Olive Garden is famous for its delicious, fresh, and flavorful salads, which have become a beloved part of the dining experience for many.
From the classic house salad to more creative options like the Italian chopped salad, each dish offers a delightful combination of fresh ingredients, tangy dressings, and satisfying textures.
Whether you’re craving something light and refreshing or looking to pair your favorite Italian entrée with a perfect side, Olive Garden salad recipes are versatile enough to suit any palate.
In this article, we’ll share a collection of mouthwatering Olive Garden-inspired salad recipes that you can easily recreate at home, bringing the taste of the restaurant right into your kitchen.
15+ Delicious Olive Garden Salad Recipes for Every Occasion
Recreating Olive Garden’s famous salads in your own kitchen can be a fun and rewarding experience.
Whether you’re preparing a simple side salad or a more complex dish packed with bold flavors, these recipes are perfect for any occasion.
With the right combination of fresh vegetables, cheeses, and dressings, you can easily elevate any meal.
Experiment with different ingredients and dressings to suit your tastes, and you’ll be enjoying restaurant-quality salads at home in no time.
So grab your favorite salad bowl and start preparing these delicious Olive Garden-inspired salads that will impress family and friends alike!
Classic Olive Garden Salad
This Classic Olive Garden Salad is a delicious and refreshing blend of crisp greens, tangy dressing, and savory cheese. It’s the perfect side dish to accompany any Italian meal or can even be enjoyed on its own. With a mix of romaine lettuce, tomatoes, olives, and pepperoncini, this salad brings the taste of Olive Garden to your kitchen. A light and flavorful homemade dressing adds the finishing touch.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup pepperoncini peppers, sliced
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup white wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, red onion, black olives, pepperoncini, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, white wine vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
- Serve immediately for a fresh and tasty meal.
This Classic Olive Garden Salad is a delightful, easy-to-make dish that brings the flavors of the famous restaurant right to your dining table. It’s a great addition to pasta dishes, grilled meats, or even as a standalone lunch. The tangy dressing perfectly complements the freshness of the vegetables, while the cheese adds a rich, savory touch. Perfect for any occasion, this salad will quickly become a favorite!
Olive Garden Garden Salad with Chicken
Take the classic Olive Garden Salad to the next level by adding grilled chicken. This version is hearty enough to serve as a full meal, combining tender chicken with crisp greens, olives, and a zesty homemade dressing. It’s a flavorful and satisfying salad that’s perfect for lunch or dinner, offering a protein-packed twist on the traditional recipe.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup pepperoncini peppers, sliced
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for grilling
For the dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. Grill the chicken over medium-high heat until cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.
- In a large bowl, combine the romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, red onion, black olives, pepperoncini, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, basil, salt, and pepper.
- Add the sliced chicken on top of the salad and drizzle with the homemade dressing. Toss gently to combine.
- Serve immediately for a filling and delicious meal.
This Olive Garden Garden Salad with Chicken is the perfect way to elevate the classic recipe while adding a healthy source of protein. The grilled chicken not only makes the salad more filling, but it also enhances the flavor with its smoky, savory taste. Paired with a zesty homemade dressing, this salad becomes an unforgettable dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or a refreshing side.
Olive Garden Salad with Italian Sausage
For a unique twist on the traditional Olive Garden Salad, try this version with Italian sausage. The combination of spicy sausage, fresh vegetables, and a rich, tangy dressing makes for a hearty and flavorful dish. Ideal for a comforting lunch or dinner, this salad offers a perfect balance of savory, spicy, and refreshing flavors that will satisfy your taste buds.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup pepperoncini peppers, sliced
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 Italian sausage links, casings removed
- Olive oil for cooking
For the dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the Italian sausage until browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Remove from heat and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, red onion, black olives, pepperoncini, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Add the cooked sausage to the salad and toss gently with the dressing.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the bold, spicy flavors of this unique twist on a classic salad.
This Olive Garden Salad with Italian Sausage is a hearty and satisfying meal that brings a bold, spicy flavor to the classic salad. The sausage adds a savory richness that balances beautifully with the fresh vegetables and tangy dressing. Whether you’re in the mood for something a bit more filling or simply want to try a new take on an old favorite, this recipe will not disappoint. Perfect for a family dinner or a casual gathering, it’s a delightful dish everyone will love!
