Name: Copycat Olive Garden Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 cups iceberg lettuce (or mix of iceberg and romaine), chopped; 2 Roma tomatoes, sliced; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup pepperoncini peppers, sliced; 1/4 cup black olives, sliced; 1 cup croutons; 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; For the dressing:; 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil; 3 tablespoons white wine vinegar; 2 tablespoons water; 2 tablespoons mayonnaise; 1 teaspoon sugar; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

This Copycat Olive Garden Salad brings the beloved restaurant experience to my home with its crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, tangy pepperoncini, and savory black olives, all tossed in a zesty Italian dressing and topped with crunchy croutons and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. It’s the perfect starter or side dish for any Italian-inspired meal.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it captures the essence of Olive Garden’s iconic salad, allowing me to enjoy it anytime without leaving the house. It’s quick to prepare, customizable to my taste, and pairs wonderfully with a variety of main courses. The homemade dressing adds a fresh and flavorful touch that elevates the entire dish.

Ingredients

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

Iceberg lettuce or a mix of iceberg and romaine lettuce
Roma tomatoes, sliced
Red onion, thinly sliced
Pepperoncini peppers
Black olives
Croutons
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese

For the dressing:

Extra virgin olive oil
White wine vinegar
Water
Mayonnaise
Sugar
Italian seasoning
Salt
Black pepper
Garlic powder

Directions

In a large bowl, combine the lettuce, sliced tomatoes, red onion, pepperoncini peppers, and black olives.
In a separate bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, white wine vinegar, water, mayonnaise, sugar, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until well combined.
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
Top the salad with croutons and freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings. The preparation time is about 15 minutes, making it a quick and easy addition to any meal.

Variations

Protein Addition: I sometimes add grilled chicken, shrimp, or salami to make it a more substantial meal.
Cheese Options: While Parmesan is traditional, I’ve tried it with feta or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
Vegetable Mix: Adding cucumbers, bell peppers, or shredded carrots can enhance the salad’s texture and nutrition.
Dressing Twist: For a spicier kick, I add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing.

Storage/Reheating

This salad is best enjoyed fresh. However, if I have leftovers, I store the undressed salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. I keep the dressing separate and add it just before serving to maintain the salad’s crispness. Croutons should be stored separately to prevent them from becoming soggy.

FAQs

What type of lettuce is best for this salad?

I prefer using iceberg lettuce for its crisp texture, but a mix of iceberg and romaine adds a nice variety and holds up well to the dressing.

Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Yes, I often prepare the dressing in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a good shake or stir before using.

Are there alternatives to pepperoncini peppers?

If I’m out of pepperoncini, banana peppers make a suitable substitute, offering a similar tangy flavor.

How can I make this salad vegan?

To make it vegan, I use a plant-based mayonnaise and omit the Parmesan cheese or replace it with a vegan cheese alternative.

Can I use store-bought dressing?

Absolutely, when I’m short on time, I use a store-bought Italian dressing. However, I find that homemade dressing offers a fresher taste.

Conclusion

Creating this Copycat Olive Garden Salad at home is a delightful way to enjoy a restaurant favorite with the flexibility to customize it to my liking. It’s a refreshing and flavorful addition to any meal, and the homemade dressing truly elevates the dish. Whether serving it as a starter or a main course with added protein, this salad is always a crowd-pleaser in my household.