The Olive Garden Salad is a beloved classic that graces the menu of this popular Italian-American restaurant chain. Known for its fresh ingredients and distinctive Italian dressing, this salad has become a favorite for its blend of textures and flavors. It holds a special place in many hearts due to its refreshing taste and cultural significance as a staple of family dining experiences.
Ingredients
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1 bag of mixed salad greens (about 10 ounces)
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4 Roma tomatoes, quartered
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1 small red onion, thinly sliced
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1/2 cup pitted black olives, sliced
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1/4 cup pepperoncini peppers
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1/2 cup croutons
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1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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For the dressing:
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1/2 cup mayonnaise
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1/3 cup white vinegar
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1 teaspoon olive oil
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2 tablespoons grated Romano cheese
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1 clove garlic, minced
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1 teaspoon sugar
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1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Substitutions: Use dairy-free cheese for a vegan option, or gluten-free croutons for those avoiding gluten.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
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Prepare the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the salad greens, tomatoes, onions, olives, pepperoncini, and croutons.
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Make the Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, vinegar, olive oil, Romano cheese, garlic, sugar, and Italian seasoning until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
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Dress the Salad: Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss well to coat evenly. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top.
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Chill and Serve: Allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.
Tip: Avoid over-dressing the salad to keep the greens crisp.
Pro Tips and Cooking Techniques
For the best flavor, make the dressing a day ahead. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Use a salad spinner to ensure the greens are dry so the dressing adheres well without diluting.
Variations and Customizations
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Vegetarian Version: Skip the Parmesan or use a vegetarian alternative.
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Low-Carb Version: Eliminate croutons and increase the amount of cheese.
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Fusion Twist: Add diced avocado or swap out Italian seasoning for another spice blend to give it a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this salad as a refreshing start to any meal or alongside classic Italian dishes like lasagna or spaghetti. Pair it with a light white wine such as Pinot Grigio or a sparkling mineral water.
Nutritional Information
Approximately 150 calories per serving, with 8 grams of fat, 10 grams of carbohydrates, 2 grams of protein, and significant amounts of Vitamin A and C.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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Can I make the dressing in advance? Yes, preparing the dressing ahead of time enhances the flavor.
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How long can I store the leftover salad? It’s best eaten fresh, but you can store it in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Closing Thoughts
Making your own Olive Garden Salad at home is not only simple but allows you to customize ingredients to suit your taste and dietary needs. Don’t hesitate to experiment and make the recipe your own. Share your creations or questions in the comments below – we love hearing from you!
