Copycat Olive Garden Salad & Dressing

Step-by-step instructions

Now, let’s dive right into the preparation. Follow these simple steps to create your Copycat Olive Garden Salad:

1. In a large bowl, combine the iceberg lettuce, pepperoncini peppers, Roma tomatoes, black olives, red onion, and croutons. Toss gently to mix.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, white wine vinegar, water, mayonnaise, granulated sugar, minced garlic, lemon juice, Italian seasoning, kosher salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes until well combined.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat everything evenly.
4. Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and serve immediately for maximum freshness.

Best ways to enjoy it

To serve your Copycat Olive Garden Salad, consider pairing it with some homemade garlic bread or alongside a pasta dish for a classic Italian meal. For a delightful presentation, plate the salad in a large serving bowl and sprinkle extra Parmesan on top as a finishing touch. It also makes a fantastic standalone lunch option, especially with some added protein like grilled chicken or chickpeas.

Keeping leftovers fresh

If you find yourself with leftovers, don’t worry—this salad can be stored for a short while! To keep your salad fresh, store any uneaten portions in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s best eaten within 1-2 days to ensure the lettuce remains crisp and the flavors intact. Avoid mixing the dressing in until you’re ready to serve to prevent sogginess.

Helpful cooking tips

• To enhance the flavors, let the dressing sit for a few minutes after whisking. This allows the garlic and herbs to blend beautifully.
• If you prefer a thicker dressing, add a bit more mayonnaise or a small amount of Greek yogurt for creaminess.
• Freshly grated Parmesan is always better than pre-grated—don’t skimp on quality!

Creative twists

Feel free to customize this salad to fit your tastes. You can add a variety of ingredients, such as avocado slices for creaminess, or swap the Italian seasoning for a sprinkle of feta and some Mediterranean herbs. For a spicy kick, toss in some diced jalapeños or a drizzle of sriracha.

FAQs

How long does it take to prepare?

This salad can be ready in about 15-20 minutes, making it an ideal choice for a quick meal or side dish.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

While the salad can be prepped a few hours ahead, it’s best to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve for maximum freshness.

Is there a healthier version?

Absolutely! You can reduce the amount of dressing, use whole grain croutons, or skip the mayonnaise altogether for a lighter, yet still delicious, version.

Enjoy your homemade Copycat Olive Garden Salad & Dressing, and relish the flavors that bring a taste of Italy right to your dining table!