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Instructions:
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, white wine vinegar, and olive oil until smooth. This will form the creamy and tangy base of your dressing.
- Add Seasonings:
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, sugar, lemon juice, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder. These ingredients add the signature flavors that make Olive Garden dressing so beloved.
- Taste and Adjust:
- Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Add more sugar for sweetness, more vinegar for tang, or more garlic powder for a bolder flavor. A pinch of salt and a dash of pepper will bring all the flavors together.
- Chill:
- For the best flavor, refrigerate the dressing for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. If you can, let it sit overnight for an even richer taste.
- Serve:
- Drizzle the dressing over your favorite salad (especially a classic Italian salad), and enjoy! It also works wonderfully as a dip for breadsticks or veggies.
Tips and Variations for Your Copycat Olive Garden Salad Dressing
- Add Fresh Garlic: If you prefer fresh garlic over garlic powder, feel free to mince 1-2 cloves and add them to the dressing for an extra punch of flavor.
- Swap the Mayo: For a lighter version, you can replace the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or sour cream. This will give the dressing a creamy texture while cutting down on fat.
- Make It Spicy: If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to give the dressing a spicy kick.
- Use Fresh Herbs: While dried Italian seasoning is convenient, fresh herbs like basil, oregano, and parsley will elevate the flavor. Just finely chop them and stir into the dressing.
- Make It Dairy-Free: To make this dressing dairy-free, omit the Parmesan cheese and use a dairy-free mayo alternative. You can also try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
How to Use Copycat Olive Garden Salad Dressing
While this dressing is perfect for salads, its uses go far beyond that! Here are a few other ways you can enjoy this tangy dressing:
- As a Marinade: Use this dressing as a marinade for grilled chicken, steak, or vegetables. The tangy acidity helps tenderize the meat while adding fantastic flavor.
- As a Dip: It makes a great dip for crispy breadsticks, roasted vegetables, or even chicken nuggets. The creamy texture pairs perfectly with crispy or salty foods.
- On Pasta Salad: Toss this dressing with pasta and vegetables to make a delicious pasta salad. It’s an easy side dish for potlucks or family gatherings.
- Drizzle on Sandwiches or Wraps: Use it as a spread for sandwiches or wraps for an extra burst of flavor. It works especially well with turkey, chicken, or Italian deli meats.
Final Thoughts: A Homemade Twist on a Restaurant Favorite
This Copycat Olive Garden Salad Dressing recipe brings the iconic restaurant flavor into your home with ease. It’s a simple and delicious way to recreate the taste of Olive Garden salads, and once you try it, you’ll never go back to store-bought versions. Whether you’re using it on a fresh salad, as a marinade, or as a dip, this homemade dressing is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Best of all, it’s versatile, customizable, and perfect for meal prepping. Give it a try today and enjoy a little taste of Olive Garden from the comfort of your own home!
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