Best Romaine Lettuce Salad (with Olive Garden Dressing)
Romaine lettuce salad is light, crunchy, refreshing, and full of that creamy, garlicky dressing that makes every bite delicious!
Servings 6
Ingredients
Romaine Salad Ingredients
- 2 bunches romaine hearts lettuce
- 20 cherry or grape tomatoes
- 4 baby cucumbers
- ¼ red onion
- ⅓ cup grated parmesan cheese
- ⅓ cup Olive Garden dressing
Instructions
- Thoroughly wash the romaine lettuce and pat each leaf dry with a paper towel. Trim off the thick center rib, then slice the lettuce into 1-inch pieces.
- Wash the cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onion. Pat them dry, then chop into bite-size pieces.
- Place the romaine lettuce in a large bowl and layer the prepared vegetables on top.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, drizzle with the dressing, and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
- Serve the salad right away for the best crunch and flavor. Enjoy as a light meal or a fresh side dish with your favorite main course.
Notes
- Choose crisp romaine with firm, bright green leaves and no brown spots. Store it wrapped in a paper towel inside a sealed bag to keep it fresh longer.
- Wash and dry the lettuce well so the dressing clings and the salad stays crunchy.
- Tear the leaves by hand instead of slicing to preserve texture and prevent browning.
- Make your dressing from scratch for the best flavor, whether it’s a creamy Caesar, tangy vinaigrette, or Italian-style dressing.
- Add texture and flavor layers with croutons, toasted nuts, bacon bits, or shaved cheese, plus fresh herbs if you like.
- Customize with extra veggies or protein like peppers, olives, grilled chicken, or shrimp.
- Dress right before serving to keep the romaine crisp and avoid soggy salad.