Craving that incredible garlic salad you get at your favorite steakhouse? Stop dreaming and start making! This copycat recipe delivers all the garlicky goodness and creamy deliciousness you love, without the restaurant price tag. It’s surprisingly easy to whip up, making it a perfect addition to your weeknight dinners or a show-stopping side for special occasions. This is one of those delicious dishes that elevates any meal, and trust me, the homemade touch makes all the difference. Get ready to experience the magic of Doc's Steakhouse Garlic Salad in your own kitchen!
Ingredients: A Simple List for a Flavorful Salad
- 1 (16-ounce) head romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup crumbled bacon (optional, but highly recommended!)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (or more, if you're a garlic lover!)
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions: Easy Steps to Garlic Salad Perfection
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Prep the Veggies: Wash and chop the romaine lettuce. Halve the cherry tomatoes. If using bacon, cook until crispy and crumble.
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Whisk the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, olive oil, minced garlic, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, oregano, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. More garlic? Go for it! A little extra vinegar for tang? Absolutely!
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Combine and Serve: In a large bowl, combine the chopped lettuce, halved tomatoes, crumbled bacon (if using), and Parmesan cheese. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat. Serve immediately to enjoy the freshest flavors.
Tips and Tricks for the Best Garlic Salad Ever
- Garlic Power: For an extra intense garlic flavor, try roasting the garlic cloves before mincing them. Simply wrap them in foil and roast at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes.
- Bacon Bliss: While optional, the crispy bacon adds a wonderful smoky saltiness that perfectly complements the creamy garlic dressing.
- Make it Ahead: You can prepare the dressing ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, it's best to toss the salad with the dressing just before serving to prevent the lettuce from wilting.
- Lettuce Options: Feel free to substitute other types of lettuce, such as butter lettuce or spring mix, for a different texture and flavor.
Variations: Spice it Up or Keep it Classic
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a little heat.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with other herbs like parsley, chives, or thyme for a unique twist.
- Cheese Please: Try different cheeses, like crumbled blue cheese or shaved Asiago, for a variation in flavor and texture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
This information is an estimate and will vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: 18-22g
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
This easy recipe for Doc's Steakhouse Garlic Salad is sure to become a family favorite. It's a quick dinner side, a perfect potluck contribution, or just a delicious and satisfying salad for any occasion. Enjoy!