Homemade Olive Garden House Dressing Recipe
Bring the taste of Olive Garden into your home with our delightful Olive Garden House Dressing, a beloved classic that elevates any salad. This iconic dressing not only enhances the flavor of a fresh garden salad but also doubles as a marinade for grilled vegetables or a dip for your favorite breadsticks. The richness and tanginess of this dressing will undoubtedly make any meal special, making it a must-have for salad lovers and home cooks alike.
This dressing is easy to make and customizable to suit your taste preferences. Whether you prefer it sweeter, spicier, or herbier, you can adjust the ingredients to enhance the flavors according to your liking. Follow our simple recipe to recreate the authentic Olive Garden flavors right in your own kitchen!
Ingredients
To whip up this delicious Olive Garden House Dressing, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 8 ounces of Paul Newman’s Vinegar and Oil Dressing: This serves as the base and provides the necessary tang and richness.
- 1 clove garlic, peeled and minced: Garlic adds an incredible depth of flavor and aroma to the dressing.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil: This herb brings a slightly sweet and aromatic quality that complements the other ingredients.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Oregano adds warmth and a hint of earthiness.
- 3 packages Sweet and Low (or 1 tablespoon sugar): This will balance the acidity of the vinegar and oil with a touch of sweetness.
Instructions
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
- Start by gathering your ingredients. In the bottle of Paul Newman’s Vinegar and Oil Dressing, add the minced garlic, dried basil, dried oregano, and either the Sweet and Low or sugar. Using the dressing bottle for this step simplifies the process and minimizes cleanup.
Step 2: Shake Well
- After adding all the ingredients, securely cap the bottle. Shake vigorously for about 30 seconds to ensure all ingredients are thoroughly combined. Shaking well is essential for blending the flavors of the dried herbs and the sweetener into the dressing.
Step 3: Refrigerate
- Once mixed, place the dressing in the refrigerator and allow it to chill for 24 hours before using it. Refrigeration helps the flavors meld, resulting in a more flavorful dressing. This step is crucial for enhancing the overall taste —don’t skip it!
Step 4: Serve
- After letting the dressing chill, shake it again before serving. This helps redistribute the ingredients, ensuring a balanced flavor in every bite.
How to Use Your Dressing
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On Salads: Drizzle over a fresh garden salad consisting of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and carrots for a delightful burst of flavor. You can also add grilled chicken, cheese, or nuts to enhance your salad experience.
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Marinade for Vegetables: Pour some of the dressing over a medley of your favorite vegetables — like bell peppers, zucchini, and onions — before grilling. The dressing will infuse the vegetables with a tangy and garlicky flavor, making them irresistible.
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Dip for Breadsticks: Use it as a dip for warm breadsticks or artisan bread. The savory flavors will complement the bread perfectly, creating a restaurant-style experience at home.
Nutritional Information
This dressing is not only delicious but also relatively low in calories, especially if you use Sweet and Low as your sweetener. A standard serving (about two tablespoons) contains:
- Approximately 50 calories (using Sweet and Low)
- 0 grams of fat
- 10 grams of carbohydrates
Storage Tips
Store any leftover dressing in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Always shake it before each use to remix the ingredients.
Customization Options
Feel free to experiment with the recipe to suit your preferences:
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Add More Herbs: If you enjoy a more pronounced herb flavor, try incorporating fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. Fresh herbs can significantly elevate the taste.
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Spice It Up: For a kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture.
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Creamy Variation: For a creamy alternative, add a few tablespoons of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt to the dressing. This will create a thicker consistency ideal for dipping.
Final Thoughts
The Olive Garden House Dressing is not just a dressing; it’s a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a casual weeknight meal, this dressing adds a touch of restaurant-quality flavor to your dishes. Make it a staple in your home kitchen, and savor the delightful flavors of Olive Garden any night of the week! Enjoy your homemade Olive Garden House Dressing!
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Disclaimer:
This recipe is intended for informational purposes only. Please check for any allergies or dietary restrictions before preparing the dish. The creator of this recipe is not responsible for any adverse reactions or consequences resulting from its use. Always exercise caution when handling kitchen tools and ingredients. Enjoy cooking!
