When it comes to Italian dressing, few brands are as iconic as Olive Garden. Their signature creamy and tangy dressing has become a staple in many households, and for good reason – it adds a rich and savory flavor to any dish. But why stop at just using it as a salad dressing? We’ve gathered 19 mouth-watering recipes that showcase the versatility of Olive Garden’s Italian dressing, from classic pasta salads to grilled chicken and vegetables, and even savory bread dipping sauces. Whether you’re a long-time fan of the brand or looking for new ways to use your favorite store-bought dressing, these recipes are sure to inspire you to get creative in the kitchen!
Classic Olive Garden Italian Dressing Copycat
Get ready to taste the authentic flavor of Italy with this simple recipe that mimics the classic Olive Garden Italian dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup red wine vinegar
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 4 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine red wine vinegar, olive oil, parsley, basil, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Blend the mixture on high speed until it’s smooth and well combined, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
4. Transfer the dressing to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is quick and easy, with no cooking required. Simply blend and serve.
Grilled Chicken Salad with Olive Garden Dressing
A refreshing twist on classic chicken salad, this recipe combines the smoky flavor of grilled chicken with the tangy zip of Olive Garden’s signature dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup Olive Garden Italian Dressing
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Grill chicken breast for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Let cool.
3. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, and parsley.
4. Slice grilled chicken into strips and add to the salad.
5. Drizzle Olive Garden Italian Dressing over the top and toss to coat.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Olive Garden Dressing Pasta Salad
Transform ordinary pasta salad into an extraordinary treat with this easy and delicious recipe that combines the flavors of Olive Garden’s signature dressing.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (bowtie or penne work well)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber slices
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup Creamy Olive Garden Dressing (store-bought or homemade)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, olives, feta cheese, and parsley.
3. Pour in the Creamy Olive Garden Dressing and toss gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (cooking pasta only)
Marinated Vegetable Medley with Italian Dressing
Elevate your vegetable game with this flavorful and colorful medley, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup Italian dressing
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together Italian dressing and olive oil.
2. Add the sliced bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes to the bowl. Toss to coat with the marinade.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours to allow the vegetables to marinate.
5. Just before serving, garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Olive Garden Dressing Bread Dipping Sauce
Savor the taste of Italy with this easy-to-make dressing bread dipping sauce, inspired by Olive Garden’s signature flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon prepared Italian dressing
– 1 teaspoon grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, Italian dressing, Parmesan cheese, and garlic powder. Mix until smooth.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This sauce is ready to use straight from the refrigerator.
Zesty Italian Dressing Shrimp Skewers
Elevate your summer gatherings with this easy and flavorful appetizer. Succulent shrimp, infused with the bold flavors of Italian dressing, will leave your guests wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup Italian dressing
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together Italian dressing, olive oil, garlic, and lemon zest.
3. Add shrimp to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Thread marinated shrimp onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Brush with any remaining marinade and season with salt and pepper.
6. Grill skewers for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Caprese Salad with Olive Garden Dressing Drizzle
Savor the simplicity of this classic Italian-inspired salad, featuring fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil, elevated by a drizzle of creamy Olive Garden dressing.
Ingredients:
– 3 large tomatoes, sliced
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup Olive Garden Italian Dressing
Instructions:
1. Arrange tomato slices on a large plate or platter.
2. Top with mozzarella cheese slices.
3. Sprinkle basil leaves over the cheese.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the salad, then sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Drizzle Olive Garden Italian Dressing over the salad in a zigzag pattern.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional basil if desired.
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Olive Garden Dressing Marinated Steak Tips
Elevate your steak game with this simple and flavorful recipe that combines the tanginess of Olive Garden’s signature dressing with the tenderness of grilled steak tips.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef steak tips (such as sirloin or ribeye)
– 1/2 cup Olive Garden Italian Dressing
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together Olive Garden dressing, olive oil, garlic, and parsley.
2. Add the steak tips to the marinade, turning to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove steak from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off.
4. Grill steak for 4-6 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
5. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Roasted Potatoes with Italian Dressing Glaze
Roasted Potatoes with Italian Dressing Glaze Recipe
Elevate your potato game with this simple yet flavorful recipe! Tender roasted potatoes smothered in a tangy Italian dressing glaze make for the perfect side dish or snack.
Ingredients:
• 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch wedges
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup Italian dressing
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Toss potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper until coated.
4. Spread potatoes on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until potatoes are tender and lightly browned.
6. While potatoes roast, mix Italian dressing with 1 tablespoon of water to thin it out slightly.
7. Remove potatoes from oven and brush with the Italian dressing glaze.
8. Return potatoes to oven and roast for an additional 5-10 minutes or until glaze is caramelized.
9. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
Grilled Zucchini with Olive Garden Dressing
Grilled Zucchini with Olive Garden Dressing Recipe
This recipe brings together the flavors of grilled zucchini and creamy Olive Garden dressing for a delicious side dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup Olive Garden Italian Dressing
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together Olive Garden dressing and olive oil.
3. Add zucchini slices to the bowl and toss to coat with the dressing mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill zucchini for 3-4 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
6. Remove from grill and garnish with fresh parsley or basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Olive Garden Dressing Chicken Wings
Olive Garden Dressing Chicken Wings: A Twist on a Classic!
