Name: Olive Garden Salad Copycat
Prep time: 25 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 8 cups chopped lettuce; 1/4 cup red cabbage, shredded; 1/4 cup carrots, julienned; 1/4 cup red onion; 1/2 cup black olives; 2 Roma tomatoes, sliced; 1/3 cup pepperoncinis; 1 cup croutons; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 3/4 cup extra virgin olive oil; 1 packet Zesty Italian Dressing Mix (.7 oz); 1/3 cup white vinegar; 1/4 cup water; 1 tablespoon grated Romano cheese; 3 teaspoons sugar; 1 1/2 teaspoons mayonnaise; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon pepper; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

Jump to Recipe

Olive Garden Salad Copycat brings the crisp, zesty flavor of the famous restaurant favorite straight to your kitchen. This refreshing copycat recipe features crunchy lettuce, briny olives, tangy pepperoncini, and the signature Italian dressing that ties everything together. If you love a bright, flavorful side dish that feels just like the restaurant version, this homemade version delivers every time. Best of all, you can prepare it in just 25 minutes with simple, fresh ingredients you likely already have on hand.

Story

The first time I made this Olive Garden Salad Copycat at home, I wanted something fresh and satisfying to serve alongside pasta. Although I love ordering it at the restaurant, I quickly realized that recreating it at home gives you full control over the texture and flavor. This Olive Garden Salad Copycat tastes vibrant, crisp, and perfectly balanced, especially when you toss it with homemade dressing just before serving.

What makes this Olive Garden Salad Copycat stand out is the contrast of textures. Crisp lettuce pairs beautifully with juicy tomatoes and briny olives. Meanwhile, the pepperoncini adds that unmistakable tang that defines the restaurant experience. Because you mix everything fresh, this fresh salad stays crunchy and bright. Whether you serve it for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this restaurant copycat version always impresses.

Ingredients

Salad

8 cups chopped lettuce (combination of iceberg and romaine recommended)
¼ cup red cabbage, shredded
¼ cup carrots, julienned
¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
½ cup black olives
2 Roma tomatoes, sliced
1/3 cup pepperoncinis
1 cup croutons
¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Dressing

3/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
1 (.7 oz.) packet zesty Italian dressing mix
1/3 cup white vinegar
¼ cup water
1 tablespoon grated Romano cheese (or Parmesan)
3 teaspoons sugar
1 ½ teaspoons mayonnaise
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon pepper
¼ teaspoon garlic powder

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Ingredients

Start by washing and thoroughly drying the lettuce. Chop it into bite-sized pieces and place it in a large mixing bowl. Next, shred the red cabbage and julienne the carrots for added crunch. Slice the red onion thinly so it blends evenly throughout the salad.

Slice the Roma tomatoes and gently pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This step keeps your Olive Garden Salad Copycat crisp instead of soggy. Measure out the olives and pepperoncinis, then set the croutons and Parmesan aside until serving time.

Cooking Instructions

Combine all dressing ingredients in a mini food processor or a jar with a secure lid. Blend or shake vigorously until the mixture emulsifies and thickens slightly. Refrigerate the dressing while you assemble the salad.

Add the lettuce, cabbage, carrots, onion, olives, tomatoes, and pepperoncinis to the bowl. Drizzle with your desired amount of dressing and toss gently until evenly coated. Remember, you will not need all of the dressing. Finally, sprinkle with croutons and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Tips for Perfect Results

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Do not toss the salad too early. If you mix everything too far in advance, the lettuce loses its crisp texture. Always combine just before serving.

Avoid overdressing the salad. Because the homemade Italian dressing carries bold flavor, a light coating works best. Also, dry the tomatoes thoroughly to prevent excess moisture from watering down the dressing.

Pro Tips for Better Flavor

Use freshly grated Parmesan and Romano cheese for richer flavor. Pre-shredded cheese lacks the same texture and taste. Choose smooth extra virgin olive oil rather than a robust variety, as strong oil can overpower the balance.

For even more authenticity, chill your serving bowl before assembling the salad. This simple step keeps everything cool and crisp. If your leftover dressing solidifies in the refrigerator, allow it to sit at room temperature until liquified, then shake well before using.

Serving and Storage

How to Serve

Serve this Olive Garden Salad Copycat as a refreshing side dish with pasta, grilled chicken, or seafood. It pairs especially well with creamy Alfredo dishes or baked pasta. Because it tastes bright and zesty, it balances richer main courses beautifully.

You can also serve it alongside homemade breadsticks for a complete restaurant-style experience at home. The crisp textures and bold flavors complement hearty Italian meals perfectly.

How to Store Leftovers

Store leftover salad components separately from the dressing if possible. Keep undressed salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one day. However, once dressed, the salad tastes best immediately.

Refrigerate leftover dressing in an airtight container for up to three days. Shake well before using again. You can also use the dressing as a marinade for chicken for added versatility.

Conclusion

This Olive Garden Salad Copycat delivers restaurant flavor with simple ingredients and minimal effort. Because you prepare everything fresh and toss it just before serving, the result stays crisp, bright, and satisfying. If you crave that iconic Italian dressing and crunchy texture, this homemade version gives you the full experience without leaving your kitchen. Try it once, and it will quickly become your go-to fresh salad for family dinners and gatherings.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dressing up to three days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and shake well before serving.

What type of lettuce works best?

A combination of iceberg and romaine lettuce provides the ideal balance of crunch and structure. Iceberg adds crispness, while romaine offers sturdiness.

Can I make this salad gluten free?

Absolutely. Simply substitute gluten-free croutons or omit them entirely. The rest of the ingredients naturally fit a gluten-free diet.