House of Prime Rib Salad Dressing Recipe

There’s something magical about the iconic House of Prime Rib restaurant in San Francisco, and their legendary salad dressing is no exception.

This copycat House of Prime Rib salad dressing recipe brings that classic steakhouse flavor right into your home kitchen. With just seven simple pantry ingredients and five minutes of whisking, you can recreate the tangy, garlicky vinaigrette that’s been delighting diners for decades.

This homemade salad dressing recipe transforms ordinary greens into restaurant-quality fare, and it’s so versatile you’ll find yourself drizzling it on everything from crisp iceberg wedges to grilled proteins.

What Does It Taste Like?

This salad dressing delivers a bold, classic vinaigrette profile with sophisticated steakhouse character. The Dijon mustard provides a sharp, tangy foundation with subtle heat, while fresh garlic adds aromatic pungency that cuts through rich meats beautifully.

White wine vinegar brings bright acidity that awakens your palate, perfectly balanced by the fruity richness of extra virgin olive oil. A hint of sugar rounds out the sharpness, creating a harmonious blend that’s both zesty and smooth.

The black pepper adds a gentle spice that lingers pleasantly, making this easy salad dressing recipe incredibly crave-worthy and utterly addictive.

House of Prime Rib Salad Dressing Recipe Ingredients

• Dijon mustard – 1 tablespoon (25 grams)
• Garlic – 1 clove (fresh, minced or pressed)
• Granulated sugar – ½ teaspoon
• Salt – ½ teaspoon
• Black pepper – ½ teaspoon
• White wine vinegar – 3 tablespoons (45 ml)
• Extra virgin olive oil – ½ cup (125 ml)

Kitchen Utensils

• Mixing bowl (medium-sized)
• Whisk or fork
• Garlic press or microplane (optional)
• Measuring spoons
• Liquid measuring cup
• Storage jar or bottle with lid

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 8-10 servings (about ¾ cup total)

House of Prime Rib Salad Dressing Recipe Instructions

Step 1: Place 1 tablespoon (25 grams) of Dijon mustard into a medium mixing bowl as your emulsifying base.

Step 2: Prepare your garlic by mincing 1 clove finely, using a garlic press, or grating it on a microplane. For maximum flavor, smash the minced garlic with the flat side of your knife to release the essential oils, then add it to the bowl with the mustard.

Step 3: Add ½ teaspoon of granulated sugar to the bowl. This balances the acidity and creates a well-rounded flavor profile.

Step 4: Sprinkle in ½ teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper for seasoning and a subtle kick.

Step 5: Pour 3 tablespoons (45 ml) of white wine vinegar into the bowl. The vinegar combines with the mustard to form the acidic component of this vinaigrette.

Step 6: Slowly drizzle in ½ cup (125 ml) of extra virgin olive oil while whisking continuously. This gradual incorporation helps create a creamy, emulsified texture rather than a separated dressing.

Step 7: Whisk vigorously for 30-60 seconds until the vinaigrette appears slightly thick, creamy, and well-combined. The dressing should have a cohesive consistency.

Step 8: Taste your homemade salad dressing and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt for depth, vinegar for tanginess, or a pinch of sugar if it’s too acidic.

Step 9: Use immediately over your favorite salad greens, or transfer to a jar with a tight-fitting lid for storage.

Customization and Pairing for Serving Ideas

1. Classic Iceberg Wedge: Drizzle this copycat House of Prime Rib salad dressing over crisp iceberg lettuce wedges topped with crumbled blue cheese, cherry tomatoes, and crispy bacon bits for an authentic steakhouse experience that pairs beautifully with any prime rib dinner.

2. Grilled Protein Glaze: Use this versatile vinaigrette as a finishing sauce for grilled salmon, seared chicken breast, or pan-fried pork chops. The acidity cuts through rich, fatty meats while the garlic complements savory flavors perfectly.

