Olive Garden Appetizer Menu: Start Your Meal with Irresistible Italian Flavors
The Olive Garden appetizer menu offers a delicious range of starter dishes perfect for any meal, from light salads and soups to warm breadsticks with savory dips. Known for its comforting flavors and variety, Olive Garden’s appetizers provide a perfect beginning to any dining experience. Let’s explore the menu in detail to help you find the best choices, including recommendations based on user ratings and popular favorites.
| Appetizer | Price | Description | Calories |
|---|---|---|---|
| WEEKDAY Lunch Special: Soup, Salad & Breadsticks | $9.99 | Enjoy a special lunch deal with Olive Garden’s house salad, choice of soup, and warm breadsticks. Available Mon-Fri, 11am-2:30pm. | 400 – 520 cal |
| Soup, Salad & Breadsticks | $12.99 | A classic combo that includes the famous Olive Garden house salad, homemade soup, and breadsticks – great for a light dinner! | 400 – 520 cal |
| Homemade Soups | $8.99 | Choose from four signature soups: Chicken & Gnocchi, Pasta e Fagioli, Minestrone (Vegan), and Zuppa Toscana (Gluten-Free). | 110 – 230 cal |
| Famous House Salad | $7.99 | The iconic house salad with fresh lettuce, olives, tomatoes, peppers, and croutons, served with Italian dressing on the side. | 290 cal |
| Dipping Sauces with Breadsticks (V) | Starting at $5.49 | Warm marinara, alfredo, or five cheese marinara sauce served with freshly baked breadsticks. | 90 – 870 cal |
| Breadsticks (V) | Starting at $4.99 | Soft, warm breadsticks available by the dozen or half-dozen with instructions for baking at home. | 140 cal each |
Recommended Appetizers: Customer Favorites
- Soup, Salad & Breadsticks Combo
A go-to choice for many Olive Garden fans, the Soup, Salad, and Breadsticks combination is perfect for lunch or a light meal. It pairs well with a side of dipping sauce and is often celebrated for its balance of fresh salad, warm soup, and iconic breadsticks. Many customers rate this as a top pick for both value and flavor. - Homemade Soups
The homemade soups are loved for their rich flavors, especially the Zuppa Toscana, a creamy, savory blend of Italian sausage, kale, and potatoes. The Chicken & Gnocchi soup, with its tender dumplings and creamy texture, also receives rave reviews. - Dipping Sauces with Breadsticks
The marinara, alfredo, and five-cheese marinara sauces are popular choices to pair with Olive Garden’s famous breadsticks. Customers often recommend trying the five-cheese marinara for a rich, indulgent dip or the classic alfredo for a creamier option. - Breadsticks
Olive Garden’s signature breadsticks are a customer favorite, often highlighted for their soft texture and delicious garlic butter flavor. For parties or gatherings, customers can order a dozen or more, making it a convenient choice to enjoy at home.
Popular Questions About the Olive Garden Appetizer Menu
1. What soups are available on the Olive Garden appetizer menu?
Olive Garden offers four soup options: Chicken & Gnocchi, Pasta e Fagioli, Minestrone (vegan), and Zuppa Toscana. Each brings unique Italian-inspired flavors, from creamy to broth-based.
2. Can I customize my appetizer order?
Yes, customers can select specific soups and add dipping sauces for breadsticks. Breadsticks are also available in multiple quantities, perfect for groups or sharing.
3. Are there vegetarian and gluten-free options on the appetizer menu?
Yes, the Minestrone soup is vegan, and the Zuppa Toscana is made with gluten-free ingredients. Breadsticks and dipping sauces are also vegetarian-friendly. Check out our full Olive Garden menu to see more dishes!
Whether you’re stopping in for a quick bite or starting a full Italian meal, the Olive Garden appetizer menu has something for everyone to enjoy.