Olive Garden Salad with Shrimp
This Olive Garden Salad with Shrimp brings a touch of seafood to the classic recipe. The juicy shrimp are seasoned and sautéed to perfection, adding a light yet flavorful protein to the mix of fresh vegetables and tangy dressing. With the addition of succulent shrimp, this salad becomes a satisfying meal that’s perfect for a special dinner or a refreshing summer dish.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup pepperoncini peppers, sliced
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup white wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the shrimp with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Sauté the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and fully cooked. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, red onion, black olives, pepperoncini, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, basil, salt, and pepper.
- Add the sautéed shrimp to the salad and drizzle with the dressing. Toss gently to combine.
- Serve immediately for a light, satisfying meal.
This Olive Garden Salad with Shrimp is a perfect option for seafood lovers. The sweet, tender shrimp add a burst of flavor that complements the fresh vegetables and tangy dressing. It’s light yet filling and works wonderfully as a main dish or as a refreshing side to pasta or grilled meats. This simple yet elegant salad is a great way to enjoy the tastes of the Mediterranean in the comfort of your own home.
Olive Garden Chopped Salad
The Olive Garden Chopped Salad offers a fresh and crunchy twist on the classic recipe by finely chopping the vegetables for a more uniform texture. This makes each bite packed with flavor, combining everything from greens to cheeses in every forkful. The homemade dressing provides a tangy finish, making this salad a perfect addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered
- 1/4 cup black olives, chopped
- 1/4 cup pepperoncini peppers, chopped
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup crispy bacon bits (optional)
For the dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, add the chopped romaine lettuce, cucumber, red onion, cherry tomatoes, black olives, pepperoncini, mozzarella, Parmesan, and crispy bacon bits.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper until the dressing is well combined.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to ensure all the ingredients are coated.
- Serve immediately for a crunchy, flavorful salad that will become a crowd favorite.
The Olive Garden Chopped Salad offers a satisfying crunch and vibrant flavors in every bite. By chopping the vegetables into smaller pieces, the flavors meld together beautifully, ensuring that each forkful is a delightful combination of textures and tastes. The addition of crispy bacon is optional but adds an extra layer of richness and savory flavor. Whether served as a side dish or a light main course, this chopped version of the classic Olive Garden salad is sure to please.
Olive Garden Salad with Balsamic Glaze
This Olive Garden Salad with Balsamic Glaze takes the classic salad to a new level of flavor with a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze. The glaze adds a rich depth to the vegetables, cheeses, and dressing, creating a perfectly balanced dish that’s both fresh and indulgent. A great option for any occasion, this salad brings a touch of elegance to the traditional recipe.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup pepperoncini peppers, sliced
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)
For the dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, red onion, black olives, pepperoncini, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Finish by drizzling the balsamic glaze over the top of the salad for a sweet and tangy finish.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the delicious contrast of flavors.
This Olive Garden Salad with Balsamic Glaze is a flavorful and unique take on the classic salad. The balsamic glaze adds a touch of sweetness and richness that enhances the fresh vegetables and savory cheeses. The dressing provides a perfect balance, making this salad ideal for any meal. Whether served with pasta, grilled chicken, or as a standalone dish, this salad will be a hit at your table, offering an elevated experience with every bite.
Olive Garden Spinach and Arugula Salad
This Olive Garden Spinach and Arugula Salad adds a peppery kick to the classic salad with the vibrant flavors of fresh spinach and arugula. The combination of these leafy greens with tangy dressing, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses creates a delightful and light salad that’s perfect for a nutritious lunch or a side to your Italian meal. The addition of fresh herbs and a sprinkle of lemon zest gives the salad an added freshness that makes it stand out.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups baby spinach, washed and chopped
- 2 cups arugula, washed and chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
- Zest of 1 lemon
For the dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the spinach, arugula, red onion, cherry tomatoes, black olives, mozzarella, Parmesan, fresh basil, and lemon zest.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine, making sure everything is well coated.
- Serve immediately for a light and refreshing salad with a peppery, tangy twist.
