Olive Garden Salad and Dressing Copycat Recipe
User Reviews
5
Olive Garden Salad and Dressing Copycat Recipe
Description
The recipe recreates the well-known Olive Garden salad by combining chopped lettuce with various fresh vegetables including Roma tomatoes, shredded carrots, red onion, and olives. Parmesan cheese and garlic-flavored croutons add texture and richness, while pepperoncini introduces a mild tangy heat. The dressing blends zesty Italian seasoning mix with olive oil, white vinegar, Dijon mustard, mayonnaise, and a touch of sugar and garlic powder for balance and depth. This mixture is shaken until emulsified, producing a creamy and zesty dressing that complements the crisp salad ingredients.
The salad benefits from the combination of fresh textures – crunchy vegetables and croutons with smooth cheese – and the well-balanced, tangy dressing. It is best tossed just before serving to maintain crispness. The dressing can be prepared ahead and stored in the refrigerator for several weeks, making it convenient for multiple uses.
This dish works well as a starter, a side for Italian entrees, or a refreshing light meal on its own. Lettuce choice can vary, although romaine hearts are preferred for structure and flavor. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or extra Parmesan to taste.
Ingredients
- 6 cups lettuce chopped
- 2 Roma tomato sliced
- ½ red onion thinly sliced
- ¼ cup carrot shredded
- ½ cup black olives whole
- ⅓ cup Parmesan Cheese more to taste, shaved or freshly grated
- 1 cup crouton garlic flavored
- Pepperoncini
Olive Garden Salad Dressing
- 1.7 ounce Zesty Italian Dressing Mix
- ¾ cup extra virgin olive oil
- ⅓ cup white vinegar
- ¼ cup water
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
- ½ teaspoon granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon herbes de provence optional
- ½ teaspoon salt or to taste
- black pepper to taste, cracked
Instructions
- In a large bowl toss together lettuce, tomatoes, carrots, onions, and olives.
- Top with parmesan, croutons, and pepperocinis.
- Combine all dressing ingredients in a jar, shake vigorously.
- Toss with dressing just before serving. Enjoy!
Notes
- Use romaine hearts for the best texture, though other leafy lettuces can work.
- The dressing keeps well refrigerated for a few weeks in a sealed jar.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 6servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 78 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 78kcal | 4% |
| Carbohydrates | 8g | 3% |
| Protein | 4g | 8% |
| Fat | 4g | 6% |
| Saturated Fat | 1g | 5% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1g | 6% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 2g | 10% |
| Cholesterol | 5mg | 2% |
| Sodium | 303mg | 13% |
| Potassium | 182mg | 4% |
| Fiber | 2g | 8% |
| Sugar | 2g | 4% |
| Vitamin A | 626IU | 13% |
| Vitamin C | 6mg | 7% |
| Calcium | 88mg | 9% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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