This dressing is inspired by the famous MVP Parmesan vinaigrette everyone loves on sandwiches and salads.
It’s creamy without being heavy, tangy but balanced, and full of that salty parmesan flavor that makes plain greens actually exciting.

Hi, my name is Dipendra Kumar. I like cooking food for my family and relatives. My friends call me a pro chef.
I make this one often, sometimes twice a week, because it works with almost anything.
Before diving in, here’s a quick overview so you know what to expect.
Cuisine: American-Italian inspired
Prep time: about 10 minutes
Cook time: none
Servings: about 8 servings
What Is MVP Parmesan Vinaigrette?
MVP Parmesan Vinaigrette is a bold, creamy vinaigrette-style dressing made with olive oil, vinegar, parmesan cheese, garlic, and a touch of sweetness.
It’s not thick like ranch and not thin like a classic vinaigrette either.
It sits right in the middle, which is why it works so well for salads, sandwiches, and even roasted vegetables.
I like to think of it as one of those “everything” dressings. It clings to lettuce, soaks into bread just enough, and adds flavor without drowning whatever you’re eating.
Why I Love This Dressing So Much
I always say homemade dressings are one of the easiest ways to make food taste better without much effort.
This one especially feels rewarding because it comes together fast but tastes like something you’d get at a restaurant.
I love that I can control the salt, the tang, and the sweetness. Some days I want it sharper, other days a little smoother and creamier. This recipe gives you that flexibility without overthinking it.
Equipment Needed
The ingredients matter; if all the ingredients are in the right proportions and fresh, the taste and deliciousness of the food are greatly enhanced.
I always keep equipment simple for dressings. Here’s what I use most of the time.
| Amount | Name | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mixing bowl | Medium size works best |
| 1 | Whisk | For emulsifying |
| 1 | Measuring cups | For oil and vinegar |
| 1 | Measuring spoons | For seasonings |
| 1 | Jar with lid | For storage |
| Optional | Blender or immersion blender | For extra smooth texture |
Ingredients Needed
Fresh, good-quality ingredients really matter here, especially the Parmesan and olive oil.
| Amount | Unit | Name | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1/3 | cup | Parmesan cheese | Freshly grated |
| 1/3 | cup | Extra-virgin olive oil | Good quality |
| 2 | tablespoons | White wine vinegar | Can sub red wine vinegar |
| 1 | tablespoon | Dijon mustard | Helps emulsify |
| 1 | teaspoon | Honey | Or sugar |
| 1 | clove | Garlic | Finely minced |
| 1–2 | tablespoons | Lemon juice | Optional but recommended |
| To taste | — | Salt | Start small |
| To taste | — | Black pepper | Fresh cracked |
Best Parmesan to Use
I always recommend buying a block of Parmesan and grating it yourself. Pre-grated cheese doesn’t blend the same and can make the dressing gritty.
Fresh parmesan melts into the oil and vinegar much better and gives you that smooth, slightly creamy texture.
If you want a sharper flavor, you can mix in a little Pecorino, but it is saltier, so I usually reduce the added salt when I do that.
How to Make MVP Parmesan Vinaigrette
This recipe is very forgiving, which I appreciate. You don’t need perfect technique, just a little patience.
Step 1
Add the parmesan cheese, vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, honey, lemon juice if using, salt, and pepper to a mixing bowl.
I like to combine everything except the olive oil first so the flavors start blending right away.
Step 2
Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously. This helps the dressing emulsify and keeps it from separating too quickly.
If you’re using a blender or immersion blender, just add everything at once and blend until smooth.
Step 3
Taste the dressing and adjust. Sometimes I add a pinch more salt, sometimes a splash more vinegar or lemon juice. This part really depends on your personal taste, so don’t skip it.
Step 4
Let the dressing sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This small rest makes a big difference because the flavors settle and mellow out together.
How to Make It Extra Smooth
If you want a restaurant-style smooth vinaigrette, blending is the way to go.
A food processor or immersion blender breaks down the cheese completely and gives you that pourable texture.
If the dressing feels too thick after blending, add one tablespoon of water at a time until it loosens up.
I’ve noticed different Parmesan brands absorb liquid differently, so this step can vary.
Whisking vs Blending
When I’m short on time, I whisk. When I want a super smooth finish, I blend. Both work and both taste great.
Whisked versions are slightly textured and feel more rustic, while blended versions are silky and drizzle-friendly.
Recipe Tips I’ve Learned Over Time
Always start with less salt than you think you need because Parmesan is already salty.
Use good olive oil; you really taste it here.
Let the dressing rest before using; it matters more than you’d expect.
Shake or whisk again before serving since separation is normal.
Variations I Like to Make
Sometimes I switch things up depending on what I’m serving it with.
For a lemon version, I use more lemon juice and slightly less vinegar.
For a spicy version, I add red pepper flakes or chili oil.
For a creamier version, I blend in a spoon of Greek yogurt or mayo.
For a garlic-heavy version, I add an extra clove, but I keep it finely minced.
How I Use MVP Parmesan Vinaigrette
I use this dressing on chopped salads, romaine salads, pasta salads, and grain bowls. It’s amazing on turkey or chicken sandwiches and really good drizzled over roasted potatoes or broccoli.
I’ve even used it as a light marinade for chicken before grilling, and it worked surprisingly well.
Storage and Shelf Life
I store this dressing in a sealed jar in the refrigerator. It keeps well for about 4 to 5 days.
Because it contains cheese and garlic, I always give it a quick smell and taste before using, just to be safe.
If it thickens in the fridge, I let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes and shake it again.
Why the Dressing Separates
Oil and vinegar naturally separate, so this is completely normal. Just shake or whisk before serving. If you want it to stay emulsified longer, add a little extra Dijon mustard.
Nutrition Information
- Calories: about 120
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated fat: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Sodium: varies depending on Parmesan
- Sugar: about 1g
Nutrition Benefits
Olive oil provides heart-healthy fats, Parmesan adds calcium and protein, garlic offers antioxidants, and vinegar helps balance flavors without needing heavy ingredients.
It’s not a low-calorie dressing, but it’s made with real, simple foods, which I personally prefer.