This Olive Garden Spinach and Arugula Salad is a refreshing variation of the classic recipe, adding vibrant greens and fresh herbs that elevate the flavor profile. The tangy dressing and lemon zest give the salad a bright, zesty finish, while the mozzarella and Parmesan bring a rich, savory contrast. Perfect as a side dish or a light meal, this salad is sure to please anyone looking for a healthy, flavorful option.
Olive Garden Mediterranean Salad
This Mediterranean-inspired Olive Garden Salad is loaded with the bold and earthy flavors of the Mediterranean. With Kalamata olives, feta cheese, cucumbers, and a zesty lemon-oregano dressing, this salad offers a refreshing and savory taste of Greece. Whether served as a side or a main dish with grilled meats, this Mediterranean salad will transport your taste buds to the sunny shores of the Mediterranean Sea.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups mixed greens (e.g., romaine, spinach, and arugula)
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
For the dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cucumber, red onion, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, cherry tomatoes, and parsley.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss well to combine.
- Serve immediately as a refreshing Mediterranean-inspired salad.
This Olive Garden Mediterranean Salad brings the bold, savory flavors of the Mediterranean into a light, healthy salad. The combination of fresh vegetables, salty olives, and creamy feta pairs perfectly with the tangy lemon-oregano dressing. It’s a great addition to any summer meal or a light dinner on its own, providing a refreshing and satisfying dish that’s packed with flavor.
Olive Garden Caesar Salad
The Olive Garden Caesar Salad is a classic favorite that brings together crisp romaine lettuce, savory Parmesan cheese, crunchy croutons, and a creamy, tangy Caesar dressing. This version is a simple and easy-to-make recipe that captures the flavors of a restaurant Caesar salad in the comfort of your own home. It’s the perfect side dish for pasta, chicken, or steak and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/4 cup croutons
- Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
For the dressing:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, grated Parmesan cheese, and croutons.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, grated Parmesan, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.
- Top with freshly ground black pepper to taste and serve immediately.
This Olive Garden Caesar Salad is a creamy, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The rich Caesar dressing is both tangy and savory, perfectly complementing the crisp romaine and crunchy croutons. This simple salad is easy to prepare and pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes, from pasta to grilled meats. Whether as a side or a main, this Caesar Salad will quickly become a family favorite.
Olive Garden Italian Chopped Salad with Salami
This Italian Chopped Salad with Salami combines the classic flavors of Italy in a fresh and satisfying way. The finely chopped vegetables, combined with the savory salami, mozzarella, and olives, create a salad that’s both hearty and refreshing. Paired with a tangy Italian dressing, this salad is perfect for those looking for a filling yet light option that bursts with bold flavors.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups mixed greens (romaine, arugula, spinach)
- 1/2 cup pepperoni or salami, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the dressing:
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mixed greens, diced salami, red onion, cucumber, Kalamata olives, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the red wine vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to combine.
- Serve immediately for a hearty and flavorful salad.
The Olive Garden Italian Chopped Salad with Salami offers a satisfying and savory take on the classic salad. The addition of salami adds a bold and flavorful twist, making the salad more filling and perfect for lunch or dinner. The fresh veggies and creamy mozzarella balance the tangy Italian dressing, ensuring every bite is full of flavor. It’s the ideal salad for anyone craving a little extra zest in their greens.
Olive Garden Avocado Salad
This Olive Garden Avocado Salad brings a creamy, rich texture to the classic Italian salad. The buttery avocados blend seamlessly with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and zesty Italian dressing, offering a delightful contrast to the crunch of the lettuce. This salad is a perfect way to enjoy the goodness of ripe avocados with the freshness of the Mediterranean, making it a delicious and light meal option.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup mozzarella balls, halved
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
For the dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, mozzarella, and cilantro.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine, ensuring the avocado doesn’t mash.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the creamy and fresh flavors.
The Olive Garden Avocado Salad offers a creamy twist on the classic recipe, with ripe avocado providing a rich texture and flavor. The freshness of the vegetables pairs perfectly with the tangy dressing, making this salad a refreshing and satisfying choice. Ideal for a light lunch or as a side to your favorite Italian dish, this avocado salad brings a delightful balance of creamy and crisp in every bite.
