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–+ servings
Olive Garden Salad

Easy Olive Garden Salad with Homemade Dressing Magic

This Olive Garden Salad is a vibrant and fresh dish, perfect for lunch or as a side, featuring a homemade dressing that enhances every bite.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Dressing
  • 1/2 cup Olive Oil Use extra virgin for best flavor.
  • 1/4 cup Mayonnaise Substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
  • 1/4 cup White Vinegar Apple cider vinegar can be used as a substitute.
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice Use fresh juice instead of bottled for optimal flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon Granulated Sugar Honey can be used for a natural sweetener.
  • 2 tablespoons Italian Dressing Mix Use a homemade blend of dried herbs if unavailable.
  • 1 pinch Freshly Ground Black Pepper Freshly cracked is recommended for better flavor.
For the Salad
  • 8 cups Garden Salad Mix Substitute with any preferred mixed greens.
  • 2 sliced Roma Tomatoes Campari tomatoes can be used for richer flavor.
  • 1 cup Whole Pepperoncini Use sliced mild banana peppers if unavailable.
  • 1/2 cup Large Black Olives Kalamata olives can be a flavorful alternative.
  • 1/2 large Red Onion Sweet onions can be substituted for milder flavor.
  • 1-2 cups Croutons Make homemade croutons for best results.
  • 1/2 cup Grated Romano Cheese Parmesan cheese can be used instead.

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • Whisk
  • large serving bowl
  • salad tongs

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, mayonnaise, white vinegar, and lemon juice until well combined. Add sugar, Italian dressing mix, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly for about 2–3 minutes until creamy and smooth. Set aside.
  2. In a large serving bowl, combine garden salad mix, sliced Roma tomatoes, whole pepperoncini, and large black olives. Add thinly sliced red onion and toss gently for even distribution.
  3. Sprinkle homemade croutons over the salad mixture before serving to maintain crunchiness.
  4. Re-whisk the dressing and drizzle generously over the salad, using about half initially. Toss gently to coat the salad evenly.
  5. Sprinkle grated Romano cheese over the salad and toss for even distribution.
  6. Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh crunch and vibrant flavors.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 12gProtein: 5gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 20gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 550mgPotassium: 350mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 2500IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Consider pairing with your favorite Italian dishes or enjoy as a healthy, standalone meal. Keep dressing handy for guests to adjust to their taste preferences.

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