Description
This Olive Garden Salad Dressing Copycat recipe recreates the iconic Italian-style salad dressing with a perfect balance of tangy vinegar, fresh herbs, and creamy Parmesan. Easy to make in just 10 minutes, this versatile dressing adds vibrant flavor to any salad and can be customized to suit vegan or dairy-free preferences.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Dressing Ingredients
- 3/4 cup olive oil (extra virgin or neutral oil of choice)
- 1/2 cup white wine vinegar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (finely grated)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley (finely chopped)
- 1 clove garlic (finely minced)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp chili flakes (red pepper flakes)
- 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 tsp pepper (or to taste)
- 1 tbsp honey (or agave syrup for vegan option)
- 1 tbsp mayonnaise (optional, or plain Greek yogurt, or vegan yogurt for vegan/dairy-free)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: Add all the ingredients to a mason jar or salad dressing bottle, cover securely, and shake vigorously until everything is evenly combined. Alternatively, place all ingredients into a medium bowl and whisk thoroughly until smooth and well blended.
- Taste and Adjust: Dip a piece of lettuce into the dressing to taste and adjust seasonings according to your preference. To reduce acidity, add more honey or agave; to reduce tanginess, add more olive oil or mayonnaise; to increase tanginess, add more vinegar.
- Refrigerate: Cover the dressing and refrigerate. It can be used immediately but allowing it to rest in the fridge for a few hours will help the flavors meld and develop deeper taste.
- Serve and Enjoy: Before serving, shake or stir the dressing well to recombine ingredients. Pour over your favorite salad and enjoy the classic Olive Garden flavor at home.
Notes
- For a vegan or dairy-free version, substitute Parmesan with a vegan cheese alternative and use agave syrup instead of honey. Replace mayonnaise with vegan yogurt or omit it entirely.
- The dressing keeps well in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- Adjust the chili flakes quantity to control heat level.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor.
- Shake the dressing before each use as ingredients may naturally separate.
