Copycat Olive Garden Salad Dressing

Copycat Olive Garden Salad Dressing:

Introduction:

Love the tangy, creamy flavor of Olive Garden’s famous salad dressing? Now you can make it at home with this Copycat Olive Garden Salad Dressing recipe! Perfectly balanced with zesty Italian flavors, this dressing is ideal for tossing with fresh greens, drizzling over pasta salad, or serving as a dip for breadsticks and veggies.

Ingredients (Makes About 1 Cup):

1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup olive oil
1/4 cup white vinegar
1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons water (optional, to thin the dressing)

Instructions:

Step 1: Combine Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, olive oil, white vinegar, lemon juice, Parmesan cheese, sugar, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and onion powder.

Step 2: Adjust Seasoning
Taste the dressing and season with salt and pepper to your liking. If the dressing is too thick, whisk in 1-2 tablespoons of water until it reaches your desired consistency.

Step 3: Chill
Transfer the dressing to a jar or airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Serve
Drizzle the dressing over your favorite salad or use it as a dip for veggies or breadsticks.

Description:

This Copycat Olive Garden Salad Dressing captures the zesty, creamy flavors of the original. The Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning bring depth to the dressing, while the lemon juice and vinegar add a refreshing tang.

Tips for Success:

Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly grated Parmesan and freshly squeezed lemon juice elevate the flavor.
Thin as Needed: Add more water for a lighter consistency, perfect for drizzling over salads.
Make Ahead: Prepare the dressing a day in advance to let the flavors fully develop.
Store Properly: Keep the dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 2 Tablespoons):

Calories: 110
Carbohydrates: 1g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 11g
Sodium: 150mg
Sugar: 1g

(Values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used.)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version.

2. What type of vinegar should I use?
White vinegar works best for this recipe, but you can substitute with apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar for a slightly different flavor.

3. How long does this dressing last?
Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.

4. Can I make it without mayonnaise?
You can use Greek yogurt or sour cream as a substitute for mayonnaise.

5. Can I add fresh herbs?
Absolutely! Fresh parsley, oregano, or basil can enhance the flavor even further.

Serving Suggestions:

Toss with a mix of romaine lettuce, red onions, tomatoes, black olives, croutons, and pepperoncini peppers for a classic Olive Garden salad.
Drizzle over grilled chicken or shrimp for a zesty topping.
Use as a dip for breadsticks or raw vegetables.
Mix with pasta for a quick and flavorful pasta salad.

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Conclusion:

This Copycat Olive Garden Salad Dressing is a versatile and flavorful addition to your kitchen repertoire. Whether you’re recreating the Olive Garden experience at home or adding a touch of Italian flair to your meals, this dressing is sure to become a favorite. Whip it up today and savor the deliciousness!