This Olive Garden Salad is fresh and crisp, filled with yummy ingredients like romaine lettuce, olives, and pepperoncini. It’s topped with their tasty Italian dressing—just perfect for any meal!
You can’t go wrong with a salad that feels like a party on your plate. I often make extra just so I can munch on it all weekend. Who doesn’t love a bit of salad fun? 😄
Making this salad is a breeze! I whip it up in no time and serve it alongside my favorite pasta. It’s a great way to add some greens to your dinner without any fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Romaine Lettuce: This leafy green provides a nice crunch. If you can’t find romaine, you can use iceberg lettuce or even mixed greens for a different texture.
Cherry Tomatoes: These yummy little tomatoes add sweetness. If they’re out of season, you might substitute with halved grape tomatoes or any other small tomatoes you prefer.
Red Onion: This adds a sharp taste. If red onions are too strong for you, try green onions or a mild white onion instead. Soaking thin slices in cold water for 10 minutes can also mellow their flavor.
Black Olives: They lend a briny flavor. You can swap them with green olives or skip them altogether if olives aren’t your thing.
Pepperoncini Peppers: These add a bit of heat and tang. If you prefer less spice, use banana peppers or skip them. You can also use pickled jalapeños for a different kick.
Croutons: They give a nice crunch. If you want them gluten-free, look for gluten-free croutons, or simply toast up some gluten-free bread instead.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan complements the salad beautifully. You can try pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast if you want a vegan option.
Italian Dressing: If you can’t find Olive Garden dressing, any good quality Italian dressing will do. Homemade dressing is also a fantastic option! Combine olive oil, vinegar, Italian herbs, and seasoning.
How Do I Make Sure My Salad is Fresh and Crisp?
To keep your salad fresh and crisp, proper preparation is key! Start by washing the romaine lettuce well and drying it. A salad spinner works wonders here, removing excess water that can make your salad soggy.
- Chop the lettuce just before you’re ready to serve. This cuts down on browning and wilting.
- Use fresh, well-ripened cherry tomatoes for the best flavor. Cut them highlighting their sweetness.
- Adding dressing right before serving prevents wilting. If making ahead, you can store dressing separately and toss just before you eat.
- Consider chilling your salad mix briefly before serving, avoiding mushiness.
How to Make Olive Garden Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 head of romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, sliced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup black olives, pitted and halved
- 1/2 cup pepperoncini peppers
- 1 cup croutons
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup Olive Garden Italian dressing (or similar Italian dressing)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare. It’s quick to chop and combine all the ingredients, making it a perfect side dish or light meal without spending too much time in the kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Base:
Start by washing and chopping the romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces. Place the chopped lettuce in a large salad bowl, ensuring it’s nice and fresh. Next, slice the cherry tomatoes and thinly slice the red onion, adding them to the bowl with the romaine.
2. Add the Good Stuff:
Now, it’s time to add some flavor! Toss in the halved black olives and the pepperoncini peppers to the salad bowl. These will give your salad a tasty kick. It’s looking colorful already!
3. Top It Off:
Sprinkle the croutons generously over the salad mixture. These little crunchies add a delightful texture. Then, add the grated Parmesan cheese on top. It’s okay to be generous with the cheese – who doesn’t love cheese?
4. Dress It Up:
Drizzle the Olive Garden Italian dressing evenly over the salad. Use just enough to coat everything without making it soggy. Now, gently toss the salad using two large spoons or salad tongs, making sure all the ingredients mix together beautifully.
5. Season and Serve:
Finally, sprinkle some salt and pepper to taste. Mix lightly again to incorporate the seasoning. You can serve the salad right away, or for enhanced flavor, let it chill in the refrigerator for a little while. Enjoy your fresh and tasty Olive Garden Salad!
Can I Use Different Lettuce for This Salad?
Absolutely! While romaine lettuce is traditional, you can substitute it with iceberg, spinach, or mixed greens for different textures and flavors. Just make sure to chop them finely for easier mixing with the other ingredients.
How to Make This Salad Vegetarian or Vegan?
To make this salad vegetarian, simply ensure that the dressing you use is free from animal products. For a vegan version, replace the Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese alternative. Just check the labels to be sure!
Can I Prep This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can chop and prepare all the vegetables and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a day in advance. However, it’s best to add the croutons, dressing, and cheese just before serving to ensure everything stays fresh and crunchy.
How to Store Leftover Salad?
If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. If possible, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to maintain the crispness of the veggies and croutons!
