Copycat Olive Garden Salad Dressing

#### **Instructions:**

1. **Whisk the Base Ingredients:**
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the mayonnaise, white wine vinegar, and olive oil. Whisk them together until they form a smooth, creamy base for your dressing.

2. **Add the Flavors:**
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, and sugar. These ingredients give the dressing its signature herby and savory flavors.

3. **Taste and Adjust:**
Taste the dressing and season with salt and pepper to your preference. If you prefer a more tangy dressing, you can add the optional tablespoon of lemon juice to brighten up the flavor.

4. **Let it Rest:**
Cover the bowl and refrigerate the dressing for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld together. The longer it sits, the more robust the flavor will become.

5. **Serve:**
Once the dressing has had time to chill, give it a good stir and pour it over a bed of fresh greens. Toss with your favorite salad toppings, and enjoy that Olive Garden-inspired flavor right at home!

#### **Tips for Perfecting Your Copycat Olive Garden Salad Dressing:**

– **Customize the Thickness:** If you find the dressing too thick for your liking, simply thin it out with a little water or extra olive oil. Start with 1-2 teaspoons and adjust as needed.

– **Parmesan Quality:** Using freshly grated Parmesan cheese will elevate the flavor, but if you only have pre-grated Parmesan, that works too.

– **Storage:** Store any leftover dressing in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for about 5-7 days, making it a great option for meal prep or as a go-to dressing throughout the week.

– **Salad Pairing:** This dressing is great on a classic green salad with mixed lettuce, tomatoes, olives, cucumbers, and croutons—just like the Olive Garden version! You can also drizzle it over pasta salads, roasted vegetables, or even use it as a dip for breadsticks.

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### **Why You’ll Love This Copycat Olive Garden Salad Dressing**

The best part about this copycat dressing is that it captures all the bold, rich flavors of Olive Garden’s original without the need to leave your home. It’s a great alternative to store-bought dressings, as you can control the ingredients, customize it to your taste, and make a big batch for multiple meals.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, preparing a quick weeknight dinner, or simply craving something familiar, this dressing will take your salads to the next level!

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Give this Copycat Olive Garden Salad Dressing recipe a try, and you’ll find yourself skipping the restaurant and making your favorite salad right in your own kitchen. It’s the perfect addition to any meal and will quickly become a staple in your home! Enjoy!