What Makes the Dressing Taste Right
The bottled Olive Garden dressing is creamy-looking but thin, tangy and slightly sweet. Mayonnaise gives the emulsion, white vinegar and lemon the tang, a touch of corn syrup the sweetness and gloss, and Parmesan and Romano the salty bite.
Ingredients
- ½ cup (115 g) mayonnaise
- ⅓ cup (80 ml) white vinegar
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp light corn syrup (or 1 tbsp sugar)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan
- 2 tbsp grated Pecorino Romano
- ½ tsp garlic salt
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- 2–3 tbsp water, to thin
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Whisk. Whisk all the ingredients except the water in a bowl until smooth.
- Thin. Add water a tablespoon at a time until it's pourable but still coats a spoon.
- Chill. Refrigerate at least 30 minutes so the herbs soften and the flavors blend.
Tips for Restaurant-Style Results
- Use real mayonnaise, not salad dressing spread.
- Shake or whisk again before serving; it settles.
- Make it a day ahead; it tastes better.
How to Make the Olive Garden Salad
Toss iceberg and romaine with sliced red onion, Roma tomato, black olives, pepperoncini and croutons. Grate Romano or Parmesan over the top, then dress lightly just before serving. That's the Famous House Salad.
Other Ways to Use the Dressing
- Pasta salad: toss with rotini, salami, mozzarella, tomatoes and olives.
- Chicken: marinate chicken breasts for 2 hours, or try our crockpot Olive Garden chicken.
- Sandwiches: drizzle on Italian subs instead of oil and vinegar.
Homemade vs. the Restaurant Version
At Olive Garden, Famous House Salad costs about — and has 150 calories per serving by the restaurant's published nutrition. The bottled Signature Italian dressing is sold in many grocery stores; this version tastes very close and costs less per cup.
Storing and Reheating
- Refrigerate in a sealed jar up to 1 week.
- Don't freeze; mayonnaise-based dressings separate.
Olive Garden Italian Salad Dressing: Questions People Ask
Can you buy Olive Garden dressing in stores?
Yes. Olive Garden Signature Italian Dressing, including a light version, is sold in many U.S. grocery stores.
What is in the Olive Garden salad?
Iceberg and romaine lettuce, tomatoes, red onion, black olives, pepperoncini and croutons, topped with grated cheese and Italian dressing.
Is Olive Garden dressing vegetarian?
This copycat is vegetarian if your cheese is made without animal rennet. Check the restaurant's allergen guide for theirs.
How long does homemade Italian dressing last?
About one week in the fridge in a sealed jar.