If you’re searching for delicious plant-based meals, you’re in for a treat! Olive Garden, the home of endless breadsticks and hearty Italian flavors, offers several vegan options to satisfy your cravings. From soups to pasta and even a customizable salad, navigating the menu is easier than you might think.
In this guide, we’ll uncover all the Olive Garden vegan options, share tips for customizing your meal, and ensure you can enjoy a satisfying, plant-based dining experience.
Table of Contents
- What’s Vegan at Olive Garden?
- Customizing Your Meal for a Plant-Based Diet
- FAQs About Olive Garden Vegan Options
What’s Vegan at Olive Garden?
Surprisingly, Olive Garden’s menu offers several vegan-friendly dishes! From appetizers to entrees, here’s what you can enjoy:
1. Breadsticks
Good news: Olive Garden’s famous breadsticks are 100% vegan! Made with simple ingredients like flour, water, yeast, and salt, these golden delights are brushed with garlic-infused oil rather than butter. Pair them with marinara sauce for a perfect starter.
2. Minestrone Soup
Warm up with a bowl of Minestrone Soup, which is packed with fresh vegetables, beans, and pasta in a savory tomato-based broth. It’s a wholesome and hearty option that’s entirely plant-based.
3. House Salad (with Modifications)
Olive Garden’s signature House Salad can be made vegan by skipping the croutons and house dressing. Instead, ask for olive oil and vinegar as a light, zesty dressing. The salad is loaded with fresh lettuce, tomatoes, red onions, and pepperoncini peppers for a refreshing side dish.
4. Vegan Pasta Options
Olive Garden offers a variety of vegan-friendly pasta options that can be paired with their dairy-free sauces. Here’s a quick rundown:
- Vegan Pastas: Angel Hair, Fettuccine, Rigatoni, Small Shells, and Spaghetti.
- Dairy-Free Sauces: Marinara, Tomato Sauce, or a simple Olive Oil drizzle.
Note: Avoid the gluten-free Rotini, as it contains eggs.
5. Vegan Sides
Keep your meal simple and healthy by adding these sides to your order:
- Steamed Broccoli: A nutrient-packed, vegan-friendly side.
- Grapes: A light, naturally sweet snack for an extra touch of freshness.
6. Vegan-Friendly Beverages
Quench your thirst with these options:
- Fountain drinks
- Flavored iced teas or brewed tea
- Lemonade
- Coffee
Pro Tip: Alcoholic options vary by location. Check your vegan beer, wine, and liquor choices on Barnivore.com before ordering.
Customizing Your Meal for a Plant-Based Diet
To make your dining experience even better, here are some tips for customizing your meal at Olive Garden:
1. Add More Protein
Olive Garden doesn’t currently offer vegan protein options like tofu or plant-based meat, but you can bring your own! Prepare a portion of vegan meatballs or beans at home to complement your pasta dish.
2. Bring Your Own Vegan Cheese
Craving a cheesy topping? Pack your favorite plant-based cheese to sprinkle over your pasta or salad.
3. Enhance Your Salad
If olive oil and vinegar aren’t your thing, bring your own vegan dressing. A creamy dill or tangy French dressing can add a delightful twist to your salad.
4. BYO Vegan Dessert
Sadly, Olive Garden doesn’t offer vegan desserts. To satisfy your sweet tooth, bring a treat like no-bake caramel squares or a vegan cookie.
See the full Olive Garden menu here!
FAQs About Olive Garden Vegan Options
Q: Are Olive Garden breadsticks vegan?
A: Yes! The breadsticks are dairy-free and made with vegan-friendly ingredients.
Q: Is the salad dressing at Olive Garden vegan?
A: No, the house dressing contains dairy. Opt for olive oil and vinegar instead.
Q: What sauces at Olive Garden are vegan?
A: Marinara, Tomato Sauce, and Olive Oil are vegan-friendly options.
Q: Can I get a plant-based kids’ meal?
A: Yes! Order pasta with tomato sauce (choose fettuccine, shells, or spaghetti) and pair it with a vegan side like steamed broccoli or grapes.
Final Thoughts on Olive Garden Vegan Options
While the vegan offerings at Olive Garden might not be extensive, there’s plenty to enjoy if you know what to order. With a little creativity and customization, you can savor a satisfying Italian-inspired meal without compromising your plant-based lifestyle.
Next time you’re dining out, remember these tips and enjoy your vegan-friendly feast at Olive Garden!
Have you tried any of these vegan dishes at Olive Garden? Let us know your favorites in the comments below!
Read more >> 8 Options for Healthy Food at Olive Garden