Copycat Olive Garden Salad

Introduction:

Indulge in the iconic flavors of Olive Garden from the comfort of your home with this Copycat Olive Garden Salad recipe. This beloved salad, known for its crisp greens, tangy dressing, and an array of colorful toppings, is a delightful start to any meal. Recreate the dining-out experience with this homemade version that captures the essence of Olive Garden’s signature salad. Let’s dive into the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and valuable tips to create your very own Copycat Olive Garden Salad that will bring joy to your table.

Ingredients:

For the Salad:

• 1 large head of iceberg lettuce, chopped
• 1 cup baby spinach leaves
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup sliced black olives
• 1/2 cup sliced pepperoncini peppers
• 1/2 cup croutons
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

For the Dressing:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup white vinegar
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons water
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Assembling the Salad

1. In a large salad bowl, combine the chopped iceberg lettuce and baby spinach leaves.
2. Add the halved cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, sliced black olives, and sliced pepperoncini peppers.

Step 2: Making the Dressing

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, white vinegar, extra-virgin olive oil, water, granulated sugar, dried Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until the dressing is smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Dressing the Salad

1. Pour a generous amount of the prepared dressing over the salad mixture.
2. Use salad tongs or two large spoons to gently toss the salad, ensuring all the ingredients are coated with the dressing.

Step 4: Adding Toppings

1. Sprinkle croutons evenly over the dressed salad for a satisfying crunch.
2. Finish by generously grating Parmesan cheese over the top.

Step 5: Serving the Copycat Olive Garden Salad

1. Plate the salad into individual serving bowls or plates.
2. Serve the salad as a refreshing appetizer or a side dish alongside your favorite Italian-inspired dishes.

Tips for Perfect Copycat Olive Garden Salad:

1. Feel free to customize the salad by adding ingredients like sliced cucumbers, shredded carrots, or roasted red peppers.
2. For a healthier option, you can use a mix of romaine lettuce and baby spinach instead of iceberg lettuce.
3. Adjust the dressing’s sweetness and tanginess by varying the amount of sugar and vinegar to suit your taste.
4. Prepare the dressing ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
5. The dressing is versatile and can be used for other salads or as a dip for breadsticks.

Conclusion:

Enjoy the taste of Olive Garden right in your own home with this Copycat Olive Garden Salad. With its fresh greens, vibrant toppings, and tangy dressing, this salad brings the essence of Italian flavors to your table. Whether enjoyed as a starter or a side dish, this salad is a delightful way to savor the familiar tastes you love from Olive Garden. Gather your ingredients, toss up the goodness, and relish the satisfaction of creating a restaurant-worthy salad at home.