Copycat Easy Lou Malnati’s Salad Dressing Recipe

Last updated on February 18th, 2024 at 03:49 pm

The Lou Malnati’s Salad Dressing Recipe is an easy, healthy, and customizable 4-step guide that helps you make the most delicious salad.

Lou Malnati’s Salad Dressing is a sweet and tangy dressing that is a perfect complement to any salad. The dressing is a combination of sugar, white wine vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, grated Parmesan cheese, dried Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and Kosher salt.

The salad dressing is a staple at Lou Malnati’s, a famous Chicago-based pizzeria, and is a must-try for anyone who visits the restaurant. The salad itself is a combination of romaine lettuce, tomatoes, mushrooms, black olives, blue cheese, and crispy salami, topped with the sweet Italian dressing.

Why Should You Choose This Recipe?

If you’re a fan of the famous Chicago deep-dish pizza restaurant Lou Malnati’s, you’ll love this creamy salad dressing recipe. It’s designed to replicate that signature Malnati’s flavor you enjoy on their pizzas and pastas, transforming your everyday salads and veggies into something extraordinary.

There are several reasons why you should add Lou Malnati’s salad dressing to your rotation of homemade condiments:

It’s Incredibly Creamy and Rich

The base includes mayonnaise and sour cream, blended with savory Parmesan cheese. Every bite coats your mouth with a luscious texture and full flavor.

The Blend of Seasonings is Perfect

Onion and garlic powders, along with oregano, basil, parsley, and red pepper flakes give it that quintessential pizza parlor taste. It will bring you right back to your favorite neighborhood Chicago pizzeria!

It’s Versatile

Drizzle this dressing over your favorite leafy greens, sliced tomatoes, grilled veggies, pasta salads, and sandwich wraps – the possibilities are endless! The dynamic flavors pair well with so many ingredients.

It’s Sure to be a Crowd-Pleaser

If you’re making salad or antipasti for a party, this dressing is guaranteed to draw people back for seconds. The rich flavors appeal to adults and kids alike.

It’s Quick and Easy to Prepare

With only 8 ingredients that you likely have in your pantry already, this dressing comes together in just 5 minutes. The perfect simple recipe to add excitement to weeknight dinners.

Health Benefits of Lou Malnati’s Salad Dressing

Some of the key health benefits of Lou Malnati’s Salad Dressing are:

• Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: The salad is full of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, magnesium, and iron.
• High Fiber Content: The salad is high in fiber, which takes a long time to be digested by the body. This can help maintain healthy bowel movements and prevent constipation.
• Protein Source: The salad can be a good source of protein, depending on the ingredients used.
• Healthy Fats: The use of olive oil in the dressing provides healthy fats, which are essential for heart health.

How to Make Lou Malnati’s Salad Dressing

Making Lou Malnati’s salad dressing is fun and easy. You’ll only need a small number of equipment and ingredients. So, get your apron, and let’s start cooking!

Equipment Needed for Lou Malnati’s Salad Dressing

To prepare Chicken Salad Chick Buffalo Barclay, you will need the following equipment:

• Whisk: To blend the sugar, vinegar, oil, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and salt.
• Mixing Bowl: To mix all the ingredients.
• Measuring Spoons and Cups: To measure the ingredients accurately.
• Garlic Press or Knife: To cut the garlic in halves.

Ingredients Needed for Lou Malnati’s Salad Dressing

Here are the ingredients that you’ll need for Lou Malnati’s salad dressing recipe:

• Sugar: 4 tbsp sugar
• Vinegar: 4 tbsp white wine vinegar
• Olive Oil: 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
• Cheese: 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
• Seasoning: 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
• Garlic Powder: 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt: 1 tsp Kosher salt

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Lou Malnati’s Salad Dressing

Here are the step-by-step instructions to prepare Lou Malnati’s Salad Dressing:

Step 1: Measure the Ingredients

Measure out 4 tablespoons of sugar, 4 tablespoons of white wine vinegar, 1/3 cup of extra virgin olive oil, 2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon of dried Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon of Kosher salt.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar, vinegar, oil, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and salt. Make sure to whisk until the sugar is completely dissolved and the dressing is well combined.

