If you’re a fan of Olive Garden’s famous salad dressing, you’re in for a treat. This copycat recipe brings all the tangy, savory goodness of the original right to your kitchen.
It’s simple to make and perfect for drizzling over your favorite greens. Ready to add a touch of restaurant-style flavor to your meals?
Let’s get started!
Steps
- Combine olive oil, mayonnaise, white vinegar, granulated sugar, Italian seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, freshly grated parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl. Whisk the ingredients thoroughly until they are well mixed.
- Alternatively, place all the ingredients in a mason jar, secure the lid, and shake vigorously to combine. Adjust the seasoning by adding more vinegar, sugar, salt, or pepper according to your taste preference.
- Transfer the dressing to a sealed container and store it in the refrigerator for 5-7 days. Before using, shake well as the ingredients may separate over time.
Ingredients
- style salad dressing:
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 3 tablespoons white vinegar
- 1/2 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Pepper, to taste
Nutritional Values
Calories: 952kcal | Carbohydrates: 8g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 104g | Saturated Fat: 16g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 24g | Monounsaturated Fat: 56g | Trans Fat: 8g | Cholesterol: 24mg | Sodium: 744mg | Potassium: 56mg | Fiber: 8g | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin A: 104IU | Vitamin C: 8mg | Calcium: 88mg | Iron: 8mg
FAQ
- What ingredients do I need to make Olive Garden-style salad dressing at home?
- To make the Olive Garden-style salad dressing, you’ll need olive oil, mayonnaise, white vinegar, sugar, Italian seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, freshly grated parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
- Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried Italian seasoning for the dressing?
- Yes, you can use fresh herbs, but keep in mind that the more changes you make, the less it will resemble the Olive Garden version. Experimenting with fresh herbs might lead to a different flavor profile.
- How should I store the homemade dressing, and how long will it last?
- Store the dressing in a tightly sealed container in the refrigerator. It should last for 5-7 days. Shake well before using, as separation may occur.
- Are there any substitutions for mayonnaise in this recipe?
- While mayonnaise is recommended for the best texture and flavor, you can use yogurt or sour cream as alternatives. Be aware that these substitutions will alter the intended taste.
- What vegetables go well with this Italian dressing in a salad?
- For a classic Olive Garden-style salad, use lettuce, black olives, pepperoncini peppers, sliced red onions, Roma tomatoes, and garlic croutons. However, this dressing also pairs well with mixed greens or even a coleslaw mix, allowing you to customize your salad with your favorite toppings.
Tips
- For the freshest taste and best texture, always grate your own parmesan cheese before adding it to the dressing.
- If you prefer a different flavor profile, consider experimenting with fresh herbs instead of the dried Italian seasoning, but remember this will alter the taste from the traditional Olive Garden version.
- Store your homemade dressing in a tightly sealed container in the fridge, and give it a good shake before using, as some separation will naturally occur.
- To keep your salad fresh, store the dressing and salad components separately and assemble them only when you’re ready to serve.
Equipment
- Mason Jar with Lid – Useful for shaking and storing the dressing.
- Whisk – For mixing the ingredients if not using a jar.
- Grater – For freshly grating parmesan cheese.
- Sealed Container – For storing the dressing in the fridge.
