This Creamy Parmesan Dressing provides an easy way to whip up restaurant-style salads at home! Made with a base of mayo and buttermilk, enhanced by a touch of lemon juice, and finished with freshly grated parmesan, it’s a fabulous accompaniment to any meal.
This Creamy Parmesan Dressing is precisely that for me. It’s a remarkably simple recipe that results in the ultimate best dressing for salads, sandwiches, wraps, and much more!
Why I ADORE this recipe!
- Better than store-bought!— Making your own dressing is straightforward, and the taste is second to none!
- Simple ingredients— Most of these items are likely already in your pantry.
- Versatile— This Creamy Parmesan Dressing is excellent for a hearty salad or as a spread for sandwiches, wraps, fresh veggies, pasta salads, and beyond. Its adaptability is outstanding!
Recipe Insights
This Creamy Italian Salad Dressing recipe is genuinely as easy as it sounds! With just 10 minutes of prep time and a few basic components, you can create a tasty and customizable condiment that the entire family will love.
In this segment, I’ll share some tips and tricks to help you craft the best Creamy Salad Dressing possible.
Don’t forget to scroll down for the COMPLETE recipe card!
Ingredients + Alternatives
- Mayonnaise— I recommend using regular, full-fat mayo for the richest taste and thickest texture.
- Buttermilk
- Garlic
- Lemon Juice
- Worcestershire Sauce— A dash of this adds a lovely umami flavor to enhance the creamy mayo.
- Salt and Pepper
- Parmesan Cheese
Make sure to check the recipe card at the bottom of this post for the complete list of ingredients and their quantities.
Recipe Variations
If you enjoy this recipe as much as we do and want to explore some quick variations, here are a couple of ideas to inspire you!
- Spicy Parmesan Dressing— Introduce some heat with a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
- Light Parmesan Dressing— Substitute full-fat mayo with a lighter option for a milder dressing that’s still tasty!
Recipe Guide
I’m going to highlight a few key steps in the recipe, but be sure to refer to the recipe card for detailed instructions on preparing the Creamy Salad Dressing.
Next, add garlic, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and season with salt and pepper as desired.
Top with freshly grated parmesan cheese.
Combine well and then allow it to chill in the fridge for 20 minutes before serving.
Recipe Tips
- Choose freshly grated parmesan – Although I recommend using freshly grated parmesan for the best flavor, pre-shredded cheese can also save time. The difference in taste is minimal, so your dressing will still be excellent!
- Chill before serving – Letting the dressing sit in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes before serving allows it to thicken and achieve a creamier texture.
Recipe Short Cuts
If you’re in a hurry but want to prepare this dressing, consider these shortcuts!
- Use pre-shredded parmesan – While I highlighted the benefits of fresh parmesan, if your schedule is tight, pre-shredded cheese will still yield delicious results!
- Make it ahead – You can whip this dressing up in just 10 minutes, and it will keep in the fridge for up to two weeks. Prepare it beforehand so it’s available when you need it.
Pairing Suggestions for Creamy Parmesan Dressing
This rich dressing is excellent on salads, but there are plenty of other delightful ways to enjoy it.
Choose one or more of these inspiring ideas to incorporate your homemade dressing into your meals.
Recipe Inspirations
How to Store Creamy Parmesan Salad Dressing
Keep your homemade dressing in the refrigerator, where it usually remains good for about two weeks in your preferred container. In fact, I’ve found it can often last even longer!
Before serving, give it a good shake or stir to ensure the flavors are well mixed.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Recipe
What contributes to the creamy texture of Creamy Italian Salad Dressing?
The creamy consistency and rich taste come from the combination of mayonnaise and buttermilk that forms the base of this dressing.
Additional SIMPLE Dressing Recipes
If you enjoyed this recipe, I invite you to explore more simple recipes for your busy evenings!
You can check out all my easy salad recipes here, or take a look at some of our readers’ favorite dressing recipes listed below.
Creamy Parmesan Dressing
This Creamy Parmesan Dressing offers a simple way to whip up restaurant-quality salads right in your kitchen! Made with a mayo and buttermilk base, this dressing is perked up with a touch of lemon juice and topped with freshly grated parmesan.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
servings
Instructions
In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, buttermilk, garlic, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
Stir in the parmesan cheese until thoroughly mixed.
Refrigerate the dressing for at least 20 minutes, or until you are set to serve, allowing the flavors to meld.
Nutrition Information
Serving: 1tablespoon, Calories: 69kcal (3%), **Nutritional Information**
– **Carbohydrates:** 1 g
– **Protein:** 2 g (4%)
– **Fat:** 7 g (11%)
– **Saturated Fat:** 2 g (13%)
– **Polyunsaturated Fat:** 3 g
– **Monounsaturated Fat:** 2 g
– **Trans Fat:** 0.01 g
– **Cholesterol:** 6 mg (2%)
– **Sodium:** 156 mg (7%)
– **Potassium:** 15 mg
– **Fiber:** 0.01 g
– **Sugar:** 0.3 g
– **Vitamin A:** 42 IU (1%)
– **Vitamin C:** 0.3 mg
– **Calcium:** 51 mg (5%)
– **Iron:** 0.1 mg (1%)
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