Olive Garden Salad Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This homemade Olive Garden Salad is easy to make, customizable, and bursting with fresh ingredients. It features a perfect balance of crunchy romaine, sweet cherry tomatoes, sliced olives, and pepperoncini, all tossed with a zesty Italian dressing. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner, a holiday gathering, or enjoying it solo, this salad will definitely enhance any meal. The best part? You can prepare it in minutes and enjoy restaurant-quality taste at home.

Ingredients

• 2 heads romaine lettuce, chopped

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced

• 1/2 cup black olives, sliced

• 1/4 cup pepperoncini peppers

• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1/2 cup Olive Garden Signature Italian dressing (or homemade dressing)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Start by washing and chopping the romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces. Place it in a large bowl.

2. Add the halved cherry tomatoes, sliced red onion, black olives, and pepperoncini peppers to the bowl with the lettuce.

3. Toss the ingredients together gently until evenly mixed.

4. Drizzle the Olive Garden Signature Italian dressing over the salad. Toss again to coat everything with the dressing.

5. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese and shredded mozzarella cheese on top.

6. Give the salad one last gentle toss, ensuring the cheeses are well distributed.

7. Serve immediately or chill until ready to serve.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4-6 servings and can be prepared in 10-15 minutes.

Variations

• Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even Italian sausage to make this salad a more filling main dish.

• Vegan Option: Skip the cheeses and use a dairy-free dressing for a vegan-friendly version.

• Custom Greens: Feel free to swap out the romaine for mixed greens or spinach for a variation in flavor and texture.

• Add-Ins: For a little extra crunch, throw in some croutons or walnuts.

Storage/Reheating

This salad is best served fresh but can be stored in the fridge for up to 1-2 days. If storing, keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to avoid soggy lettuce. The salad is not ideal for reheating, but it can be enjoyed cold as leftovers.

FAQs

How do I keep the salad fresh if I’m making it ahead of time?

To keep the salad fresh, store the ingredients and dressing separately. Assemble the salad when you’re ready to serve, then drizzle the dressing over just before tossing.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and store them in airtight containers in the fridge. Just wait to add the dressing until right before serving.

What is the best dressing to use for an Olive Garden salad?

Olive Garden’s Signature Italian dressing is a classic choice. If you prefer, you can make your own by mixing olive oil, vinegar, Italian seasoning, and garlic.

Can I add other vegetables to the salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add cucumbers, bell peppers, or even artichoke hearts for extra flavor and texture.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, the basic ingredients of the salad are gluten-free. However, if you’re adding croutons or using a store-bought dressing, be sure to check for gluten-containing ingredients.

How can I make this salad more flavorful?

To enhance the flavor, you can marinate the vegetables in a bit of the dressing for 15-30 minutes before assembling the salad.

Can I use a different type of lettuce?

While romaine is traditional, you can use mixed greens, arugula, or spinach for a different flavor profile.

What other cheeses can I use in this salad?

You can substitute the mozzarella with feta, goat cheese, or even shredded cheddar, depending on your preference.

How can I make a healthier version of this salad?

To make a lighter version, use less dressing or opt for a low-fat or vinaigrette-based dressing. Skip the cheese or use a small amount.

Can I make this salad for a large crowd?

Yes, this salad can easily be scaled up for a large group. Just increase the quantities of each ingredient accordingly and toss in a large bowl.

Conclusion

This homemade Olive Garden Salad is the perfect accompaniment to any Italian meal. Fresh, colorful, and full of flavor, it brings a taste of the restaurant to your home in just minutes. Whether you’re serving it as a side or enjoying it as a main course, this salad is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. Give it a try, and you’ll understand why it’s such a classic favorite.