Olive Garden Salad

by
Print Recipe

Introduction

The Olive Garden Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that brings together crisp greens, a variety of vegetables, and a tangy Italian dressing. This version is perfect for Valentine’s Day — a light, flavorful salad that pairs well with any main course and makes for a great start to a romantic dinner. Whether you’re planning a cozy dinner for two or a romantic meal for a special gathering, this Olive Garden Salad will add the perfect touch.

I remember the first time I made this for a Valentine’s Day dinner. It was the perfect light yet flavorful start to the meal, and everyone loved how fresh and colorful it looked on the table. What’s great about this salad is how customizable it is—you can add extra toppings like olives, croutons, or a sprinkle of Parmesan to make it your own. The tangy Italian dressing ties everything together, giving the salad just the right amount of zing.

This salad is incredibly simple to make, too. With just a few fresh ingredients and a quick toss in the dressing, you can create a restaurant-worthy dish in no time. Whether you’re preparing for a romantic evening or a festive gathering, the Olive Garden Salad is sure to impress!

Perfect for:

  • Valentine’s Day dinner
  • Light yet satisfying starter
  • A healthy, vibrant addition to your romantic meal
  • Pairing with pasta, chicken, or steak

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Olive Garden Salad for Valentine’s Day will be a hit:

  • Crisp and Fresh: This salad features a mix of fresh vegetables, ensuring each bite is refreshing and light.
  • Zesty Italian Dressing: The homemade Italian dressing brings the perfect balance of tang and flavor, with a hint of sweetness.
  • No Pork or Bacon: Perfect for those who prefer a vegetarian or pork-free option.
  • Customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients or dressing to suit your preferences, while still keeping it romantic for the occasion.
  • Colorful and Beautiful: The vibrant colors of the veggies and the fresh greens make it a beautiful addition to your Valentine’s Day table.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Servings: 4 servings
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 180-220 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 3g, Carbs: 15g, Fat: 14g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delicious Olive Garden Salad for Valentine’s Day:

For the Salad:

  • 4 cups mixed greens (romaine, iceberg, spinach)
  • 1 cucumber, sliced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • ½ red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup sliced carrots
  • ½ cup pepperoncini peppers (optional)
  • ½ cup Kalamata olives or black olives, pitted and sliced
  • ½ cup croutons (use a vegetarian option, if needed)
  • ¼ cup shredded Parmesan cheese (or more to taste)

For the Italian Dressing:

  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp red wine vinegar (or white wine vinegar)
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp sugar (optional, for sweetness)
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Ingredient Highlights

  • Mixed Greens: A variety of fresh greens provides the base of the salad, offering a blend of crunchy and tender textures.
  • Vegetables: The crisp cucumber, sweet cherry tomatoes, and bright red onion give the salad a fresh, vibrant look.
  • Olives and Pepperoncini: These provide a briny, tangy contrast to the other ingredients.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor to round out the taste.
  • Italian Dressing: A simple yet flavorful dressing with olive oil, vinegar, mustard, and spices creates the perfect finishing touch.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make the Olive Garden Salad for Valentine’s Day:

Prepare the Salad:

  1. Wash and Dry the Greens: Rinse the mixed greens thoroughly in cold water. Pat dry with a towel or use a salad spinner.
  2. Prepare the Vegetables: Slice the cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and carrots. If you’re using pepperoncini or olives, slice those as well.
  3. Assemble the Salad: In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, carrots, pepperoncini, and olives. Toss them together to distribute evenly.
  4. Add the Parmesan and Croutons: Sprinkle the shredded Parmesan cheese over the top and add croutons.

Prepare the Dressing:

  1. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar (if using), oregano, basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  2. Toss the Salad: Drizzle the dressing over the salad, then toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly. Serve immediately.

How to Serve

  • With a Romantic Main Course: Pair this salad with pasta, grilled chicken, or a light seafood dish for a romantic dinner.
  • On a Special Table Setting: Arrange the salad on small, elegant plates for a special touch.
  • Serve with a Side of Bread: A warm, crusty baguette or garlic bread can be served alongside the salad for an extra treat.
  • Light and Refreshing: Serve as a lighter option before a rich main course like lasagna or chicken Alfredo.

Additional Tips

  • Make Ahead: Prepare the salad ingredients in advance, but wait until serving to add the dressing and croutons to keep it fresh.
  • Customize the Veggies: Add or omit ingredients based on personal preferences. Avocado or bell peppers are great additions.
  • Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: For a richer flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan instead of pre-shredded.
  • Adjust the Dressing: Feel free to add more vinegar for extra tang or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for heat.

Recipe Variations

  1. Vegan Olive Garden Salad (use dairy-free Parmesan and croutons)
  2. Olive Garden Salad with Grilled Chicken (add sliced grilled chicken for protein)
  3. Olive Garden Salad with Avocado (add creamy avocado slices)
  4. Mediterranean Olive Garden Salad (add feta cheese and cucumbers)
  5. Olive Garden Salad with Roasted Vegetables (roast carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers)
  6. Olive Garden Salad with Pomegranate (add pomegranate seeds for a sweet twist)
  7. Olive Garden Salad with Roasted Chickpeas (for added crunch and protein)
  8. Olive Garden Salad with Shrimp (pair with grilled shrimp for a seafood touch)
  9. Cauliflower Rice Olive Garden Salad (use cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option)
  10. Olive Garden Salad with a Lemon Vinaigrette (swap the Italian dressing for a bright lemon vinaigrette)

Freezing and Storage

  • Freezing: This salad doesn’t freeze well due to the fresh ingredients. It’s best enjoyed fresh.
  • Storage: Store leftovers (without dressing) in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1-2 days. Dress before serving.

Special Equipment

  • Salad spinner (optional)
  • Whisk for the dressing
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Salad bowl

FAQ Section

  1. Can I add bacon? Yes, if you prefer bacon, feel free to add it, but it’s not required for this version.
  2. Can I use a different cheese? Yes, try mozzarella or goat cheese for a different flavor.
  3. How can I make it spicier? Add red pepper flakes to the dressing for a kick!
  4. Can I add fruit? Yes, berries or orange segments could add a nice contrast.
  5. Can I make this gluten-free? Use gluten-free croutons to keep it gluten-free.

Conclusion

This Olive Garden Salad for Valentine’s Day is the perfect light and flavorful starter for your romantic meal. The crisp, refreshing vegetables, paired with a tangy dressing, create a vibrant dish that’s as delicious as it is beautiful. With a no-pork option, it’s perfect for any dietary preference, ensuring that everyone can enjoy it.

Whether you’re setting the stage for a cozy dinner or celebrating a special moment with loved ones, this salad brings a fresh, bright touch to your Valentine’s Day. It’s the ideal way to start your meal on a light and flavorful note.

I’d love to see how your Olive Garden Salad for Valentine’s Day turns out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your beautiful creations. Enjoy your romantic celebration!

Leave a Comment