Introduction
The first time I had the famous Olive Garden salad, I was with friends celebrating a birthday dinner. The moment the big bowl hit the table, filled with crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, crunchy croutons, and briny olives, I knew it was something special. What made it unforgettable was the tangy, creamy dressing that tied everything together perfectly. Inspired by that memory, Lina Vexley brings you this at-home version of the beloved Olive Garden salad. It’s fresh, flavorful, and comes together effortlessly, making it the perfect starter or side for any Italian-inspired meal—or simply a refreshing dish on its own.
Olive Garden Salad
Equipment
- Large Salad Bowl
- Knife
Ingredients
Salad Base
- 8 cups romaine lettuce chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 cup cucumber sliced
- 1/2 cup red onion thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup black olives
- 1/2 cup croutons garlic-flavored preferred
- 1/2 cup feta or parmesan cheese crumbled or shredded
Dressing
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/3 cup white vinegar
- 2 tbsp olive oil extra virgin
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp sugar
Instructions
- In a large salad bowl, combine lettuce, tomatoes, cucumber, onion, olives, croutons, and cheese.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, vinegar, olive oil, Italian seasoning, and sugar until smooth.
- Pour dressing over salad and toss gently to combine.
- Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
Nutrition
How to Make Recipe
To recreate Olive Garden’s famous salad at home, start with fresh ingredients. Wash and chop crisp romaine lettuce and place it in a large bowl. Add halved cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumbers, thinly sliced red onion, black olives, crunchy croutons, and a sprinkle of feta or parmesan cheese for a savory bite.
Next, prepare the dressing. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, white vinegar, olive oil, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of sugar. This combination creates a creamy yet tangy dressing that is signature to the Olive Garden salad. For the best flavor, chill the dressing in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
Just before serving, pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly. The key is to toss lightly so the lettuce stays crisp and the croutons maintain their crunch.
This salad pairs wonderfully with pasta dishes, grilled chicken, or even as a refreshing standalone meal. You can easily customize it by adding pepperoncini peppers for heat or switching the cheese to suit your preference. For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for part of the mayonnaise in the dressing.
With its balance of textures—crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, creamy cheese, and crunchy croutons—this salad delivers satisfaction with every bite. The tangy dressing ties everything together, making it a family favorite that never fails to impress.
Conclusion
Olive Garden salad is a classic that combines freshness, flavor, and comfort in one bowl. Lina Vexley’s version captures the essence of the restaurant favorite while being simple enough to prepare at home. The combination of crisp vegetables, briny olives, savory cheese, and creamy dressing makes it irresistible. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, it brings a taste of Italian-inspired comfort to your table. With its versatility and vibrant flavors, this salad is sure to become a staple in your home kitchen—just like it has in countless restaurants and family celebrations.