Kitchen Essentials: 5 Salad Dressings Consistently Stockpiled by Professional Chefs

In the world of gastronomy, the choice of salad dressing can make all the difference. Here's a round-up of some chefs' favourite salad dressings and how they're used in their culinary creations.

Chick-fil-A's Creamy Salsa has earned a place in the hearts of many, thanks to its flavourful kick and versatility. Chef Chelsea Christian of Slightly North of Broad in Charleston, SC, is a fan, using it on grilled chicken salads and breakfast burritos. The dressing is not too spicy, making it a crowd-pleaser.

Bob's Famous Bleu Cheese Salad Dressing, originated by the founder of Bob's Big Boy chains, is another favourite. Bruno Fonseca, Chef/Owner of Foreigner Restaurant & Bruno's Oysters, swears by it. He uses it for loaded wedge salads, smoked and hot chicken wings, and even as a burger pairing. Sometimes, he adds a dash of Worcestershire sauce to enhance the flavour.

Toby's Ranch Dressing, known for its thick, creamy consistency, is a favourite of Chef Sue Zemanick of Zasu in New Orleans, LA. She appreciates the onion and dill flavour it brings to her dishes. However, there's little information available about why she prefers it or which other chefs love Toby's Ranch Dressing.

Olive Garden's Signature Italian dressing is a light and versatile option, suitable for more than just salads. Chef Josh Gadsden of High Cotton in Charleston, SC, prefers it for grilling pork chops and on sandwiches or wraps. Interestingly, he also lists Ken's Steakhouse Creamy French as his second go-to dressing. Chef Gadsden uses it as a marinade for chicken, fish, or vegetables.

Ken's Steakhouse Creamy French Dressing, while not mentioned as a favourite by any specific chef in a recent article, is a staple in many kitchens. Its versatility allows it to be used in various dishes, from grilling pork chops to sandwiches and wraps.

As for Bob's Big Boy, despite the reduction in locations from 240 to 55, their original salad dressing continues to make an impact in the culinary world. With high-quality ingredients like blue cheese, mayo, sour cream, buttermilk, salt, pepper, garlic, and onion, it's no wonder why it's a favourite among chefs like Bruno Fonseca.

Lastly, it's worth mentioning Toby's Ranch Dressing, which is made with limited clean ingredients. The exact reasons for Chef Sue Zemanick's preference for this dressing remain unclear, but its unique flavour profile undeniably makes it a standout choice.

In conclusion, these salad dressings, each with their unique flavours and uses, are more than just condiments. They are essential ingredients in the culinary creations of some of the world's top chefs. Whether you're a home cook or a professional chef, these dressings can add a new dimension to your dishes.

Kitchen Essentials: 5 Salad Dressings Consistently Stockpiled by Professional Chefs