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Create the perfect restaurant-inspired salad at home with this Olive Garden-style recipe. Featuring a mix of crisp lettuce, vibrant vegetables, tangy pepperoncinis, and crunchy croutons, it’s topped with a zesty homemade Italian dressing. This salad is a versatile side dish that pairs well with pasta, grilled meats, or pizza. With simple, fresh ingredients and an easy-to-make dressing, it’s ideal for weeknight meals or special gatherings. Adjust the components to suit your taste and serve with warm breadsticks for an authentic touch.

Ingredients

For the Salad:

8 cups chopped lettuce
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 grated Parmesan cheese

For the Dressing:

¾ cup extra virgin olive oil (smooth preferred over robust)
1 (.7 oz.) packet Zesty Italian Dressing Mix
1/3 cup white vinegar
¼ cup water
1 tablespoon grated Romano cheese (or substitute Parmesan)
3 teaspoons sugar
1 ½ teaspoons mayonnaise (not Miracle Whip)
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
½ teaspoon EACH: Italian seasoning, salt
¼ teaspoon EACH: pepper, garlic powder

Instructions

Prepare the Dressing

Combine all dressing ingredients in a mini food processor or a jar with a tight-fitting lid.
Blend or shake well until fully combined and emulsified.
Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.

Assemble the Salad

Prepare the salad ingredients by washing and chopping as needed. Use a paper towel to absorb excess moisture from the sliced tomatoes to maintain freshness and crispness.
In a large bowl, combine the lettuce, red cabbage, carrots, red onion, black olives, Roma tomatoes, and pepperoncinis.
Set aside the croutons and Parmesan cheese for topping.

Combine and Serve

Drizzle the desired amount of dressing over the salad and toss to combine. (You may not need all the dressing; refrigerate any leftovers.)
Sprinkle with croutons and grated Parmesan cheese.
Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Restaurant-Style Flavor: Recreate the classic taste of Olive Garden’s salad in the comfort of your own home.
Customizable Ingredients: Adjust the salad components and dressing to suit your preferences.
Fresh and Crisp: The combination of fresh vegetables and zesty dressing makes every bite refreshing.
Pairs Perfectly: Complements a variety of main courses, especially creamy pastas like Alfredo.

Tips

Prep Ahead: Chop the vegetables and prepare the dressing in advance to save time.
Keep it Crisp: Pat vegetables like tomatoes and lettuce dry to avoid sogginess.
Dressing Storage: Store extra dressing in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Cheese Substitution: Romano cheese adds a sharper flavor, but Parmesan works just as well.

Variations and Substitutions

Vegetarian Option: Use a vegetarian Italian dressing mix if needed.
Protein Additions: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a heartier salad.
Cheese Variations: Swap Parmesan for feta or mozzarella for a different flavor.
Low-Sugar Dressing: Reduce or omit the sugar if desired.

FAQs

Can I use a different lettuce? Yes, try Romaine, iceberg, or a mix of spring greens.

How can I make the dressing creamier? Add an extra ½ teaspoon of mayonnaise or a splash of heavy cream.

What if I don’t have a food processor? Shake the dressing vigorously in a jar until well combined.

Serving and Suggestions

Serve alongside Olive Garden-style Alfredo, lasagna, or other Italian dishes for a complete meal.
Add garlic bread or breadsticks to round out the meal.
Garnish with extra Parmesan or fresh basil for added flavor and presentation.