Panera Bread Greek Salad Dressing Recipe

Panera Bread Greek Salad Dressing is a robust, herb-filled vinaigrette popular for its sharp and authentic Mediterranean bite. Ideally the garlic should be finely minced or pressed to ensure its pungent flavour is evenly distributed throughout the oil and vinegar.

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Panera Bread Greek Salad Dressing Recipe Ingredients

• ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
• ⅓ cup red wine vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1½ tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard (acts as an emulsifier)
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
• ¼ tsp sugar or honey (to balance the acidity)
• A pinch of dried basil or thyme (optional)

How To Make Panera Bread Greek Salad Dressing Recipe

1. Combine Base Ingredients: In a small glass jar or a medium mixing bowl, combine the red wine vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, sugar, salt, and black pepper.
2. Bloom the Herbs: Add the dried oregano and any optional herbs. For the best result, rub the dried oregano between your clean palms as you drop it in to release the aromatic oils.
3. Emulsify: If using a jar, secure the lid tightly and shake vigorously for 30 seconds. If using a bowl, slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil while whisking constantly until the dressing is thick and well-combined.
4. Rest: Allow the dressing to sit at room temperature for at least 15 to 20 minutes before serving. This allows the dry herbs to rehydrate and the garlic to infuse into the oil.
5. Final Shake: Give the dressing one final shake or whisk just before drizzling over your salad, as natural separation will occur.

Recipe Tips

• Olive Oil Quality: Since olive oil makes up the bulk of the recipe, use a high-quality “Extra Virgin” variety for a peppery, fruity finish that matches the restaurant’s quality.
• Mustard Secret: The Dijon mustard isn’t just for flavor; it keeps the oil and vinegar from separating too quickly, resulting in a creamier mouthfeel.
• Vinegar Ratio: If you prefer a less “tangy” dressing, you can increase the olive oil to ⅔ cup.
• Fresh vs. Dried: While fresh oregano is wonderful, dried oregano is actually preferred here because it provides that concentrated, earthy “Greek” flavor characteristic of bottled dressings.

What To Serve With Panera Bread Greek Salad Dressing

Greek dressing applications are versatile kitchen essentials frequently used to marinade meats or brighten up garden-fresh produce. Ideally the feta cheese should be crumbled just before serving to maintain its creamy texture against the sharp acidity of the vinaigrette.

• A classic Greek salad with Romaine, Kalamata olives, cucumbers, and red onions
• Grilled chicken or lamb skewers as a marinade
• Roasted Mediterranean vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant
• A side of warm pita bread or Panera Bread Green Goddess Salad

How To Store Panera Bread Greek Salad Dressing

• Refrigerate: Store the dressing in an airtight glass jar in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
• Solidification: High-quality olive oil may solidify or become cloudy when cold. Simply let the jar sit at room temperature for 10 minutes and give it a good shake before using.
• Freeze: This recipe is not suitable for freezing, as the emulsion will break and the garlic texture will become unappealing.

Panera Bread Greek Salad Dressing Nutrition Facts

• Calories: ~130 kcal (per 2-tbsp serving)
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 14g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 0.5g

Nutrition information is estimated based on approximately 6 servings per batch.

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