Rich & Charlie’s Italian Salad Dressing (Light): A Taste of St. Louis Tradition, Reimagined

There are some flavors that just transport you. For me, Rich & Charlie’s Italian dressing in St. Louis is one of those. It’s the kind of dressing that made me fall in love with the simple, yet profound, pleasure of a perfectly dressed salad. I can still vividly recall those crisp, iceberg wedges, glistening with its tangy embrace, a perfect counterpoint to any hearty meal. Recreating that magic at home, with a lighter touch, felt like a culinary pilgrimage, a way to capture a cherished memory in a bowl.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: Overnight chilling
• Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
• Servings: 10-12
• Yield: Approximately 6 cups
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian

Ingredients

This dressing is a testament to how a few well-chosen ingredients can create something truly special. The beauty lies in its simplicity and the way each component plays its part.

• 6 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, freshly grated for the best flavor.
• 4 tablespoons wine vinegar – a good quality white wine vinegar is key.
• 4 tablespoons lemon juice, fresh is always preferred.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground for a bit of bite.
• 2 tablespoons sugar, to balance the acidity.
• 3 teaspoons dry mustard, for a subtle warmth and tang.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, an essential savory note.
• 1 teaspoon salt, to enhance all the flavors.
• 1 cup light Italian dressing, this is our base and where we lighten things up.
• 1 (14 ounce) can artichoke hearts, drained, offering a unique briny depth.
• 1 medium red onion, sliced, for a pungent freshness that mellows overnight.
• 1 (2 1/2 ounce) jar pimientos, drained, contributing a hint of sweetness and color.

Equipment Needed

While this recipe is remarkably straightforward, a few basic kitchen tools will make the process smooth.

• A large mixing bowl
• A whisk
• A measuring cup and spoons
• A sharp knife and cutting board for preparing the onion and pimientos.
• A storage container with a tight-fitting lid for chilling.

Instructions

The magic of this dressing truly unfolds through patience and a little overnight slumber. It’s a recipe that proves good things come to those who wait.

1. In your large mixing bowl, combine the Parmesan cheese, wine vinegar, lemon juice, pepper, sugar, dry mustard, garlic powder, and salt.
2. Whisk these ingredients together until they are well incorporated.
3. Pour in the light Italian dressing, and continue to whisk until everything is thoroughly combined.
4. Next, add the drained artichoke hearts, the sliced red onion, and the drained pimientos to the bowl.
5. Gently stir all the ingredients together, ensuring everything is coated with the dressing base.
6. Transfer the entire mixture into a storage container with a tight-fitting lid.
7. Refrigerate the dressing overnight. This crucial chilling period allows the flavors to meld, the onion to soften its bite, and the dressing to develop its signature richness.

Expert Tips & Tricks

This dressing, while simple, benefits from a few nuances that elevate it from merely good to truly exceptional.

• Quality Ingredients Matter: Even in a dressing, the quality of your Parmesan cheese, wine vinegar, and lemon juice will make a noticeable difference. Opt for freshly grated Parmesan for a smoother texture and brighter flavor.
• The Overnight Soak: Do not rush the chilling process! The transformation that happens overnight is what gives this dressing its depth and allows the raw onion to become tender and subtly sweet. It’s the secret ingredient in many beloved restaurant dressings.
• Artichoke Heart Choice: Canned artichoke hearts are perfectly fine here, but if you can find jarred artichoke hearts packed in water or brine (not oil), they can offer a slightly cleaner flavor. Be sure to drain them thoroughly regardless of your choice.
• Pimiento Power: Don’t underestimate the pimientos. They add a subtle sweetness and a vibrant pop of color that makes the dressing visually appealing. If you can’t find jarred pimientos, a finely diced roasted red pepper can be a suitable, though slightly different, substitute.
• Onion Thinness: Slicing your red onion as thinly as possible is key. This ensures that the onion pieces become tender and almost melt into the dressing as it chills, rather than remaining sharp and crunchy.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This dressing is incredibly versatile, but its true calling is as a vibrant companion to a classic wedge salad.

• Serving: Before serving, give the dressing a good stir, as some separation is natural. Spoon generously over crisp iceberg lettuce and torn red leaf lettuce. It also makes a delightful marinade for chicken or a zesty topping for grilled vegetables.
• Storage: This dressing will keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors tend to deepen and improve with age, within reason, of course!

Nutritional Information

While this is a lighter take on a classic, it still boasts vibrant flavors.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving (approx. 1/10th of recipe)	% Daily Value
Calories	97.6	N/A
Calories from Fat	N/A	N/A
Total Fat	4.8 g	7%
Saturated Fat	0.9 g	4%
Cholesterol	2.9 mg	0%
Sodium	593.8 mg	24%
Total Carbohydrate	11.5 g	3%
Dietary Fiber	2.9 g	11%
Sugars	5.1 g	20%
Protein	3.3 g	6%

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredient brands and quantities used.

Variations & Substitutions

While this recipe is designed to be a faithful, lighter rendition, there’s always room for a personal touch.

• For a truly no-fat dressing: You could experiment with a fat-free vinaigrette as your base. However, be aware that this will significantly alter the texture and richness.
• Herbaceous Addition: For an extra layer of freshness, consider adding a tablespoon or two of finely chopped fresh parsley or chives to the dressing before chilling.
• Spicier Kick: If you enjoy a bit more heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can be added alongside the black pepper.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this dressing ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! In fact, it’s essential to make it at least a day in advance to allow the flavors to meld properly.

Q: How long does the dressing last in the refrigerator?
A: This dressing can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Q: Can I use regular Italian dressing instead of light?
A: You can, but it will change the nutritional profile and make the dressing less “light.” The original recipe likely used a full-fat Italian dressing.

Q: What if I don’t have wine vinegar?
A: White wine vinegar is preferred for its mild acidity. However, you could substitute with apple cider vinegar or even plain white vinegar, though it might alter the flavor slightly.

Q: Are the artichoke hearts and pimientos essential?
A: Yes, these ingredients contribute significantly to the unique flavor and texture of this particular dressing. They are what set it apart from a standard vinaigrette.

Final Thoughts

This Rich & Charlie’s Italian Salad Dressing (light) is more than just a recipe; it’s a delicious echo of a beloved St. Louis institution, made accessible for your own kitchen. It’s proof that you don’t need heavy ingredients to achieve deep, satisfying flavor. I encourage you to give it a try, let it chill overnight, and discover the simple joy of a perfectly dressed salad. Serve it with a hearty meal, perhaps some roasted chicken or a classic Italian sandwich, and savor the taste of tradition. Don’t forget to share your creations and any delightful variations you discover!