3. Herb-Infused Variation: Enhance your salad dressing prime rib recipe by whisking in 1 tablespoon of finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley, chives, tarragon, or dill for a garden-fresh twist that adds color and aromatic complexity.

4. Garlic Bread Delight: Pair Garlic Bread with House of Prime Rib Chopped Salad for a classic steakhouse experience. The warm, buttery bread complements the creamy, fresh salad, making every bite rich, satisfying, and memorable.

5. Mixed Greens Medley: Toss this dressing with baby spinach, arugula, romaine hearts, and radicchio for a sophisticated salad blend. Add toasted walnuts, shaved Parmesan, and sliced pears for elevated flavor combinations.

6. Wings And Greens: Serve Mellow Mushroom Cloud 9 Wings Recipe alongside House of Prime Rib San Francisco Salad. The spicy, savory wings balance the crisp, refreshing salad, creating a perfect mix of textures and bold, complementary flavors.

7. Roasted Vegetable Topping: Transform roasted Brussels sprouts, asparagus, or root vegetables by tossing them warm with this vinaigrette. The dressing penetrates the caramelized surfaces and creates an irresistible glaze.

8. Creamy Version: For a richer, creamier texture, add 1-2 tablespoons of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt to the base before whisking. This creates a Caesar-style consistency that clings beautifully to sturdy lettuce leaves.

9. Beet Salad Fusion: Combine House of Prime Rib Beet Salad with House of Prime Rib Chopped Salad for a colorful, healthy presentation. Earthy sweetness and creamy dressing merge, offering a visually stunning and flavorful steakhouse-style salad pairing.

10. Spicy Kick: Transform this easy salad dressing recipe into something bolder by adding ¼ teaspoon of red pepper flakes, a dash of hot sauce, or ½ teaspoon of prepared horseradish for heat that complements beef dishes exceptionally well.

Tips for Perfect House of Prime Rib Salad Dressing

1. Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow your olive oil, vinegar, and mustard to come to room temperature before mixing. Cold ingredients resist emulsification and create a separated, oily dressing instead of a smooth, cohesive vinaigrette that coats greens evenly.

2. Fresh Garlic is Essential: While garlic powder might seem convenient, fresh garlic provides the authentic, pungent flavor that defines this homemade salad dressing recipe. Press or grate the garlic rather than chopping to maximize flavor release and prevent harsh, chunky bits.

3. The Whisking Technique: Whisk continuously and vigorously while adding the olive oil in a slow, steady stream. This constant agitation helps the oil molecules break down and suspend in the vinegar mixture, creating a temporary emulsion that gives your dressing body and prevents separation.

4. Quality Oil Matters: Extra virgin olive oil is worth the investment for this recipe since it’s a primary flavor component. Choose a fruity, slightly peppery oil for the most authentic steakhouse taste. Avoid low-quality or rancid oils that taste bitter or flat.

5. Mustard Selection: Dijon mustard not only provides flavor but acts as an emulsifier that holds the dressing together. Grainy mustard adds delightful texture and visual appeal, while smooth Dijon creates a more refined consistency. Avoid yellow mustard as it lacks the sophisticated flavor profile.

6. Make It Ahead: This copycat House of Prime Rib salad dressing actually improves after sitting for 30 minutes to 2 hours, allowing the garlic to mellow and flavors to marry. The vinegar also continues to work on the garlic, softening its harsh edges while maintaining aromatic intensity.

7. Shake Before Using: Vinaigrettes naturally separate over time as the oil and vinegar components divide. Always shake or whisk your stored dressing vigorously for 10-15 seconds before each use to re-emulsify and ensure every serving has balanced flavor distribution.

Storage and Reheating Guidance

Store this salad dressing prime rib recipe in an airtight glass jar or bottle in the refrigerator for up to one week. Bring to room temperature before serving and shake vigorously to re-emulsify, as separation is natural for vinaigrettes.

