Ingredients
Creating an authentic Olive Garden Salad requires a few key ingredients that come together seamlessly. Each component plays a vital role, much like the cherished memories that form the mosaic of our lives. Here’s what you’ll need:
– Fresh Romaine lettuce: The backbone of our salad, providing a crisp base that supports all other ingredients.
– Cherry tomatoes: Their sweetness adds a delightful contrast to the tangy dressing.
– Red onion: Thinly sliced for a bit of sharpness and color.
– Black olives: For a touch of briny depth.
– Peperoncini peppers: These add a subtle heat that dances on the palate.
– Italian dressing: A homemade or store-bought option that ties all the flavors together.
– Croutons: For that perfect crunch, reminiscent of the ones Mama Lou baked from leftover bread.
– Grated Parmesan cheese: A final flourish that elevates the salad to new heights.
Each ingredient is a nod to the timeless recipes passed down through generations, embodying the essence of family meals shared with love.
Instructions
Creating this Olive Garden Salad is a journey back to the basics, where simplicity reigns supreme and every step is infused with the joy of creation. Here is how you can bring this delightful dish to life:
1. **Prepare the Lettuce:** Begin by washing and drying the Romaine lettuce thoroughly. Tear it into bite-sized pieces and place it in a large salad bowl.
2. **Add the Vegetables:** Halve the cherry tomatoes and slice the red onion thinly. Add these to the bowl along with the black olives and peperoncini peppers.
3. **Dress the Salad:** Drizzle your chosen Italian dressing over the salad, tossing gently to ensure every leaf is coated.
4. **Add the Finishing Touches:** Top the salad with croutons and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
5. **Toss and Serve:** Give the salad one final toss to combine all the ingredients, and serve immediately to enjoy its freshest flavors.
Each step is a tribute to the culinary lessons imparted by Mama Lou, who taught us that the best dishes are created with heart and a dash of love.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International