The Olive Garden Salad has become synonymous with fresh, vibrant flavors and a delightful balance of textures. Whether you’ve had it at the restaurant or made it yourself at home, this salad is a crowd-pleaser. I remember my first time enjoying it at Olive Garden – the crisp greens, tangy dressing, and the perfect blend of toppings made every bite an experience. Inspired by this, I wanted to recreate the magic at home, and now, I share it with you. I’m Lina Vexley, and today I’ll guide you through creating this classic salad.
Olive Garden Salad Recipe
Olive Garden Salad
Ingredients
- 4 cups romaine lettuce chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1/4 cup red onion thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup black olives sliced
- 1/4 cup pepperoncini peppers sliced
- 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese for garnish
- 1/4 cup Olive Garden Italian Dressing store-bought or homemade
Instructions
- In a large salad bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, halved cherry tomatoes, red onion, black olives, and pepperoncini peppers.
- Drizzle the Olive Garden Italian Dressing over the salad ingredients, tossing gently to combine.
- Top the salad with shredded Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
- Serve immediately or chill for 15 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.
Notes
Nutrition
How to Make Olive Garden Salad
To start, you’ll need to prep your ingredients. Begin by chopping the romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces and placing it in a large salad bowl. Romaine lettuce is perfect for this salad due to its crisp texture, which provides a great base for the other ingredients. Add halved cherry tomatoes for a burst of sweetness and color, followed by thinly sliced red onions for a sharp contrast.
Next, throw in black olives and pepperoncini peppers for their unique flavors. The olives contribute a briny, savory element, while the pepperoncini adds a mild heat that balances the rest of the salad’s components. After adding these, drizzle your Olive Garden Italian dressing over the ingredients. Be sure to toss everything gently, so that the dressing coats all of the ingredients evenly, enhancing the flavors.
Finally, sprinkle a generous amount of shredded Parmesan cheese over the top of the salad. The cheese adds a rich, creamy finish that elevates the entire dish. You can serve the salad immediately, but if you have the time, letting it chill for 15 minutes helps the flavors meld together, making every bite even more delicious. This salad works as the perfect accompaniment to pasta, pizza, or any Italian meal. It’s light yet satisfying, and with its fresh, vibrant ingredients, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Conclusion
The Olive Garden Salad is a timeless favorite with its refreshing combination of crisp greens, flavorful vegetables, and tangy dressing. Whether you’re making it as a side for dinner or enjoying it on its own, it’s a dish that never disappoints. Its versatility, easy preparation, and balance of flavors make it a staple for any meal. Try it today and experience the freshness and joy it brings to your table!