Olive Garden Appetizer Menu: Delicious Starters for Every Occasion
The Olive Garden appetizer menu offers a perfect blend of Italian flavors to kickstart any meal. From fresh salads and savory soups to the famous breadsticks, these appetizers are satisfying on their own or paired with entrées. Here’s a breakdown of each appetizer, including prices, calories, and what makes them unique, to help you decide the best choice for your next visit to Olive Garden.
| Appetizer | Price | Description | Calories |
|---|---|---|---|
| WEEKDAY Lunch Special: Soup, Salad & Breadsticks | $9.99 | A weekday lunch combo with Olive Garden’s house salad, choice of homemade soup, and warm garlic breadsticks, available Mon-Fri, 11am-2:30pm. | 400 – 520 cal |
| Soup, Salad & Breadsticks | $12.99 | The signature combo of house salad, choice of soup, and breadsticks, available for a satisfying dinner option. | 400 – 520 cal |
| Homemade Soups | $8.99 | Four options to choose from: Chicken & Gnocchi, Pasta e Fagioli, Minestrone (Vegan), and Zuppa Toscana (Gluten-Free). | 110 – 230 cal |
| Our Famous House Salad | $7.99 | Fresh salad with lettuce, olives, tomatoes, peppers, and croutons, served with Olive Garden’s signature Italian dressing on the side. | 290 cal |
| Dipping Sauces with Breadsticks (V) | Starting at $5.49 | Choose from marinara, alfredo, or five-cheese marinara sauce served with freshly baked breadsticks. | 90 – 870 cal |
| Breadsticks (V) | Starting at $4.99 | Olive Garden’s famous warm breadsticks, perfect on their own or with dipping sauces. Can be ordered by the dozen or half dozen. | 140 cal each |
Recommended Starters: Fan Favorites on the Olive Garden Appetizer Menu
- Soup, Salad & Breadsticks
This classic combo is a favorite for those who enjoy a lighter meal or want to share with friends. The combination of Olive Garden’s fresh house salad, warm soup, and soft breadsticks makes it a well-balanced option that’s both filling and flavorful. - Homemade Soups
Olive Garden’s soups are a highlight of the appetizer menu, and the Zuppa Toscana is a fan favorite, featuring Italian sausage, kale, and potatoes in a creamy broth. The Chicken & Gnocchi soup is also a top choice, known for its comforting blend of roasted chicken and soft Italian dumplings. - Dipping Sauces with Breadsticks
If you’re a breadstick lover, adding a dipping sauce elevates the experience. Try the creamy alfredo or five-cheese marinara for a richer flavor. The dipping sauces add variety and complement the freshly baked breadsticks perfectly.
Common Questions About Olive Garden’s Appetizer Menu
1. What soups are available in the Olive Garden appetizer menu?
The menu offers four soups: Chicken & Gnocchi, Pasta e Fagioli, Minestrone (vegan), and Zuppa Toscana (gluten-free). Each one brings different flavors, from creamy to hearty and broth-based.
2. 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, making Olive Garden’s appetizers versatile for dietary needs. You can see the full list of them by accessing our Olive Garden menu.
3. Can I order breadsticks in bulk for events or gatherings?
Absolutely! You can order a half-dozen or a dozen breadsticks to enjoy at home or for special occasions. Olive Garden even provides baking instructions if you want to recreate the fresh-from-the-oven taste.
Whether you’re stopping in for a quick bite or planning a meal with friends and family, Olive Garden’s appetizer menu provides a delightful range of flavors that are sure to please.