I enjoy the tangy, slightly creamy dressing that ties everything together.
I also appreciate how easy it is to recreate a restaurant-style salad at home.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
6 cups iceberg lettuce, chopped 1 cup whole pitted black olives, drained 1 cup red onion, thinly sliced 4 medium Roma tomatoes, sliced 1 cup seasoned croutons 6 whole pepperoncini peppers ¼ cup parmesan cheese, freshly grated ⅔ cup extra virgin olive oil ⅓ cup white wine vinegar 3 tablespoons water 2 tablespoons mayonnaise 1 tablespoon granulated sugar 2 teaspoons fresh minced garlic 2 teaspoons lemon juice 1½ teaspoons Italian seasoning ½ teaspoon kosher salt ½ teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
Directions
I start by layering half of the lettuce in a large serving bowl.
I add half of the olives, red onion, tomatoes, and croutons over the lettuce.
I repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients.
I place the pepperoncini peppers on top and sprinkle the grated parmesan over everything.
In a separate bowl or jar, I combine the olive oil, white wine vinegar, water, mayonnaise, sugar, garlic, lemon juice, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
I whisk or shake the dressing until it is fully blended.
I pour the dressing over the salad just before serving.
I toss lightly and serve immediately.
Servings and timing
Servings: 8 Prep time: 20 minutes Total time: 20 minutes
Variations
I like adding grilled chicken for extra protein.
I sometimes include cucumber slices for more crunch.
I can swap iceberg lettuce with romaine for a slightly different texture.
For a lighter version, I reduce the oil in the dressing.
storage/reheating
I store the salad and dressing separately in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
I only dress the portion I plan to eat to keep the salad fresh.
I do not reheat this recipe since it is served cold.
FAQs
Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
Yes, I prepare the dressing in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
What can I use instead of mayonnaise?
I can use Greek yogurt or leave it out for a lighter dressing.
How do I keep the salad from getting soggy?
I add the dressing right before serving.
Can I use bottled dressing?
Yes, but I prefer homemade for the best flavor.
What protein can I add?
I like adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas.
Conclusion
Olive Garden Salad is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings restaurant-style freshness to the table. I like making it when I want something crisp, tangy, and easy to prepare for any meal.
Fresh Olive Garden Salad Recipe with crisp lettuce, olives, tomatoes, pepperoncini, and a tangy homemade Italian dressing. A classic restaurant-style salad at home.
Author:Emma
Prep Time:20 minutes
Cook Time:0 minutes
Total Time:20 minutes
Yield:8 servings
Category:Salad, Side Dish
Method:No-Cook, Mixing
Cuisine:Italian-American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
For the Salad: 6 cups iceberg lettuce, chopped
1 cup whole pitted black olives, drained
1 cup red onion, thinly sliced
4 medium Roma tomatoes, sliced
1 cup seasoned croutons
6 whole pepperoncini peppers
¼ cup fresh grated Parmesan cheese
For the Dressing: ⅔ cup extra virgin olive oil
⅓ cup white wine vinegar
3 tablespoons water
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
2 teaspoons fresh minced garlic
2 teaspoons lemon juice
1½ teaspoons Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
Instructions
In a large serving bowl, layer half of the lettuce, olives, red onion, tomatoes, and croutons.
Repeat with the remaining lettuce, olives, onion, tomatoes, and croutons.
Arrange the pepperoncini peppers on top of the salad.
Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
In a small bowl or jar, combine olive oil, white wine vinegar, water, mayonnaise, sugar, garlic, lemon juice, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Whisk or shake until fully emulsified.
Pour the dressing over the salad just before serving and toss lightly to combine.
Serve immediately for the freshest texture.
Notes
Add dressing right before serving to keep the lettuce crisp.
You can chill the dressing beforehand for enhanced flavor.
Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best taste.
Optional: Add grilled chicken to make it a complete meal.
