Craving that irresistible Olive Garden salad but don't want to brave the crowds or the price tag? You're in luck! This copycat recipe delivers the same fresh, vibrant flavors of the restaurant favorite, right in your own kitchen. We'll unlock the secrets to that signature creamy Italian dressing and perfectly balanced mix of crisp greens, juicy tomatoes, and savory salami. Forget paying a premium for a simple salad – this recipe is budget-friendly and surprisingly easy to master. Get ready to impress your family and friends with a restaurant-quality salad they'll be raving about.
This incredibly simple recipe perfectly replicates the beloved Olive Garden salad experience. From the perfectly balanced dressing to the crisp, fresh vegetables and the satisfying crunch of the salami, we’ll guide you through every step of the process, ensuring a delicious and authentic result. Ready to recreate this iconic dish? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions!
Tools Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Salad bowl
- Whisk
- Salad dressing container
Ingredients
- Lemon: 1
- Red wine vinegar: 1/3 cup
- Mayonnaise: 1/2 cup
- Extra virgin olive oil: 1 tablespoon
- Dried parsley: 1 teaspoon
- Dried basil: 1 teaspoon
- Dried oregano: 1/2 teaspoon
- Salt: 1/4 teaspoon
- Garlic powder: 1/2 teaspoon
- Romaine lettuce: 4-6 cups
- Red onion
- Tomato: 1-2
- Kalamata olives
- Pepperoncini
- Parmesan cheese: 2 tablespoons (plus extra for topping)
- Black pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Dressing
- Juice one lemon (about 1/4 to 1/3 cup).
- In a mixing bowl, combine lemon juice, red wine vinegar, mayonnaise, olive oil, parsley, basil, oregano, salt, and garlic powder.
- Whisk until smooth and pour into a salad dressing container.
Step 2. Assemble the Salad
- In a large salad bowl, combine 4-6 cups of chopped romaine lettuce, sliced red onion, sliced tomato, Kalamata olives, and pepperoncini.
Step 3. Add Finishing Touches
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and freshly ground black pepper.
Step 4. Dress and Serve
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
Read more: Sicilian Penne with Cauliflower: A Flavorful Mediterranean Dish
Tips
- You can add 2 tablespoons of Parmesan cheese to the dressing for extra creaminess.
- Adjust the amount of red onion, tomato, olives, and pepperoncini to your liking.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
Yes! The dressing tastes even better the next day after the flavors have melded. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
2. What can I substitute for the salami?
Feel free to substitute with prosciutto, pepperoni, or even cooked chicken for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a vegetarian option, omit the meat entirely.
Enjoy your delicious, homemade Olive Garden copycat salad! This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for any occasion. Now go forth and impress your family and friends with your newfound culinary skills!