Campisi’s Salad Dressing
Let’s start with some breaking news out of my hometown of Dallas. Alex Snodgrass, known to many as “The Defined Dish” has masterfully formulated a dupe to Campisi’s House Salad dressing. As she mentions at the top of her Instagram post, this may not be of interest to those outside of Dallas - but for those of us who grew up on this salad, this is a big deal.
This is one I raced to the store for. The only ingredient I didn’t have on hand was iceberg lettuce. While I was tempted to try it with Romaine, I knew it just wouldn’t be the same. I’m also sorry to report that Alex is right in including the ½ teaspoon of sugar. I tasted the dressing before adding it and it was off balance. Sorry.
I added a side of Costco rotisserie chicken and some surprisingly good watermelon for mid-April and think it was the best lunch of the week.

My version

The Defined Dish
For the Dressing:
▢1/3 cup distilled white vinegar
▢3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
▢2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese
▢1 tablespoon pepperoncini brine
▢1 tablespoon olive brine
▢1 garlic clove, minced
▢1/2 teaspoon granulated sugar
▢1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
▢1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste
For the Salad:
▢4 cups roughly chopped iceberg lettuce (from about 1 small head)
▢4 green onions, finely chopped
▢1/4 cup finely chopped pitted green olives
▢whole pepperoncini, for serving
▢whole green olives, for serving
▢freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions
In a small jar or bowl, combine all of the dressing ingredients and whisk (or shake) to combine.
In a large bowl, combine the lettuce, green onions, and chopped olives. Drizzle the dressing over the lettuce and toss until well coated and combined.
To serve, divide the salad among 4 shallow bowls. Garnish with 1 to 2 pepperoncini, a few whole olives, and more grated Parmesan cheese.
Sonny Bryan’s Former Home is For Sale
While we’re not in the market for a new home, I do love to window shop. Last week, while perusing Zillow, I found what appears to be a real gem, both historically and design-wise. Check out this listing on North Montclair in Dallas. So many thoughtful, whimsical details like the stained glass and mosaics over the front window and as the backsplash. Sonny’s original barbecue pit is still in the backyard!




The New York Jewish Mah Jongg Festival
Lastly, for my New York subscribers, please consider attending The New York Jewish Mah Jongg Festival at the Museum of Jewish Heritage on June 28th and 29th.

GoldieLox is a sponsor and I’m planning to make the trip to NYC and hopefully meet some of you in-person! Tickets on sale now! Should be lots of fun!
Wishing you a peaceful and happy Shabbat - whatever you decide to cook - or not!
Love,
Viv
