I’ve always admired Olive Garden’s salad for its simplicity and balance. Recreating it at home took some trial and error, but I finally nailed the perfect mix of crisp greens, briny olives, and tangy pepperoncini. The dressing, with its subtle garlic and herb notes, ties it all together. If you’re curious how to bring that restaurant magic to your kitchen, there’s a method worth exploring.
Recipe
Craving that iconic Olive Garden salad but don’t want to leave your kitchen? This homemade version nails it—down to the crisp veggies, tangy dressing, and those crave-worthy crunchy croutons.
Trust me, once you try this, you’ll skip the drive and make it at home every time.
What makes it so good? Fresh, vibrant ingredients paired with a zesty, herb-infused dressing that’s seriously addicting.
I’ve tweaked this recipe over countless dinners, and it’s become a staple at my table—whether it’s a weeknight meal or a dinner party showstopper.
Imagine this: chilled, crunchy lettuce, juicy tomatoes, savory olives, and pepperoncini all tossed in a creamy, garlicky dressing that’s pure magic.
Easy to whip up, bursting with flavor, and guaranteed to impress—this salad is your new go-to. Let’s make it happen!
Ingredients
Craving that signature Olive Garden salad? The secret lies in fresh, crisp ingredients combined with a tangy, herbaceous dressing. Here’s how to nail it at home—complete with pro tips and easy swaps for flexibility.
Salad Base:
- Iceberg lettuce: The crisp foundation—don’t skip it.
- Romaine lettuce: Adds a slight bitterness for balance.
- Red onion: Thinly sliced for a sharp kick.
- Black olives: Briny and essential to the flavor profile.
- Pepperoncini: Adds a tangy, spicy bite.
- Roma tomatoes: Fresh and juicy—no substitutions here!
- Croutons: Homemade or store-bought, but go for garlicky ones.
Olive Garden Dressing:
- Extra virgin olive oil: The base for that silky texture.
- White wine vinegar: Adds the signature tang.
- Garlic powder: For a subtle savory note.
- Dried oregano: A must-have herb for authenticity.
- Dried parsley: Enhances freshness.
- Sugar: Balances the acidity—don’t skip it.
- Salt and pepper: Adjust to taste for perfect seasoning.
Optional Extras:
- Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated for a nutty, salty finish.
- Shredded mozzarella: Adds creaminess if you’re feeling indulgent.
Pro tip: For the best flavor, let the salad chill for 10 minutes after tossing to let the dressing soak in.
Skip bottled dressings—homemade is key to that authentic Olive Garden taste!
How to Make the Best Authentic Olive Garden Salad
– Finish with cheese and croutons – Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan and homemade garlic croutons on top just before serving.
*Pro tip:* For extra authenticity, warm the croutons slightly.
– Serve immediately – Olive Garden’s salad is best enjoyed fresh.
If prepping ahead, store dressing and toppings separately and combine at the last minute.
Nutrition
This homemade Olive Garden salad is a fresh and healthy option, packed with vegetables and a light dressing. Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 kcal |
| Total Fat | 10 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2 g |
| Cholesterol | 5 mg |
| Sodium | 200 mg |
| Total Carbs | 12 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugars | 5 g |
| Protein | 4 g |
Chef Tips
With a solid understanding of the nutritional benefits, I’ll share some tips to elevate your Olive Garden salad.
Use fresh, crisp romaine and shred it thinly for better texture. Chill your bowls beforehand to keep the salad cold.
Toss the ingredients gently to avoid bruising the greens. Add croutons and dressing just before serving to maintain crunch.
Finally, taste and adjust seasoning to perfection.
