Go Back
Olive Garden Salad Recipe

Olive Garden Salad Recipe

This homemade Olive Garden Salad Recipe is a perfect copycat version that you can whip up in just 10 minutes. I’ll show you exactly how to recreate the full flavor of the original, including the famous Italian dressing. We’ll cover everything from the best ingredients to step-by-step prep, serving ideas, and expert tips to make it just like the restaurant—or even better!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 180
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • For the Salad:
  • 1 large head of Romaine lettuce chopped
  • 1/2 small red onion thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup black olives whole or sliced
  • 1 cup grape or cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1/2 cup pepperoncini sliced or whole
  • 1 cup croutons garlic or Italian-style
  • 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • For the Dressing Copycat Olive Garden Dressing:
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/3 cup white vinegar
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon sugar
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Method
 

  1. Make the dressing: In a bowl or jar, whisk together mayo, vinegar, water, olive oil, grated cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, sugar, salt, and pepper. Chill for 10–15 minutes if you have time.
  2. Prepare the vegetables: Chop the romaine lettuce, slice the onion thinly, and halve the cherry tomatoes.
  3. Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine lettuce, onions, tomatoes, black olives, and pepperoncini.
  4. Add the croutons and cheese: Sprinkle croutons and grated Parmesan over the top.
  5. Drizzle with dressing: Pour desired amount of dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Serve immediately!

Notes

  • Chill the dressing before serving to enhance the flavor.
  • Toss right before serving so the croutons stay crunchy.
  • Use a salad spinner to make sure your lettuce is extra dry—it helps the dressing stick better.
  • Thin-slice the onions for a milder bite.
  • Serve on chilled plates for a true restaurant-style experience.