Common Queries and FAQs

Here, we’ve got you covered with some common questions about the House of Prime Rib Salad Dressing Recipe that people often ask.

Can I substitute red wine vinegar for white wine vinegar?

Yes, red wine vinegar works perfectly and adds a slightly deeper, more robust flavor that pairs exceptionally well with heartier greens and beef dishes. Apple cider vinegar or champagne vinegar also make excellent substitutes with their own unique character.

Why does my dressing separate after storing?

Separation is completely normal for vinaigrettes made without stabilizers or thickeners. The oil and vinegar naturally separate because they have different densities. Simply shake the jar vigorously for 15-20 seconds before each use to re-emulsify and restore the creamy texture.

Can I make this dressing dairy-free and vegan?

This homemade salad dressing recipe is already naturally dairy-free and vegan, containing no animal products. Ensure your Dijon mustard brand doesn’t contain anchovies (some specialty mustards do), and you’ll have a completely plant-based vinaigrette.

How do I make the dressing thicker and creamier?

Add 1-2 teaspoons of mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, or sour cream to create a creamier consistency. Alternatively, increase the Dijon mustard to 1.5 tablespoons or add ½ teaspoon of honey, which acts as an additional emulsifier and thickening agent.

What’s the best ratio of oil to vinegar for salad dressing?

This recipe uses the classic 3:1 ratio (three parts oil to one part vinegar), which is considered the golden standard for vinaigrettes. However, personal preference varies some prefer a tangier 2:1 ratio while others like a mellower 4:1. Adjust to taste.

Can I use dried garlic instead of fresh?

Fresh garlic is strongly recommended for authentic flavor, but if necessary, use ½ teaspoon of garlic powder as a substitute. Add it to the mustard base and let it sit for 5 minutes before proceeding to allow the dried garlic to hydrate and bloom.

Is this similar to a classic French vinaigrette?

Absolutely! This copycat House of Prime Rib salad dressing follows the traditional French vinaigrette formula with Dijon mustard, garlic, vinegar, and olive oil. The small amount of sugar is an American adaptation that creates balance and rounds out sharper acidic notes.

What vegetables pair best with this dressing?

Crisp, sturdy greens like iceberg lettuce, romaine hearts, butter lettuce, and endive work beautifully. It also complements tomatoes, cucumbers, radishes, bell peppers, and red onions. The bold flavors stand up well to heartier vegetables like grilled zucchini or roasted cauliflower.

Can I add anchovies to make it more Caesar-like?

Yes, adding 2-3 mashed anchovy fillets creates a Caesar dressing variation with umami depth. You can also add 2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese and ½ teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce for a complete Caesar transformation.

How long does homemade salad dressing last compared to store-bought?

Homemade vinaigrettes typically last 5-7 days refrigerated, while store-bought versions contain preservatives that extend shelf life to months. However, the fresh garlic in this easy salad dressing recipe is what limits longevity the trade-off for superior flavor and no artificial additives.

Does olive oil quality really matter for dressing?

Absolutely. Since olive oil comprises over 60% of this recipe, its flavor directly impacts the final result. Extra virgin olive oil provides fruity, peppery notes that complement the garlic and mustard. Regular olive oil or vegetable oil creates a flatter, less complex vinaigrette.

Can I double or triple this recipe?

Yes, this salad dressing prime rib recipe scales beautifully. Double or triple all ingredients proportionally and store in a larger jar. Larger batches are actually easier to emulsify since there’s more volume for the whisk to work with, creating better texture.

This copycat House of Prime Rib salad dressing recipe proves that restaurant-quality flavor is absolutely achievable at home with simple, quality ingredients. In just five minutes, you’ve created a versatile, homemade salad dressing that rivals any steakhouse classic.

Whether you’re tossing it with crisp greens, drizzling it over grilled proteins, or using it as a marinade, this easy salad dressing recipe will quickly become your go-to vinaigrette. Give it a try tonight and taste the difference that fresh, homemade dressing makes!

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