Get ready to elevate your snack game with this mouthwatering recipe that combines the tangy zip of Olive Garden dressing with crispy, juicy chicken wings.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds chicken wings
– 1/4 cup Olive Garden Italian dressing
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together Olive Garden dressing, butter, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken wings to the marinade and toss to coat evenly.
4. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray with cooking spray. Arrange chicken wings on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until crispy and cooked through.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Olive Garden Dressing Chicken Wings!
Antipasto Platter with Italian Dressing Dip
Start your meal off right with a colorful and flavorful antipasto platter, featuring a tangy Italian dressing dip to bring it all together.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed olives (such as Kalamata, green, and black)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni
– 1/2 cup sliced salami
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 cup Italian dressing dip (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Arrange the olives, cherry tomatoes, pepperoni, and salami on a large platter or board.
2. Sprinkle the feta cheese and parsley over the top of the meats and vegetables.
3. Serve the Italian dressing dip in a small bowl alongside the antipasto.
Cooking Time: None! This platter is ready to go straight away.
Olive Garden Dressing Bruschetta Topping
Add a flavorful twist to your bruschetta with this easy-to-make Olive Garden Dressing Bruschetta Topping.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup Olive Garden Italian Dressing
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and Olive Garden Italian Dressing until well combined.
2. Add the minced garlic and stir until smooth.
3. Stir in chopped parsley.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Tips:
Use this topping on toasted bread, such as baguette slices or crostini, for a delicious appetizer or snack. You can also use it as a dip for vegetables or crackers. Enjoy!
Herb-Crusted Salmon with Italian Dressing
A flavorful and aromatic twist on traditional salmon recipes, this dish combines the richness of salmon with the brightness of herbs and the tanginess of Italian dressing.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp Italian dressing
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together parsley, dill, salt, and pepper.
3. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the top of each fillet with olive oil.
5. Sprinkle the herb mixture evenly over each fillet.
6. Drizzle Italian dressing over the herbs (about 1/2 tsp per fillet).
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Olive Garden Dressing Tuna Pasta Salad
A creamy and savory twist on traditional tuna pasta salad, this recipe combines the flavors of Olive Garden’s signature dressing with albacore tuna, pasta, and fresh vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked pasta (such as bow tie or penne)
– 1 can albacore tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup Olive Garden Dressing (or store-bought equivalent)
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine tuna, mayonnaise, and Olive Garden Dressing. Mix well to combine.
3. Add cooked pasta, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and parsley to the tuna mixture. Toss gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None required, as this recipe is a cold salad.
Stuffed Bell Peppers with Italian Dressing
A flavorful twist on the classic stuffed bell pepper recipe, this dish combines the sweetness of bell peppers with the tanginess of Italian dressing.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound ground beef or turkey
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1/2 cup Italian dressing
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef or turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the chopped onion, garlic, cooked rice, Italian dressing, and oregano to the skillet. Cook until the mixture is heated through.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the meat mixture and top with shredded mozzarella cheese (if using).
6. Place the peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Olive Garden Dressing Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Transform your Brussels sprouts into a creamy, savory side dish inspired by Olive Garden’s signature dressing!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 tablespoons Olive Garden Italian Dressing (or store-bought alternative)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until coated.
3. Spread the sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
5. While the sprouts are roasting, whisk together Olive Garden Italian Dressing and 1 tablespoon of water in a small bowl.
6. After the sprouts have roasted for 15-18 minutes, remove from oven and brush with the dressing mixture.
7. Return to the oven and roast for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the dressing is caramelized.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Grilled Portobello Mushrooms with Italian Dressing
Elevate your appetizer game with this easy and flavorful recipe that combines the earthy taste of portobello mushrooms with the tanginess of Italian dressing.
Ingredients:
– 4 large portobello mushrooms, stems removed and caps sliced 1/2 inch thick
– 1/4 cup Italian dressing
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a shallow dish, whisk together Italian dressing and olive oil.
3. Add the mushroom slices to the marinade, turning to coat evenly. Let sit for 10-15 minutes.
4. Grill the mushrooms for 3-4 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes
Olive Garden Dressing Caesar Salad Twist
Add a twist to the classic Caesar salad with this Olive Garden-inspired dressing and croutons.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup homemade or store-bought Caesar dressing (such as Olive Garden’s signature recipe)
– 4-6 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1/2 cup crumbled Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup homemade croutons (see below for recipe)
– 1/2 cup freshly ground black pepper
Homemade Croutons Recipe:
– 1/2 loaf Italian bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Toss bread cubes with olive oil and salt until evenly coated.
3. Spread on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown.
4. Allow croutons to cool completely before using.
5. In a large bowl, combine chopped romaine lettuce, Parmesan cheese, and homemade croutons.
6. Drizzle Olive Garden-style Caesar dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
7. Season with freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (including crouton preparation)
Summary
Get inspired by Olive Garden’s iconic Italian dressing! This collection of 19 creamy recipes puts a twist on classic dishes and adds a rich, tangy flavor to new favorites. From copycat dressing recipes to pasta salads, grilled chicken, and even bread dipping sauces, there’s something for every taste. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a show-stopping appetizer, these Olive Garden-inspired recipes are sure to impress. So go ahead, drizzle that dressing and get ready to savor the flavor!
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