Step 3: Set Aside

Once the dressing is well combined, set it aside. This allows the flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Serve

When you’re ready to serve the salad, give the dressing a good shake or stir to ensure it’s well-mixed. If the dressing separates while in the fridge, give it a good shake before using.

Pro Tips for Making Lou Malnati’s Salad Dressing

Here are some tips for making Lou Malnati’s Salad Dressing like a pro:

Quality Ingredients

Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor. This includes using extra virgin olive oil, fresh garlic, and good-quality Parmesan cheese.

Whisk Well

Whisk together the sugar, vinegar, oil, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and salt until well combined. This will help to emulsify the dressing and ensure a smooth, even texture.

Taste and Adjust

After whisking, taste the dressing and adjust the seasonings as needed. You might want to add more salt, garlic powder, or Italian seasoning depending on your preference.

Chill Before Serving

For the best flavor, refrigerate the dressing for at least an hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together.

Shake Before Using

If the dressing separates while in the fridge, give it a good shake before using.

Serve Cold

At the restaurant, the salad is served on an ice-cold salad plate. So, you might want to put your plates in the freezer for a few minutes before piling the salad on them.

Nutritional Values of Lou Malnati’s Salad Dressing

Lou Malnati’s Sweet Vinaigrette Salad Dressing has the following nutritional values per serving:

• Calories 650
• Total Fat 52g
• Saturated Fat 14g
• Trans Fat 0g
• Cholesterol 57mg
• Sodium 2082mg
• Total Carbohydrate 30g
• Dietary Fiber 5g
• Sugars 23g
• Protein 20g

Fun Ways to Customize Lou Malnati’s Salad Dressing Recipe

Here are some fun ways to customize Lou Malnati’s Salad Dressing Recipe:

• Add Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or dill can add a new layer of flavor to the dressing.
• Spice it Up: If you like a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Citrus Zest: Add some lemon or lime zest for a refreshing citrus twist.
• Cheese Variations: Try using different types of cheese like Romano or Asiago instead of Parmesan.
• Sweeten with Honey: If you prefer a sweeter dressing, consider replacing the sugar with honey.
• Creamy Version: For a creamier dressing, add a spoonful of Greek yogurt or sour cream.
• Add Nuts: Crushed almonds or walnuts can add a nice crunch and additional flavor.
• Fruit Infused: Consider adding a splash of fruit juice like orange or pineapple for a fruity flavor.

Closure

In conclusion, Lou Malnati’s Salad Dressing is a delightful blend of flavors that can elevate any salad to new heights. Its unique combination of ingredients creates a dressing that is tangy, sweet, and rich, making it a favorite among many. It also offers several health benefits, including a good dose of vitamins and minerals, fiber, protein, and healthy fats.

Making this dressing at home is a simple process that requires just a few common kitchen tools and ingredients. By following the detailed steps provided, you can recreate this iconic dressing in your own kitchen.

Whether you’re a fan of Lou Malnati’s or just looking for a new dressing to try, this recipe is sure to impress. So, the next time you’re in the mood for a salad, give Lou Malnati’s Salad Dressing a try. You might just find your new favorite!

FAQs about Lou Malnati’s Salad Dressing Recipe

What are the Main Ingredients in Lou Malnati’s Salad Dressing?

The main ingredients in Lou Malnati’s Salad Dressing are sugar, white wine vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, grated Parmesan cheese, dried Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and Kosher salt.

How Do I Prepare Lou Malnati’s Salad Dressing?

To prepare the dressing, whisk together the sugar, vinegar, oil, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and salt. Once the dressing is well combined, set it aside.

Does the Dressing Need to be Refrigerated?

While it’s not explicitly stated, it’s generally a good idea to refrigerate dressings after they’re made to help preserve them and keep them fresh.

Can I Adjust The Recipe to Suit My Taste?

Absolutely! The key to a great salad dressing is balance, so don’t be afraid to adjust the recipe to suit your taste.

Is The Taste of The Homemade Dressing Comparable to The Restaurant’s Dressing?

Yes, the homemade dressing is said to taste just like the restaurant’s dressing.