Old Spaghetti Factory Creamy Pesto Dressing: Easy Copycat Recipe

Transform ordinary salads with this spot-on copycat of Old Spaghetti Factory’s beloved creamy pesto dressing that combines the rich tang of buttermilk and mayonnaise with the sharp bite of Romano cheese and aromatic dried basil. This versatile dressing goes far beyond salads, serving as an excellent marinade for chicken, a dipping sauce for vegetables, or even a unique pasta sauce that will have your family asking for the recipe.

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Why This Recipe Works

This creamy pesto dressing succeeds because it balances rich, tangy, and savory elements through careful ingredient selection and proper technique. The mayonnaise provides luxurious creaminess while buttermilk adds tangy complexity and helps thin the consistency to perfect coating texture. Romano cheese contributes sharp, nutty flavor that’s more assertive than Parmesan, while dried basil delivers concentrated herbal notes that won’t wilt or discolor like fresh herbs. The small amount of hot pepper sauce adds subtle heat that enhances rather than overwhelms other flavors. The overnight resting period allows ingredients to meld and flavors to develop fully.

Ingredients

Creamy Base Foundation

• Mayonnaise – Provides rich, creamy texture and helps emulsify other ingredients
• Quality mayonnaise essential – Use full-fat mayonnaise for best texture and flavor
• Room temperature recommended – Easier mixing and smoother final consistency

Liquid Component

• Buttermilk – Adds tangy flavor and creates proper pouring consistency
• Fresh buttermilk preferred – Better flavor than powdered alternatives
• Acidic balance important – Complements rich mayonnaise base perfectly

Fat Enhancement

• Vegetable oil – Provides additional richness and helps create smooth texture
• Neutral flavor important – Allows other flavors to shine without interference
• Emulsification aid – Helps create a stable, creamy consistency

Flavor Components

• Romano cheese – Sharp, nutty flavor that’s more assertive than Parmesan
• Freshly grated preferred – Better flavor and texture than pre-grated options
• Aged varieties – More complex flavor development

Aromatic Elements

• Dried basil – The concentrated herbal flavor that defines this dressing
• Quality dried herbs – Fresh, vibrant color indicates better flavor retention
• Specific to recipe – Fresh basil changes flavor profile significantly

Seasoning Balance

• Salt – Enhances all other flavors and balances richness
• Fresh garlic – Provides aromatic depth and pungent complexity
• Hot pepper sauce – Subtle heat that enhances without overwhelming

How to Make Creamy Pesto Dressing

1. Whisk together oil and mayonnaise.
2. Add remaining ingredients and stir or whisk to combine.
3. Cover and refrigerate overnight.

6 Pro Tips for Making a Good Salad

1. Season your greens. Don’t just rely on the seasoning in your dressing; chefs make a point of also seasoning their greens. Fresh produce shines with just a touch of salt and pepper.
2. Use a mix of greens. Keep flavor and texture in mind when you mix. Iceberg and romaine have more of a crunch than arugula and spinach. Arugula or watercress will add a peppery bite.
3. Don’t overlook fresh herbs. Go beyond lettuce and include some fresh herbs. Leafier herbs such as parsley and cilantro can count as greens in their own right. Cilantro is also good in a taco salad. Use fresh basil in a tomato-mozzarella salad, and toss in some mint with a feta-olive salad.
4. Think beyond greens. While most people think of greens when it comes to salads, greens don’t necessarily need to be the stars. Think about other vegetables, nuts, dried or fresh fruits, croutons, and grains.
5. Don’t be afraid of fat. Chefs don’t do away with fat, and neither should you. Fat equals flavor – it makes salads taste better and be more filling. Include some fat in your dressing (olive, avocado, or peanut oil) or add ingredients like bacon, smoked salmon, cheese, avocado, and toasted nuts.
6. Dress it before you plate it. Dressing your salad this way allows the dressing to coat all the ingredients evenly. Leaving the dressing on the side encourages people to pour on too much and overwhelm the flavors. Add the dressing just before you eat and go slowly – a salad can go from great to overdressed very quickly!

Storage & Usage Instructions

• Refrigerator Storage: For optimal freshness and food safety, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
• Separation Normal: Ingredients may separate during storage – whisk before use to restore smooth consistency.
• Make-Ahead Perfect: Flavors improve with time, making this ideal for meal prep and preparation.
• Serving Temperature: Serve chilled for best flavor and texture experience.
• Freezing Not Recommended: Dairy-based dressing doesn’t freeze well and will separate upon thawing.

Love homemade salad dressings? Try these recipes

• Applebees Oriental Salad Dressing Recipe
• Japanese Dressing
• Olive Garden Vinaigrette Dressing
• Restaurant Style Blue Cheese Dressing
• Hot Bacon Salad Dressing Recipe
• Spicy Caesar Salad
• New Orleans Salad Dressing
• Ginger Salad Dressing
• Buttermilk Salad Dressing
• Green Jacket Salad Dressing

 

Be sure to look at my restaurant salads and copycat salad dressing recipes.