Quick 3-Ingredient Pesto Vinaigrette Dressing Recipe

3-Ingredient Pesto Vinaigrette is the simplest, quickest way to add big, satisfying flavor to a salad. Originally created to save time on hot days, this garlicky basil dressing is now a staple in my kitchen.

When the weather is scorching, the last thing I want is to heat up the kitchen or eat something heavy. At the same time, I don’t want a sad, uninspired meal. A fresh, pretty salad with a bright dressing hits the spot—and this 3-Ingredient Pesto Vinaigrette does exactly that.

Pesto Salad Dressing

This vinaigrette is light, flavorful, and takes about a minute to make. It’s a lively green, full of basil and garlic, and uses only pantry-friendly ingredients: prepared pesto, white wine vinegar, and finely ground Parmesan from a shaker jar. If you prefer, use homemade pesto or a refrigerated variety—either works beautifully.

White wine vinegar provides a pleasant acidity; if you don’t have it, substitute fresh lemon juice or rice vinegar in equal measure. For this dressing, the finely grated shaker-style Parmesan is ideal for texture and convenience—save fresh-grated cheese for recipes where you want that distinct melt and texture.

What ingredients do I need for a simple Pesto Vinaigrette?

Though it’s just three components, this dressing delivers concentrated flavor and will quickly become a go-to. The basic formula is ready-made pesto, vinegar, and finely grated Parmesan—simple, fast, and reliable.

I often buy fresh pesto at the deli or Mediterranean counter, but jarred pesto or your favorite homemade version will work. Use the vinegar that matches your taste—white wine vinegar is my preference. Adjust the tang and consistency with extra vinegar for a brighter dressing or a splash of olive oil for a smoother texture.

This vinaigrette keeps well in the refrigerator for up to a week, so it’s easy to make ahead and have on hand for lunches and dinners.

Great pairings for this 3-Ingredient Pesto Vinaigrette

• Bresaola Parmesan Salad
• Cheeseburger Salad
• Grilled Pesto Chicken Caprese Salad Lettuce Wraps
• Blackened Salmon Caesar Salad
• Pesto Pasta
• Any mixed greens or composed salad where you want fresh basil and garlic notes

Tools and storage

• Measuring cups
• Jar or container with a tight-fitting lid for shaking and storing
• Refrigerator for storage (up to one week)

Pesto Vinaigrette

Combine all ingredients in a jar, secure the lid, and shake vigorously for about 30 seconds until evenly blended. Taste and adjust: add more vinegar for tang or a little olive oil for a smoother, milder dressing. Store tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to a week.

This post was originally published July 2018 and updated April 2021.