Olive Garden Salad Copycat Recipe: Easy Steps to Create the Perfect Salad at Home

Craving that classic Olive Garden salad but want to enjoy it at home? I totally get it! There’s something special about the fresh greens, crunchy croutons, and that irresistible dressing that makes it a favorite for so many.

With this copycat recipe, you can recreate the magic in your own kitchen. I loved how easy it was to bring all those vibrant flavors together without any fancy ingredients. Whether you’re planning a family meal or just treating yourself, this salad is sure to impress.

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

• 6 cups mixed salad greens
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup red onions, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
• 1 cup Italian-style croutons
• 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese

Dressing Ingredients

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons white vinegar
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 tablespoon dried parsley
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup olive oil

Optional Toppings

• Grilled chicken strips
• Pepperoncini peppers
• Avocado slices
• Extra croutons

Equipment

• Large Mixing Bowl: Perfect for tossing all the fresh ingredients together.
• Salad Spinner: Essential for drying the greens to keep them crisp.
• Sharp Knife and Cutting Board: Ideal for chopping vegetables and Parmesan cheese.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensure precise measurements for the dressing.
• Whisk: Helps blend the dressing ingredients smoothly.
• Serving Bowl: Beautifully present your homemade salad.
• Small Mixing Bowl: Convenient for preparing the dressing separately.

Directions

I love recreating the Olive Garden salad at home because it’s easy and enjoyable. Follow my steps to make a fresh, delicious salad just like the one you love at the restaurant.

Prep

1. Wash and Dry Greens: I rinse 6 cups of mixed greens thoroughly under cold water. Then, I use a salad spinner to dry them completely, ensuring a crisp base for the salad.
2. Slice Vegetables: I halve 1 cup of cherry tomatoes and thinly slice ½ a red onion and ½ cup of black olives using a sharp knife and cutting board.
3. Prepare Croutons: I measure out 1 cup of crunchy croutons. If you prefer homemade, you can toast bread cubes in the oven at 375°F until golden brown.
4. Grate Parmesan: I grate ½ cup of Parmesan cheese fresh for a rich, savory topping.
5. Mix the Dressing: In a small mixing bowl, I combine ½ cup of mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of white vinegar, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and a pinch of black pepper. I whisk until smooth and creamy.
6. Assemble the Salad: I place the dried mixed greens in a large mixing bowl. I add the sliced cherry tomatoes, red onions, and black olives. Then, I drizzle the creamy dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
7. Add Toppings: Finally, I sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese and add the crunchy croutons on top. For an extra kick, you can include pepperoncini peppers or avocado slices as optional toppings.
8. Serve: I transfer the salad to a serving bowl and enjoy it fresh, either as a side dish or a hearty main course with added grilled chicken.

Make Dressing

Creating the perfect dressing is essential to achieving that authentic Olive Garden flavor. Here’s how I masterfully craft the creamy and tangy dressing:

1. Combine the Base Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and white wine vinegar until smooth. This forms the creamy foundation of the dressing.

1. Incorporate Sweetness and Richness

Add the sugar and vegetable oil to the mixture. Stir continuously to ensure the sugar dissolves completely and the oil integrates smoothly.

1. Add Herbal Flavors

Sprinkle in the dried parsley, oregano, garlic powder, and onion powder. These herbs and spices infuse the dressing with depth and aroma.

1. Season to Taste

Season the dressing with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Start with a small amount, taste, and adjust as needed to balance the flavors.

1. Blend Until Creamy

Whisk all ingredients vigorously until the dressing reaches a creamy and well-blended consistency. Ensure there are no lumps and the herbs are evenly distributed.

1. Chill to Enhance Flavors

Refrigerate the dressing for at least 30 minutes before serving. Chilling allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a richer and more cohesive taste.

Assemble Salad

With all your ingredients prepped and your dressing perfectly blended, it’s time to bring everything together for that authentic Olive Garden experience.

1. Combine the Fresh Greens and Vegetables

I start by placing the crisp mixed greens into a large mixing bowl. Next, I add the vibrant cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onions, and briny black olives. The variety of colors and textures creates a visually appealing and flavorful base.

1. Add the Crunchy Croutons

To achieve that signature crunch, I sprinkle a generous handful of homemade croutons over the greens and vegetables. These golden bites add both texture and a delightful toasty flavor to the salad.

1. Drizzle with Creamy Dressing

Using a measuring cup, I evenly drizzle the creamy dressing over the assembled ingredients. The rich, tangy dressing ensures every bite is flavorful and well-coated without overpowering the fresh vegetables.

1. Toss to Combine

Gently tossing the salad with salad tongs, I make sure the dressing is thoroughly distributed, coating each leaf and vegetable piece. This step ensures a harmonious blend of flavors and textures in every serving.

1. Finish with Parmesan Cheese

For that authentic Olive Garden touch, I grate a generous amount of fresh Parmesan cheese over the top of the salad. The nutty, savory notes of the cheese enhance the overall flavor profile, making each bite irresistible.