Olive Garden Roasted Vegetable Salad
The Olive Garden Roasted Vegetable Salad is a warm and hearty variation of the classic salad. The roasted vegetables—carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini—add a smoky flavor and sweetness that perfectly complement the fresh greens. Topped with feta cheese and a lemony vinaigrette, this salad makes for a comforting yet light dish that’s perfect for any season, especially during the colder months.
Ingredients:
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 4 cups mixed greens (e.g., spinach, arugula, or romaine)
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
For the dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the carrots, bell pepper, and zucchini on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mixed greens, roasted vegetables, feta cheese, and red onion.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Serve immediately for a warm, comforting salad that’s both light and satisfying.
The Olive Garden Roasted Vegetable Salad provides a heartwarming option with roasted vegetables that add depth of flavor and texture. The smoky sweetness from the roasted veggies pairs perfectly with the tangy dressing and creamy feta, offering a well-rounded salad. Ideal as a side dish or a light meal, this salad brings comfort and freshness together in every bite, making it perfect for both chilly days and warm evenings.
Olive Garden Caprese Salad
The Olive Garden Caprese Salad is a classic Italian dish that showcases the best of fresh, seasonal ingredients. With juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, this simple salad is a celebration of flavors. The addition of a drizzle of balsamic glaze elevates the salad, adding a touch of sweetness to balance the savory mozzarella and tangy tomatoes. It’s perfect as a side dish or a light appetizer to any Italian meal.
Ingredients:
- 3 large ripe tomatoes, sliced
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Arrange the sliced tomatoes and mozzarella in alternating layers on a large plate or platter.
- Tuck fresh basil leaves between the slices for a pop of color and flavor.
- Drizzle the balsamic glaze and olive oil over the top of the salad.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately for a fresh and vibrant appetizer.
The Olive Garden Caprese Salad is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something extraordinary. The creamy mozzarella, sweet tomatoes, and aromatic basil are complemented by the tangy balsamic glaze and olive oil. This salad is an ideal choice for those seeking a refreshing and light dish, perfect for any occasion or as a side to your favorite Italian entrée.
Olive Garden Panzanella Salad
This Olive Garden Panzanella Salad is a rustic, hearty salad that combines ripe tomatoes, crispy toasted bread, and fresh vegetables. It’s the ideal way to use up stale bread, transforming it into a flavorful base for a salad with a Mediterranean twist. With a light vinaigrette dressing and a hint of fresh basil, this salad is perfect for summer or as a satisfying side dish to any meal.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups crusty bread (such as a baguette or Italian bread), cut into cubes
- 2 large tomatoes, chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the bread cubes on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Toast for 10-12 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
- In a large bowl, combine the chopped tomatoes, red onion, cucumber, and fresh basil.
- Add the toasted bread cubes to the bowl and gently toss to combine.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss again to coat evenly.
- Serve immediately or let sit for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
The Olive Garden Panzanella Salad is a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s perfect for summer. The toasted bread absorbs the tangy dressing and the juices from the tomatoes, creating a deliciously rustic texture. The combination of fresh vegetables, basil, and a simple vinaigrette dressing brings a light yet hearty appeal to the salad, making it a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or a glass of wine.
Olive Garden Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad
The Olive Garden Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad offers a beautiful contrast of earthy, sweet beets and creamy, tangy goat cheese. Roasting the beets brings out their natural sweetness, while the goat cheese adds a creamy richness to the dish. Combined with fresh greens and a balsamic vinaigrette dressing, this salad is perfect for those looking for a light yet elegant meal or a unique side dish.
Ingredients:
- 2 medium beets, peeled and sliced
- 4 cups mixed greens (e.g., arugula, spinach, or mixed baby greens)
- 1/4 cup goat cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup walnuts, toasted (optional)
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
For the dressing:
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the beet slices on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
- In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, roasted beets, goat cheese, walnuts (if using), and red onion.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Serve immediately for a fresh and flavorful salad.
The Olive Garden Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad is a beautiful, sophisticated dish that brings a perfect balance of flavors. The sweetness of the roasted beets contrasts beautifully with the tangy goat cheese, while the walnuts add a crunchy texture. The balsamic vinaigrette ties everything together, creating a light yet luxurious salad that’s perfect for special occasions or a light meal. It’s a great option for those looking to try something new with familiar ingredients!
Note: More recipes are coming soon!