base of our dressing. Next, finely mince garlic (2 cloves) to release its pungent aroma, which adds a sharp kick—aim for pieces no larger than 1/8 inch for even distribution.
Proceed to measure Dijon mustard (1 tablespoon) for its creamy tang, followed by dried oregano (1 teaspoon) and dried basil (1 teaspoon) to infuse earthy, herbal notes. Finally, add salt (1/2 teaspoon) and freshly ground black pepper (1/4 teaspoon) to enhance the overall zest. We recommend preparing these in the order listed to maintain workflow efficiency and prevent any cross-contamination of flavors.
Mix the Dressing
Now that our ingredients are ready, we combine them in our mixing bowl to create a vibrant, emulsified dressing with a silky texture and irresistible aroma. Begin by pouring the extra-virgin olive oil and red wine vinegar into the bowl, then whisk vigorously with the medium-sized whisk for about 30 seconds to form a base emulsion that binds the liquids.
Add the minced garlic, Dijon mustard, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and freshly ground black pepper, stirring them in with the whisk until fully incorporated—this takes roughly 1 minute and results in a fragrant mixture where the herbs release their oils for a fresh, savory scent. Continue whisking for another 1-2 minutes until the dressing thickens slightly and achieves a glossy sheen, ensuring it’s well-blended for that classic Chiapparelli tang. Once mixed, transfer to an airtight jar for immediate use or storage, where it will keep its fresh, zesty appeal.
Make-Ahead and Storage
As we perfect Chiapparelli’s Salad Dressing in our kitchens, planning ahead enhances its flavors and simplifies meal prep. We recommend making this tangy, herb-infused dressing in advance to let the blend of extra-virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, and spices meld into a more vibrant emulsion.
Making Ahead
Preparing Chiapparelli’s Salad Dressing ahead of time allows the garlic and herbs to infuse deeper notes of earthy oregano and basil, elevating its authentic Italian essence. Follow these steps for optimal results:
- Prepare the full batch: After whisking the ingredients as outlined in our step-by-step guide, transfer the emulsified dressing to an airtight jar immediately. This ensures the silky texture remains intact and prevents oxidation.
- Let it rest: Refrigerate the jar for at least 1 hour or up to 24 hours before use. During this time, the dressing develops a richer, more balanced tang that coats salads with confidence.
- Scale for convenience: If serving a crowd, double the recipe and store portions in separate containers. We find this approach keeps the dressing fresh while making it easy to grab for quick weeknight meals.
Storage Tips
Proper storage preserves the zesty, herbaceous profile of Chiapparelli’s Salad Dressing, maintaining its restaurant-quality appeal without compromise. Store it in the refrigerator to lock in the fresh, aromatic oils and prevent spoilage.
- Choose the right container: Use a glass jar with a tight-sealing lid, such as a mason jar, to avoid flavor contamination and keep the emulsion stable.
- Label for freshness: Always mark the jar with the preparation date to track its peak usability.
- Handle separation: If the dressing separates over time—a common occurrence with oil-based blends—simply whisk or shake vigorously before using to restore its smooth, creamy consistency and vivid green hues from the herbs.
Shelf Life Guidelines
Chiapparelli’s Salad Dressing holds up well when stored correctly, but we prioritize safety and quality. Below is a breakdown of its shelf life based on standard refrigeration practices:
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerated | Up to 7 days | Best for maintaining the dressing’s bold, tangy flavors and preventing bacterial growth. Check for any off odors or discoloration before use. |
| Frozen | Up to 3 months | Pour into an ice cube tray for portioned freezing, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and whisk to recombine for full flavor. |
By following these guidelines, we ensure our Chiapparelli’s Salad Dressing stays fresh and ready to enhance any salad with its signature zest.
Conclusion
We’ve explored how Chiapparelli’s Salad Dressing brings timeless Italian flair to your table with ease. It’s more than a recipe—it’s a gateway to confident home cooking that impresses every time.
Trust us, once you’ve tried it, this dressing will become a staple in your routine, enhancing meals and sparking culinary creativity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Chiapparelli’s Salad Dressing?
Chiapparelli’s Salad Dressing is a tangy, authentic Italian-inspired recipe from a popular Baltimore restaurant. It features a classic blend of extra-virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, Dijon mustard, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper for a flavorful twist on everyday salads. This easy-to-make dressing brings restaurant-quality taste to your home, enhancing meals with its harmonious herbs and spices.
What ingredients are needed for Chiapparelli’s Salad Dressing?
The key ingredients include extra-virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Each is carefully selected for a balanced, tangy flavor that captures the essence of Italian tradition. Measure them accurately for the best results in this simple recipe.
What equipment is required to make Chiapparelli’s Salad Dressing?
You’ll need measuring cups and spoons for precise ingredient dosing, a medium-sized whisk for emulsifying, a mixing bowl for combining everything, and an airtight jar for storage. These basic tools ensure a smooth, restaurant-quality dressing with minimal effort, making the process quick and efficient.
How do I make Chiapparelli’s Salad Dressing?
Start by measuring and mincing ingredients. Whisk together olive oil and red wine vinegar to form a base emulsion, then add garlic, mustard, herbs, salt, and pepper. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens and becomes silky. Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate. The whole process takes just minutes for fresh, vibrant results.
Can I prepare Chiapparelli’s Salad Dressing in advance?
Yes, making it ahead enhances the flavors as garlic and herbs infuse over time. Refrigerate for at least one hour or up to 24 hours for a richer taste. This simplifies meal prep, allowing you to have a zesty dressing ready to elevate your salads with minimal last-minute effort.
How should I store Chiapparelli’s Salad Dressing?
Store in an airtight glass jar in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. It lasts up to seven days when chilled or up to three months if frozen. Always label with the preparation date. Proper storage preserves its tangy flavor and silky texture, ensuring it’s ready for your next salad.