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The Ultimate Copycat Olive Garden Salad with Zesty Homemade Italian Dressing

A close-up, sunlit photo of a bowl featuring a fresh copycat Olive Garden salad with romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, black olives, and large croutons.
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Recreate the famous Olive Garden Salad at home using this simple recipe. It features crisp romaine, tomatoes, olives, pepperoncini, and a tangy, homemade Italian dressing that tastes just like the restaurant’s version.

Ingredients

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  • 9 ounce bag romaine salad mix
  • 2 roma tomatoes, sliced
  • 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 8 ounces black olives, drained
  • 8 ounces pepperoncini peppers, drained
  • 2 cups croutons
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
  • 3/4 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup avocado oil
  • 1/2 cup white vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 1 packet Zesty Italian Dressing Mix (use dry mix only)
  • 2 teaspoons sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. For the dressing, combine the olive oil, avocado oil, white vinegar, mayonnaise, dry Italian dressing mix, sugar, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a jar or blender.
  2. Secure the lid and shake well, or blend until the mixture emulsifies and becomes creamy. Set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the romaine lettuce, sliced tomatoes, red onion slices, black olives, and pepperoncini peppers.
  4. Add the homemade dressing to the salad ingredients. Toss gently until all components are lightly coated.
  5. Add the croutons and grated Parmesan cheese. Toss briefly one more time to combine.
  6. Serve the salad immediately for the best texture.

Notes

  • For a make-ahead option, prepare the dressing up to three days in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
  • If you want a thicker dressing, chill it for 30 minutes before tossing with the greens.
  • Add grilled chicken or shrimp to make this a main course.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookincorner.com/copycat-olive-garden-salad/