Copycat Olive Garden Salad Dressing Recipe

Introduction

This Copycat Olive Garden Salad Dressing is creamy, tangy, and packed with Italian herbs, making it the perfect complement to fresh greens. Easy to make at home, it brings the classic restaurant flavor straight to your salad bowl.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/3 cup red wine vinegar
• 1/3 cup lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, olive oil, dried parsley, dried basil, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and Parmesan cheese if using.
2. Step 2: Pour the dressing into a salad dressing container or jar. Seal tightly and refrigerate for up to 4 weeks to allow flavors to meld.
3. Step 3: Serve over a classic Olive Garden style salad—Romaine lettuce topped with red onion, tomato, whole pepperoncini, kalamata olives, croutons, extra grated Parmesan, and freshly cracked black pepper.

Tips & Variations

• For a lighter version, substitute half the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for added creaminess and tang.
• Add a pinch of sugar or honey if you prefer a slightly sweeter dressing.
• Fresh herbs can replace dried for a brighter flavor, but increase the quantity accordingly.

Storage

Store the dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 weeks. Before serving, give it a good stir or shake as ingredients may settle. This dressing is best enjoyed chilled.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder?

Yes, you can use 1 small clove of minced fresh garlic, but it may impart a stronger and sharper flavor. Adjust according to your taste preference.

Is this dressing suitable for vegans?

No, this recipe contains mayonnaise which typically includes eggs, and Parmesan cheese which is dairy-based. To make a vegan version, use vegan mayonnaise and omit the cheese or use a plant-based alternative.

Copycat Olive Garden Salad Dressing Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 108 reviews

• Author: Mariam
• Total Time: 5 minutes
• Yield: About 1 cup dressing (serves 6–8 salads) 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Copycat Olive Garden Salad Dressing recipe captures the tangy and herbaceous flavors of the beloved restaurant’s classic dressing. Made with a blend of mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, and Italian herbs, it is perfect for drizzling over crisp Romaine lettuce and fresh vegetables, bringing authentic Italian-American salad dressing right to your kitchen.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Salad Dressing Ingredients

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/3 cup red wine vinegar
• 1/3 cup lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese (optional)

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Instructions

1. Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, extra-virgin olive oil, dried parsley, dried basil, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and grated parmesan cheese if using, until smooth and well combined.
2. Store the Dressing: Pour the dressing into a salad dressing container or airtight jar. Seal tightly and refrigerate to allow the flavors to meld, and keep it fresh for up to 4 weeks.
3. Serve Salad: For a classic Olive Garden Salad, arrange a bed of Romaine lettuce on a plate, and top with thinly sliced red onion, tomato wedges, whole pepperoncini peppers, kalamata olives, crunchy croutons, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, and freshly cracked black pepper. Drizzle the dressing just before serving.

Notes

• This dressing can be stored refrigerated for up to 4 weeks in an airtight container.
• Parmesan cheese is optional but adds richness and authentic flavor.
• Adjust the lemon juice and vinegar quantities based on your preferred tanginess.
• Freshly cracked black pepper on the salad enhances flavor.
• Use fresh herbs if preferred, but dried herbs offer convenience and consistent flavor.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Salad Dressing
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Keywords: Olive Garden dressing, copycat salad dressing, Italian salad dressing, creamy Italian dressing, homemade salad dressing, copycat recipe