MVP Parmesan Vinaigrette Recipe
Equipment
- 1 Mixing bowl Medium size
- 1 Whisk For emulsifying
- 1 Measuring cups Liquid measuring cup
- 1 Measuring spoons For seasoning
- 1 Jar with lid For storage
- 1 Blender or Immersion Blender For extra smooth texture
Ingredients
- 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese Freshly grated
- 1/3 cup Extra-virgin olive oil Good quality
- 2 tablespoons White wine vinegar Or red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard Helps emulsify
- 1 teaspoon Honey Or sugar
- 1 clove Garlic Finely minced
- 1 tablespoon Lemon juice Optional
- To taste — Salt Start small
- To taste — Black pepper Fresh cracked
Instructions
Step 1:
- Add the parmesan cheese, white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, garlic, lemon juice (if using), salt, and black pepper to a mixing bowl. I like to mix these first so the flavors start coming together.

Step 2:
- Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously until the dressing looks creamy and well combined. If using a blender or immersion blender, blend everything until smooth.

Step 3:
- Taste the vinaigrette and adjust seasoning as needed. Sometimes I add a pinch more salt or a small splash of vinegar, depending on my mood.

Step 4:
- Let the dressing rest for about 10 minutes before serving, then whisk or shake once more and use as desired.

Notes
FAQs:-
Is MVP Parmesan Vinaigrette creamy or vinaigrette-style?
It’s a creamy vinaigrette, not thick like ranch but richer than a classic oil-and-vinegar dressing.
Can I make MVP Parmesan Vinaigrette without a blender?
Yes, you can whisk it by hand or shake it in a jar. It may be slightly textured, but it still tastes great.
What cheese works best for MVP Parmesan Vinaigrette?
Freshly grated Parmesan works best. Pre-grated or powdered cheese won’t blend as smoothly.
How long does homemade MVP Parmesan Vinaigrette last?
It keeps well in the fridge for about 4 to 5 days in an airtight container.
Why does my Parmesan vinaigrette separate?
Oil and vinegar naturally separate. Just shake or whisk it again before using.
Conclusion:-
I really think this MVP Parmesan Vinaigrette Recipe is one of those staples worth mastering.
It’s easy, flexible, and makes everyday meals taste better without much effort. I make it often, tweak it based on mood, and somehow never get bored with it.
If you try it once, there’s a good chance it’ll end up on repeat in your kitchen too.
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