Copycat Olive Garden Salad

A Fresh, Crisp, and Flavorful Salad Just Like the Restaurant Version

If you’ve ever been to Olive Garden, you know their signature salad is just as famous as their breadsticks! Crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, tangy pepperoncini, and crunchy croutons all tossed in that zesty, creamy Italian dressing—it’s the perfect balance of fresh and flavorful. Now, you can recreate that same restaurant-quality salad at home with this easy copycat recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

I have to admit—every time I go to Olive Garden, I look forward to the endless salad just as much as the pasta. There’s something about the combination of crunchy veggies, savory dressing, and those irresistible croutons that makes it so addictive.

The great news? It’s incredibly simple to make at home! Not only is it fresher and customizable, but you can make a big batch for a fraction of the cost. Plus, the homemade dressing is spot on—it’s tangy, garlicky, and just the right amount of creamy. Trust me, once you make this from scratch, you won’t want the bottled version again!

Ingredient Notes

• Romaine Lettuce – The base of the salad, providing a crisp and fresh bite.
• Red Onion – Adds a bit of sharpness and crunch.
• Tomatoes – Cherry or grape tomatoes work best for sweetness and juiciness.
• Black Olives – A signature ingredient that brings a briny depth of flavor.
• Pepperoncini Peppers – Slightly tangy and mildly spicy, they add a delicious zip.
• Parmesan Cheese – Freshly grated Parmesan gives the salad a salty, nutty finish.
• Croutons – For that classic crunch (bonus points if you make them homemade!).

Substitutions and Variations

• Swap romaine for iceberg or a mix of greens for a different texture.
• Use Kalamata olives instead of black olives for a richer, brinier flavor.
• Try feta instead of Parmesan for a Mediterranean twist.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Dressing – In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, white vinegar, lemon juice, garlic, Italian seasoning, Parmesan, and a touch of sugar. Slowly add olive oil while whisking until well combined.
2. Prep the Salad – Wash and chop the romaine lettuce. Slice the onions and tomatoes.
3. Assemble – In a large bowl, toss the lettuce, onions, tomatoes, olives, and pepperoncini.
4. Dress the Salad – Drizzle the homemade dressing over the salad and toss gently.
5. Top and Serve – Sprinkle with Parmesan, add croutons, and serve immediately.

Expert Tips for the Best Results

• Chill the Salad – Keep the veggies cold for the crispest texture.
• Toss Right Before Serving – This keeps everything fresh and prevents sogginess.
• Use Freshly Grated Parmesan – It melts beautifully into the dressing for extra richness.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with homemade breadsticks for the full Olive Garden experience.
• Serve alongside pasta dishes like fettuccine alfredo or spaghetti and meatballs.
• Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal.

Storage Tips

• Dressing: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
• Salad Components: Keep ingredients separate until ready to serve.
• Leftovers: If already dressed, eat within a few hours for the best texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the dressing ahead of time? Yes! It actually tastes better after sitting for a few hours, allowing the flavors to meld.

What’s the best way to make homemade croutons? Cube day-old bread, toss with olive oil, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning, then bake at 375°F for 10-15 minutes until golden and crispy.

Can I use store-bought dressing? Of course! But the homemade version is much fresher and closer to the restaurant’s taste.

Make This Iconic Salad at Home!

This Copycat Olive Garden Salad is light, refreshing, and full of flavor. It’s the perfect side dish or light meal that’s easy to whip up any day of the week. If you try this recipe, let me know how it turned out in the comments!

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