1. Optional Enhancements

If you’re looking to make the salad more substantial, I love adding optional toppings like grilled chicken slices for protein, tangy pepperoncini peppers for an extra kick, or creamy avocado slices for added richness. These enhancements take the salad from a side dish to a satisfying main course.

1. Serve Immediately

Finally, I transfer the assembled salad to a beautiful serving bowl, ready to be enjoyed. Serving it fresh ensures that the greens remain crisp and the flavors stay vibrant, just like the original Olive Garden salad.

Make-Ahead Instructions

As a chef passionate about cooking, grilling, and baking, I know the importance of preparing components in advance without sacrificing freshness or flavor. Here’s how you can make parts of the Olive Garden Salad Copycat Recipe ahead of time:

Prepare the Dressing Early

Making the dressing ahead allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Combine all dressing ingredients in a jar, shake well, and store it in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to one week.

Bake Homemade Croutons in Advance

For crunchy croutons, bake them until golden brown. Allow them to cool completely before storing in an airtight container. They remain crispy for up to three days.

Chop Vegetables Ahead of Time

Wash and chop all vegetables, including mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, red onions, and black olives. Store them in separate airtight containers or one large container lined with paper towels to absorb excess moisture. Refrigerate for up to three days to keep them fresh.

Grate Parmesan Cheese in Advance

Grate the Parmesan cheese and store it in a small container or resealable bag. Keeping it separate until assembly ensures it stays fresh and maintains its texture. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days.

Optional: Grill Chicken Ahead

If adding grilled chicken, cook and slice it beforehand. Let it cool and then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays tender and juicy for up to three days.

Storage Summary

Assemble When Ready

When it’s time to serve, simply combine the prepped ingredients. Toss the mixed greens with the chopped vegetables, add croutons and Parmesan, drizzle with the prepared dressing, and top with grilled chicken if desired. This streamlined process ensures your salad is fresh, vibrant, and ready to impress with minimal effort.

Serving Suggestions

As a chef passionate about creating memorable dining experiences, I love pairing our Olive Garden Salad Copycat with dishes that complement its fresh flavors. Here are some of my favorite serving suggestions to elevate your meal:

Pairing with Main Courses

1. Grilled Chicken Breast

• Preparation: Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. Grill over medium heat for 6-7 minutes per side until fully cooked.
• Serving: Place the sliced chicken on top of the salad for a hearty and satisfying combination.

1. Classic Spaghetti Marinara

• Preparation: Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Prepare a rich marinara sauce with tomatoes, garlic, and basil.
• Serving: Serve a portion of spaghetti alongside the salad for a balanced Italian-inspired meal.

Adding Extra Crunch

1. Homemade Garlic Bread

• Preparation: Spread a mixture of butter, minced garlic, and parsley on baguette slices. Bake at 375°F for 10 minutes until golden.
• Serving: Arrange the garlic bread on the side to add a delicious crunch to each bite of salad.

1. Parmesan Crusted Shrimp

• Preparation: Coat shrimp with a mixture of grated Parmesan and breadcrumbs. Pan-fry until crispy and golden.
• Serving: Scatter the crispy shrimp over the salad for an extra layer of texture and flavor.

Enhancing Flavors

1. Freshly Baked Focaccia

• Preparation: Bake focaccia topped with rosemary and sea salt until fluffy and aromatic.
• Serving: Serve warm focaccia alongside the salad to enhance the Mediterranean vibe.

1. Bruschetta Toppings

• Preparation: Combine diced tomatoes, basil, garlic, and olive oil. Spoon onto toasted baguette slices.
• Serving: Add bruschetta on the side to introduce vibrant, fresh flavors that complement the salad.

Beverage Pairings

1. Sparkling White Wine

• Serving: Pour a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to refresh the palate and balance the salad’s richness.

1. Homemade Iced Tea

• Preparation: Brew your favorite tea, sweeten to taste, and add a slice of lemon.
• Serving: Serve over ice for a cool and invigorating drink that pairs perfectly with the crisp salad.

Presentation Tips

1. Colorful Plating

• Technique: Use a large, white serving bowl to make the vibrant greens and toppings stand out. Garnish with a sprinkle of Parmesan and a few whole pepperoncini peppers for a pop of color.

1. Individual Portions

• Technique: For a more elegant presentation, toss the salad and serve it in individual bowls or plates. Top each with a drizzle of dressing and a final sprinkle of cheese.

By incorporating these serving suggestions, you can transform your Olive Garden Salad Copycat into a centerpiece of a delightful meal. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy family dinner, these ideas will help you create a delicious and visually appealing spread.

Conclusion

Creating my favorite Olive Garden salad at home has never been easier. The fresh ingredients and homemade dressing make it a standout dish that everyone will love. I enjoy how simple it is to prepare, whether it’s for a quick meal or a special gathering.

Plus adding your own twists like grilled chicken or avocado takes it to the next level. It’s satisfying to know I can replicate such a delicious salad anytime. Give it a try and bring a taste of Olive Garden right to your kitchen. You won’t be disappointed!