Copycat Olive Garden Italian Dressing Recipe
Recreate the zesty, tangy flavor of Olive Garden's signature Italian dressing at home with this easy copycat recipe. Perfect for salads, marinades, or as a dipping sauce for breadsticks, this homemade version brings restaurant quality to your table.
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Every recipe on this site is tested at least 3 times in my home kitchen before publishing. I've been developing sauce recipes for over 8 years, focusing on restaurant-quality results with everyday ingredients. Learn more about me →
Ingredients
- •3/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- •1/4 cup white wine vinegar
- •3 tablespoons water
- •2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- •2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- •1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- •1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- •2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- •3/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- •1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- •1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
- •1/4 teaspoon dried basil
- •1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- •1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- •1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- •Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- 1
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the white wine vinegar, water, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and sugar until smooth.
- 2
Add the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes. Whisk to combine.
- 3
Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously, until the dressing is fully emulsified and slightly thickened.
- 4
Taste the dressing and adjust seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or sugar if needed.
- 5
Transfer the dressing to a jar or bottle with a tight-fitting lid.
- 6
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld. Shake well before serving.
- 7
Serve over crisp salad greens, as a marinade, or as a zesty dip for breadsticks.
Tips & Variations
Pro Tips
- • For the smoothest texture, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese or blitz the dressing in a blender.
- • Letting the dressing chill for at least an hour enhances the flavor and thickens the texture.
- • Shake or whisk well before each use, as homemade dressings naturally separate.
- • Use high-quality olive oil for best flavor.
- • Double the recipe and store in a clean jar for easy salads all week.
Storage
- • Refrigerator: Up to 1-2 weeks in airtight container
- • Freezer: Up to 3 months (thaw overnight in fridge)
- • Best Practice: Store in glass jars for longer freshness
Recipe Variations
- • For a dairy-free version, omit Parmesan and use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
- • Swap white wine vinegar for red wine vinegar for a tangier profile.
- • Stir in 1-2 teaspoons of Dijon mustard for extra depth and creaminess.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does homemade Italian dressing last?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Shake or whisk well before each use.
Can I use apple cider vinegar instead of white wine vinegar?
Yes, apple cider vinegar works well for a slightly sweeter, fruitier tang. Red wine vinegar is also a good substitute.
Is this dressing gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as written. Always check your mayonnaise and Parmesan to ensure they are gluten-free.
Can I make this dressing vegan?
Yes! Substitute vegan mayonnaise and omit the Parmesan or use a vegan Parmesan alternative.
Why does my dressing separate?
Homemade dressings will separate over time. Just shake or whisk before serving to re-emulsify.
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