Saucy Sunday – Olive Garden Salad Dressing

This copycat recipe for Olive Garden Italian dressing is pretty darn close to the original with its zesty, bold, tangy flavor and a hint of sweetness.

I thought I wasn’t a big fan of Olive Garden, but their unlimited salad and breadsticks are worth a trip and absolutely craveable. My daughter broke her Italian mama’s heart when she asked me to take her and her friends to the Olive Garden after their swim meet. How is this possible when I have a freezer full of homemade Italian dishes they all love? 

With a bit of an attitude, we went to their new favorite place. After refusing to order an entree, I decided on the salad and breadsticks. Oh my. My attitude quickly changed. The fluffy, salty, garlicky breadsticks and the crisp, flavorful salad with its signature dressing turned me into a fan…even after all these years.

The best part is that this recipe is easy to make and uses items you probably already have in your pantry.

What Can I Use This On Besides Salad?

I use this dressing for so many things! 

I like using it when I make a Cucumber and Tomato Caprese Salad, as a chicken marinade, and as a brushing sauce for chicken, shrimp, and steaks. 

I’ve also used it as a condiment for an Italian hoagie or sandwich. I also like to serve it in a small dish as a dip for bread. It’s always a hit.

Ingredients Needed

• Olive oil – use an Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) for the best flavor.
• Mayonnaise – balances the dressing and adds creaminess.
• White vinegar – you could also use white wine vinegar if you like a less vinegary ‘bite.’
• Lemon juice – squeeze your own.
• Sugar – the original is fairly sweet. You can use more or less to suit your taste. You could also use artificial sweetener, honey, or agave syrup.
• Dried Italian seasoning
• Dried minced onion or onion powder
• Garlic powder
• Parmesan cheese – please use real Parmesan and not the sawdust in the plastic jar.
• Salt and pepper

How To Store Copycat Olive Garden Dressing?

You can store the leftover dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 10 days. 

I do not recommend freezing, due to the mayonnaise.

Check Out Some Of Our Other Salad Recipes

• Sweet And Sour Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad
• Strawberry Spinach Salad
• Fruit And Nut Winter Salad
• Grilled Romaine Salad
• Panzanella Salad
• Classic Waldorf Salad
• Fried Goat Cheese And Roasted Root Vegetable Salad
• Israeli Salad
• Tropical Beet Salad
• Ultimate Cobb Salad
• Spinach Salad With Bacon Dressing
• Fennel And Orange Salad With Champagne Vinaigrette
• Autumn Salad
• Homemade Chicken Caesar Salad
• Classic Caprese Salad
• Italian Chopped Salad La Scalla Style
• Classic Wedge Salad

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