Olive Garden Salad Recipe: Bring the Italian Restaurant Home!

Craving that crisp, refreshing salad from Olive Garden? You know, the one that always seems to kick off your meal perfectly? Well, get ready to skip the wait and the bill because you can recreate it at home, and it’s surprisingly simple! This recipe captures all the familiar flavors – the crunchy lettuce, the tangy dressing, and the salty Parmesan – in a way that’s fresh, satisfying, and ready in a flash. It’s a vibrant bowl of happiness, ideal for a light lunch, a side to your favorite pasta, or whenever you need a little taste of Italy in your day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic Taste: This salad tastes just like the one you’d get at Olive Garden. The dressing is spot-on, capturing that zesty, tangy flavor perfectly.
• Quick and Easy: You can have this salad on the table in about 25 minutes. Most of the time is spent chopping vegetables – easy peasy!
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the ingredients to your liking. More olives? Sure! Less red onion? No problem! Make it your own!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this recipe, quality ingredients are key. Here’s what you’ll need to create the perfect Olive Garden Salad:

• Lettuce: A mix of iceberg and romaine provides the best texture – crisp yet sturdy.
• Red Cabbage: Adds a pop of color and a bit of crunch.
• Carrots: Julienned carrots are the way to go for that classic Olive Garden look and feel.
• Red Onion: Adds a pungent flavor; use sparingly if you prefer a milder taste.
• Black Olives: These provide a salty, briny flavor that complements the other ingredients.
• Roma Tomatoes: Sliced tomatoes add a juicy sweetness to the salad.
• Pepperoncinis: A must for that slightly spicy, tangy kick.
• Croutons: The store-bought croutons are perfect for the occasion.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor. Freshly grated is highly recommended.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: The base of the dressing. Choose a smooth, mild variety.
• Zesty Italian Dressing Mix: This is the secret ingredient! It’s the key to that signature Olive Garden flavor.
• White Vinegar: Adds tanginess to the dressing.
• Water: Helps to balance the dressing’s flavors and consistency.
• Grated Romano Cheese: For the dressing. Parmesan can be substituted if needed.
• Sugar: Balances the acidity of the vinegar.
• Mayonnaise: Adds creaminess and richness to the dressing.
• Dijon Mustard: Adds a bit of tang and depth to the dressing.
• Italian Seasoning: Adds a savory, herbaceous note.
• Salt: Enhances the flavors of all the ingredients.
• Pepper: Adds a bit of spice.
• Garlic Powder: Adds a savory note.

Variations

Want to put your spin on this classic salad? Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Add Protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas would be great additions.
• Swap the Cheese: Try using feta, mozzarella, or even blue cheese for a different flavor profile.
• Include Other Veggies: Cucumber, bell peppers, or celery would add extra crunch and flavor.
• Make it a Meal: Add some cooked pasta or quinoa to make it a more substantial meal.

How to Make Olive Garden Salad

Step 1: Make the Dressing

In a mini food processor or a jar with a lid, combine the olive oil, Zesty Italian dressing mix, white vinegar, water, Romano cheese, sugar, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Blend or shake well to combine and emulsify. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 2: Prepare the Salad Ingredients

Wash and chop the lettuce, shred the red cabbage, and julienne the carrots. Slice the red onion and roma tomatoes. Use a paper towel to absorb any excess moisture from the sliced tomatoes.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the lettuce, red cabbage, carrots, red onion, black olives, and tomatoes.

Step 4: Dress and Serve

Drizzle with the desired amount of salad dressing and toss to combine. Sprinkle with croutons and Parmesan cheese and serve immediately.

this Recipe

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Lettuce: For the best texture, use a combination of iceberg and romaine lettuce.
• Tomatoes: Roma tomatoes work best, but cocktail tomatoes are a great alternative.
• Pepperoncini Peppers: Find these jarred near the pickles and olives in your grocery store.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese is the way to go. I suggest grating it from a wedge.
• Olive Oil for Dressing: Opt for extra virgin olive oil with a smooth flavor to avoid overpowering the other ingredients.
• Mix Just Before Serving: To ensure a crisp and fresh salad, toss it with the dressing just before serving.

How to Serve

This Olive Garden Salad pairs perfectly with almost anything! Enjoy it as a light lunch, a refreshing side dish, or alongside your favorite Italian meal. For an Olive Garden experience, try it with my Olive Garden Alfredo!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store the salad ingredients separately from the dressing in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Storing Dressing

Leftover dressing can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

If the leftover dressing solidifies during storage, let it sit at room temperature until it liquifies, then shake to combine and serve.

Reheating

This salad is best served cold, so reheating is not necessary.

FAQs

1. Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Yes, absolutely! In fact, the dressing benefits from sitting for a while, allowing the flavors to meld together. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

2. Can I add other vegetables to the salad?

Of course! Feel free to add other vegetables like cucumber, bell peppers, or celery to add extra crunch and flavor.

3. What if I don’t have Zesty Italian Dressing Mix?

While the dressing mix is key to that authentic Olive Garden flavor, you can try using a combination of Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and a pinch of sugar. It won’t be exactly the same, but it will still be delicious.

4. Can I make this salad vegan?

To make this salad vegan, omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan Parmesan substitute. Also, use vegan mayonnaise in the dressing or simply skip it altogether and add a bit more olive oil and vinegar.

Final Thoughts

Making your own Olive Garden Salad at home is easier than you might think, and the results are incredibly satisfying. Give this recipe a try and you’ll have a crisp, flavorful salad ready to enjoy whenever the craving strikes! Enjoy the process of creating something delicious and share it with your loved ones. It’s a fantastic way to bring the restaurant experience home!

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