old spaghetti factory pesto salad dressing

3 min read 05-12-2024

Meta Description: Craving that creamy, dreamy Old Spaghetti Factory pesto salad dressing? This copycat recipe recreates the iconic flavor, perfect for your next pasta salad or as a dip! Learn how to make it at home, easily and affordably.

Introduction: The Legend of the Old Spaghetti Factory Pesto Dressing

The Old Spaghetti Factory. Just the name conjures images of cozy booths, baskets of breadsticks, and of course, that incredible pesto salad dressing. It’s a creamy, vibrant, and slightly sweet pesto that elevates any salad. This recipe aims to recreate that beloved taste for your home enjoyment. Many people rave about the Old Spaghetti Factory’s unique pesto. Let's unlock its secrets!

What Makes Old Spaghetti Factory Pesto Unique?

The Old Spaghetti Factory's pesto isn't your average pesto. While the base ingredients – basil, garlic, and Parmesan – are standard, it's the additions and proportions that set it apart. It has a distinct creaminess, a touch of sweetness, and a brighter, more herbaceous flavor profile than many store-bought versions. This copycat recipe focuses on replicating that unique balance.

Ingredients You'll Need for the Copycat Recipe

This recipe is designed to be easy to follow, using common ingredients you likely already have. Here's what you'll need:

2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated is best!)
1/4 cup pine nuts (or walnuts for a budget-friendly option)
4 cloves garlic
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
1/4 cup mayonnaise (for creaminess)
2 tablespoons heavy cream (for extra richness)
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon sugar (adjust to your preference)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

How to Make the Old Spaghetti Factory Pesto Salad Dressing: A Step-by-Step Guide

Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a food processor, combine the basil, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, and garlic. Pulse until finely chopped but not completely pureed. You want some texture remaining.
Slowly Add the Oil: With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until a smooth paste forms. Scrape down the sides as needed.
Incorporate the Wet Ingredients: Add the mayonnaise, heavy cream, and lemon juice. Pulse until everything is well combined and creamy.
Season to Perfection: Stir in the sugar, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasonings to your preference. You might want more lemon juice for brightness or sugar for sweetness.
Chill and Serve: Transfer the pesto to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step enhances the overall taste.

Serving Suggestions: Beyond the Salad

While this dressing is perfect for pasta salads (try it with rotini, farfalle, or even your favorite veggie pasta), it's incredibly versatile:

Vegetable Dip: Serve with fresh vegetables like carrots, celery, and bell peppers.
Sandwich Spread: Use it as a flavorful spread for sandwiches or wraps.
Marinade: Marinate chicken, fish, or tofu before grilling or baking.
Pizza Topping: Add a dollop to your homemade pizza for a burst of fresh flavor.

Tips for Success: Mastering the Pesto

Fresh Basil is Key: Using fresh basil significantly impacts the flavor. Avoid using dried basil for this recipe.
Don't Over-Process: Over-processing can result in a bitter pesto. Pulse until smooth, but leave some texture.
Taste and Adjust: Taste the pesto as you go and adjust the seasonings to your liking.
Storage: Store leftover pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Conclusion: Recapturing the Magic at Home

This copycat Old Spaghetti Factory pesto salad dressing recipe allows you to enjoy that iconic flavor anytime you desire. With its vibrant color, creamy texture, and balanced taste, it's sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Remember to adjust the ingredients to match your personal preferences. Now, go forth and create your own delicious Old Spaghetti Factory experience!