Olive Garden Salad

If you’re looking for a fresh and delicious side dish that brings the taste of your favorite Italian restaurant right to your home, then you’re in for a treat with this Olive Garden Salad! This crisp and vibrant salad is not only easy to make but also perfect for any occasion—be it a busy weeknight dinner or a lively family gathering. It’s amazing how simple ingredients can come together to create something so flavorful, and I can’t wait to share this beloved recipe with you!

What makes this Olive Garden Salad truly special is the homemade zesty Italian dressing that perfectly complements the freshness of the vegetables. Trust me, once you try this version, you’ll never want to go back to store-bought dressings again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 25 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this salad in no time!
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the crunchy textures and zesty flavors.
• Make-ahead convenience: The dressing can be made in advance, saving you time when you’re busy.
• Versatile: This salad pairs wonderfully with countless dishes or stands alone as a light meal.
• Fresh ingredients: Packed full of colorful veggies, it’s both nutritious and satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Olive Garden Salad features wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. The combination creates a delightful crunch while the dressing ties everything together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Salad

• 8 cups chopped Lettuce
• ¼ cup red cabbage (shredded)
• ¼ cup Carrots (julienne)
• ¼ cup Red onion
• ½ cup black olives
• 2 roma tomatoes (sliced)
• 1/3 cup pepperoncinis
• 1 cup croutons
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

For the Dressing

• 3/4 cup extra virgin olive oil (smooth is best)
• 1 (.7 oz.) packet Zesty Italian Dressing Mix
• 1/3 cup white vinegar
• ¼ cup water
• 1 tablespoon grated Romano cheese (or sub Parmesan)
• 3 teaspoons sugar
• 1 ½ teaspoons mayo (not miracle whip)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• ½ teaspoon EACH: Italian seasoning, salt
• ¼ teaspoon EACH: pepper, garlic powder

Variations

One of the best things about this Olive Garden Salad is its flexibility! You can easily switch things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Add some protein: Toss in grilled chicken or chickpeas for a heartier meal.
• Change up the greens: Use spinach or arugula instead of traditional lettuce for a different flavor profile.
• Mix in fruits: Diced apples or pears add a sweet twist that balances the savory elements.
• Experiment with cheeses: Try feta or goat cheese for a creamier texture and richer taste.

How to Make Olive Garden Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

Start by combining all the dressing ingredients in either a mini food processor or a jar with a lid. Blend or shake well until everything is emulsified. Cover it and let it chill in the refrigerator while you prepare the salad. This step is essential because allowing the flavors to meld will enhance your dressing’s taste!

Step 2: Prep Your Vegetables

Next, get all those beautiful veggies ready! Chop your lettuce, shred your cabbage, julienne your carrots, and slice your tomatoes. Remember to use a paper towel to absorb any excess moisture from those tomatoes—they need to stay fresh and crisp! Set aside your dressing, croutons, and Parmesan cheese while mixing everything else.

Step 3: Combine Your Salad Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine all of the salad ingredients except for the croutons and cheese. Toss them gently together so they’re well mixed but still look beautiful. It’s important to fold them carefully; you want that lovely presentation!

Step 4: Dress It Up!

Now it’s time to drizzle on your homemade dressing! Add just enough dressing to coat your salad—trust me, you won’t need all of it. Toss gently again so every leaf gets that delicious flavor without getting soggy.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Finish off by sprinkling croutons and grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving! This Olive Garden Salad pairs perfectly with my Olive Garden Alfredo if you’re looking for an amazing dinner combo. Enjoy every bite of this delightful dish!

With these steps, you’ll have created an incredible Olive Garden Salad that everyone will rave about. Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Olive Garden Salad

Creating the perfect Olive Garden Salad at home is a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you’ll elevate your dish to restaurant-quality.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for the freshest greens and vegetables possible. Fresh ingredients not only enhance flavor but also contribute to the overall crunchiness of your salad.
• Chill Your Bowl: Before assembling your salad, chill your serving bowl in the refrigerator for a few minutes. This helps keep your salad fresh and cool for longer.
• Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add or substitute vegetables based on your preference. Bell peppers or cucumbers can add a nice crunch and extra color to your salad.
• Adjust Dressing to Taste: Start with a small amount of dressing and add more as needed. This way, you can ensure that every bite is perfectly dressed without overpowering the other flavors.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the dressing in advance and store it in the fridge. This allows flavors to meld beautifully and makes assembly quick when you’re ready to serve!

How to Serve Olive Garden Salad

Serving your Olive Garden Salad can be as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to present this vibrant dish beautifully at your table.

Garnishes

• Fresh Basil Leaves: A few torn basil leaves on top can add an aromatic touch that elevates the flavor profile of your salad.
• Lemon Wedges: Adding lemon wedges on the side not only looks pretty but also allows guests to squeeze fresh juice over their salad for an extra zing.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Breadsticks: These warm, soft breadsticks complement the salad perfectly. Their buttery flavor pairs wonderfully with the zesty dressing.
• Pasta Primavera: A colorful mix of sautéed veggies tossed with pasta offers a light yet hearty option that rounds out a meal nicely.
• Stuffed Bell Peppers: Filled with grains, beans, and spices, these are both nutritious and filling, making them an excellent accompaniment to a fresh salad.
• Vegetable Soup: A warm bowl of vegetable soup adds comfort and warmth to your meal while balancing the freshness of the salad.

With these serving suggestions, you’ll create a delightful dining experience that captures the essence of enjoying Olive Garden Salad right at home!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Olive Garden Salad is a fantastic option for meal prep! Not only does it stay fresh, but it’s also versatile, allowing you to customize it throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Keep the dressing separate to maintain the salad’s crispness.
• Consume within 2-3 days for the best quality.

Freezing

• Freezing this salad is not recommended due to the texture of the vegetables once thawed.
• Instead, prepare a fresh batch when you’re ready to enjoy!

Reheating

• This salad is best enjoyed cold; simply mix it up again before serving.
• If desired, you can slightly warm croutons in the oven before adding them back to the salad.

FAQs

If you have questions about making this Olive Garden Salad, you’re not alone!

Can I make Olive Garden Salad without croutons?

Absolutely! You can skip croutons if you’re looking for a gluten-free option or prefer a lighter salad.

How do I make Olive Garden Salad in advance?

To make Olive Garden Salad ahead of time, prepare all ingredients and store them separately. Combine everything with the dressing just before serving for maximum freshness.

What can I substitute for black olives in Olive Garden Salad?

Feel free to use green olives or omit them altogether if olives aren’t your favorite.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Olive Garden Salad! It’s not just a side dish; it’s a vibrant addition to any meal that brings flavors and freshness to your table. I’m excited for you to try this recipe and share it with your loved ones. Happy cooking!