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Olive Garden Salad

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The Olive Garden Salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish combining fresh vegetables, a tangy homemade dressing, and crunchy croutons. It’s a perfect complement to any Italian meal or can stand alone as a light meal. With its crisp greens, juicy tomatoes, olives, and Parmesan, this salad is sure to satisfy.

Ingredients

6 cups mixed salad greens (romaine, iceberg, and spinach)

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1/2 cucumber, sliced

1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced

1/4 cup black olives, pitted and sliced

1/4 cup pepperoncini peppers (optional)

1/2 cup croutons (store-bought or homemade)

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup olive oil (for the dressing)

2 tablespoons red vinegar

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

1 teaspoon sugar

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/4 teaspoon dried oregano

Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, and pepperoncini peppers (if using).
  2. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, red vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, sugar, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
  3. Assemble the Salad: Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
  4. Add Toppings: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese and croutons over the top of the salad and toss lightly.
  5. Serve: Serve immediately, or refrigerate for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Notes

For a more substantial meal, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or a hard-boiled egg for extra protein.

To make it vegan, simply omit the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

Store the salad ingredients ahead of time but add the dressing and croutons just before serving to maintain freshness.

Nutrition