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Copycat Olive Garden Salad recipe: Mediterranean Salad with croutons

Olive Garden copycat salad in a bowl - Step into the enchanting world of Mediterranean flavors with our tantalizing Copycat Olive Garden Salad recipe. Inspired by the freshness and vibrancy of the renowned Olive Garden salad, this homemade version promises to transport your taste buds to a culinary oasis. Crisp mixed salad greens, sweet cherry tomatoes, savory black olives, and the delightful kick of pepperoncini peppers come together in a symphony of colors and textures. Crowned with a homemade dressing that perfectly mimics Olive Garden's iconic taste, this salad is not just a side dish – it's an experience. Let's embark on a journey of Mediterranean magic, where every forkful brings the zest of Italy to your table. Get ready to savor the essence of Olive Garden right in your own kitchen.
Step into the enchanting world of Mediterranean flavors with our tantalizing Copycat Olive Garden Salad recipe. Inspired by the freshness and vibrancy of the renowned Olive Garden salad, this homemade version promises to transport your taste buds to a culinary oasis. Crisp mixed salad greens, sweet cherry tomatoes, savory black olives, and the delightful kick of pepperoncini peppers come together in a symphony of colors and textures.
Crowned with a homemade dressing that perfectly mimics Olive Garden's iconic taste, this salad is not just a side dish – it's an experience. Let's embark on a journey of Mediterranean magic, where every forkful brings the zest of Italy to your table. Get ready to savor the essence of Olive Garden right in your own kitchen.
Munchyesta.com
Prep Time 10 minutes
Serving Size 4 people

Ingredients

Copycat Olive Garden Mediterranean salad Ingredients:

For the Salad:

  • 8 cups (250g) mixed salad greens e.g., iceberg lettuce, romaine, and arugula
  • 1 cup (150g) cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1/2 cup (30 olives) black olives sliced
  • 1/2 cup (80g/½onion) red onion thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup (60g/8peppers) pepperoncini peppers sliced
  • 1/2 cup (25g) croutons

For the Dressing:

  • 1/2 cup (120ml) extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) red wine vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/3 teaspoon Salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon Ground Black Pepper adjust to taste
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese optional

Instructions

How to make Olive Garden Copycat Salad Instructions:

  • In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, cherry tomatoes, black olives, red onion, pepperoncini peppers, and croutons.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
  • Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to ensure an even coating.
  • If desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the salad.
  • Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious copycat Olive Garden salad!
  • Feel free to customize the salad with additional toppings like shredded carrots, cucumbers, or any other favorite salad ingredients.

Notes

Quick and Easy Homemade Italian Seasoning Mix

Creating your own Italian seasoning at home is a breeze, and it adds an aromatic burst of flavor to your dishes. Here's a simple recipe using common herbs you likely have in your pantry:

Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon dried basil
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • 1 tablespoon dried thyme
  • 1 tablespoon dried rosemary
  • 1 tablespoon dried marjoram
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon dried sage
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/3 teaspoon Salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, adjust to taste (optional)

How to make homemade Italian seasoning Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, combine all the dried herbs and spices.
2. Mix well until evenly distributed. If you prefer a finer texture, you can use a spice grinder or mortar and pestle to break down larger herbs.
3. Taste and adjust the salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes to suit your preferences.
4. Transfer the Italian seasoning mix to an airtight container, and store it in a cool, dark place.
Now you have a versatile Italian seasoning blend ready to enhance your pasta sauces, dressings, roasted vegetables, or any Italian-inspired dish you're whipping up in the kitchen. Enjoy the vibrant flavors of this homemade mix!

Simple Homemade Croutons Recipe

Crunchy Bliss: Quick and Easy Homemade Croutons

Get ready to transform your salad with our Quick and Easy Homemade Croutons recipe. Transforming ordinary bread into golden nuggets of flavor, these croutons are the perfect crunchy companions for your salads or soups. With just a handful of ingredients and a dash of creativity, you'll elevate your dishes with the irresistible allure of freshly baked goodness. Let's dive into the world of homemade croutons, where simplicity meets scrumptiousness in every crispy bite. Get ready to turn your kitchen into a crouton-making haven!

Olive Garden copycat croutons Ingredients:

  • 4 cups (250g) bread cubes (approximately 1-inch in size)
  • 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon Salt 
  • 1/3 teaspoon ground black pepper 

How to make homemade Olive Garden croutons Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the bread cubes with melted butter and olive oil until evenly coated.
3. Sprinkle garlic powder, dried thyme, dried rosemary, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper over the bread cubes. Toss again to ensure even seasoning.
4. Spread the seasoned bread cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes or until the croutons are golden brown and crisp. Be sure to toss them halfway through to ensure even baking.
6. Remove from the oven and let them cool completely before storing in an airtight container.
Now you have delightful homemade croutons ready to add a crunch to your salads or soups. Feel free to customize the seasoning to suit your taste preferences!