Olive Garden Salad Recipe

Recreate the iconic Olive Garden Salad at home with this easy recipe! Featuring fresh ingredients like lettuce, Roma tomatoes, and pepperoncinis, topped with homemade Zesty Italian Dressing. Perfect for pairing with pasta, chicken, or as a standalone dish. Learn tips, substitutions, and FAQs for the best results.

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 8 cups chopped lettuce
• ¼ cup shredded red cabbage
• ¼ cup julienned carrots
• ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion
• ½ cup black olives
• 2 Roma tomatoes, sliced
• ⅓ cup pepperoncinis
• 1 cup croutons
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

For the Dressing:

• ¾ cup extra virgin olive oil (choose smooth over robust if available)
• 1 (.7 oz) packet Zesty Italian Dressing Mix
• ⅓ cup white vinegar
• ¼ cup water
• 1 tablespoon grated Romano cheese (substitute Parmesan if needed)
• 3 teaspoons sugar
• 1½ teaspoons mayonnaise (not Miracle Whip)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• ½ teaspoon each: Italian seasoning, salt
• ¼ teaspoon each: pepper, garlic powder

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dressing:

• Combine all dressing ingredients in a mini food processor or a jar with a tight-fitting lid.
• Blend or shake well until emulsified. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.

1. Assemble the Salad:

• Prepare the salad ingredients. Pat the sliced tomatoes dry with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture and keep the salad crisp.
• In a large bowl, combine the lettuce, red cabbage, carrots, red onion, black olives, Roma tomatoes, and pepperoncinis.

1. Serve:

• Drizzle the salad with your desired amount of dressing and toss to coat evenly. You won’t need all of the dressing.
• Top with croutons and Parmesan cheese just before serving.

This salad pairs wonderfully with creamy dishes like Olive Garden Alfredo!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Restaurant-Quality at Home: Recreate the famous Olive Garden salad with ease.
• Customizable Dressing: Adjust sweetness, acidity, or spices to suit your preferences.
• Quick and Easy: With minimal prep, this salad is ready in no time.
• Crowd-Pleaser: A fresh and vibrant addition to any meal.

Tips

• Chill the Dressing: Letting the dressing sit in the fridge enhances its flavor.
• Dry Ingredients Well: Remove moisture from tomatoes and lettuce to keep the salad crisp.
• Serve Fresh: Toss the salad with dressing just before serving to prevent sogginess.
• Use Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan delivers the best flavor.

Variations and Substitutions

• Cheese: Swap Parmesan for Asiago or Pecorino Romano for a different flavor.
• Vegetables: Add cucumbers, bell peppers, or artichoke hearts for more variety.
• Dressing Mix: If unavailable, make your own with a blend of dried herbs and spices.
• Croutons: Use seasoned croutons or make your own for a personal touch.

FAQs

Q: Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
A: Yes, the dressing can be prepared up to a week in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge and shake well before using.

Q: Can I make this salad vegan?
A: Substitute the Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast and use a vegan mayo in the dressing.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store undressed salad in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate and add just before serving.

Serving and Suggestions

• Pair this salad with pasta dishes like fettuccine Alfredo or spaghetti with marinara.
• Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a heartier meal.
• Serve as a refreshing starter or side for your favorite Italian-inspired dinner.