Following a vegan diet does not mean you have to skip dining out. Many restaurant chains, including Olive Garden, offer menu items that can be enjoyed without animal-based ingredients.
While Olive Garden is best known for its cheesy pastas and creamy sauces, there are still a handful of vegan-friendly dishes you can order with little to no modification.
Here are the seven best vegan options at Olive Garden so you can plan your next visit with confidence.
1. Breadsticks
Olive Garden’s signature breadsticks are completely vegan, with no modifications needed.
Despite their buttery flavor, they do not contain actual butter. Instead, they are brushed with a garlic-infused oil that is entirely plant-based.
Since they are unlimited and served with most meals, they are a great addition to any vegan order.
2. Minestrone Soup
Olive Garden’s minestrone soup is the only vegan soup on the menu, but it is a great option if you want something hearty.
It contains a mix of beans, pasta, tomatoes, and vegetables, making it a flavorful and satisfying choice.
Some locations may serve minestrone soup with basil pesto, which contains dairy. Be sure to ask for it without pesto to keep it vegan.
3. House Salad (With Modifications)
Olive Garden’s house salad is not vegan by default, but it can be customized.
To make it vegan, request:
- No croutons (they contain dairy)
- No house dressing (it contains dairy and eggs)
- Olive oil and balsamic vinegar as a dressing alternative
This simple modification allows you to enjoy a fresh salad without any animal-based ingredients.
4. Steamed Broccoli
For a vegan-friendly side, steamed broccoli is the only option available at Olive Garden.
Although it is a basic dish, it pairs well with other vegan-friendly menu items, such as spaghetti with marinara sauce. Ordering steamed broccoli alongside a pasta dish can help create a more balanced and filling meal.
5. Spaghetti with Marinara Sauce
The only fully vegan entrée on the Olive Garden menu is spaghetti with marinara sauce.
This dish includes plain spaghetti noodles topped with classic marinara sauce.
Since Olive Garden does not offer vegan cheese or plant-based protein, this dish can be quite simple on its own. For a more complete meal, consider ordering steamed broccoli as a side and enjoying breadsticks as well.
6. Build Your Own Pasta (Limited Vegan Choices)
Olive Garden’s Build Your Own Pasta option allows for some customization, but vegan choices are limited.
Vegan Pasta Options
- Spaghetti
- Angel hair
- Fettuccine
- Cavatappi
The gluten-free pasta option contains eggs, so it is not vegan.
Vegan Sauce Options
- Marinara sauce
- Tomato sauce
The Alfredo, creamy mushroom, and five-cheese marinara sauces all contain dairy and should be avoided.
Vegan Toppings
- Steamed broccoli
Since Olive Garden does not offer plant-based protein or dairy-free cheese, this option is best for those looking for a simple pasta dish.
7. Vegan-Friendly Drinks
Although Olive Garden’s food menu has limited vegan options, there are plenty of drinks to choose from.
Vegan-friendly drinks include
- Soft drinks such as Coca-Cola, Sprite, and lemonade
- Coffee and tea (availability of plant-based milk varies by location)
- Wine and beer (selections vary, so check with your server)
Some locations may offer non-dairy milk alternatives for coffee and tea, so it is always worth asking.
Final Thoughts
While Olive Garden does not have a dedicated vegan menu, there are still a few plant-based meals you can enjoy.
The best options include breadsticks, minestrone soup, spaghetti with marinara sauce, and steamed broccoli. You can also modify the house salad and create a custom pasta dish using the Build Your Own Pasta option.
To ensure your meal is completely vegan, double-check ingredients with your server, as recipes may vary by location.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Olive Garden’s Creamy Mushroom Sauce Vegan?
No, Olive Garden’s creamy mushroom sauce is not vegan. It contains both dairy and eggs, making it unsuitable for a plant-based diet.
Does Olive Garden Have Vegan Salad Dressing?
No, none of Olive Garden’s salad dressings are vegan. All contain dairy or eggs. The best alternative is to request olive oil and balsamic vinegar as a simple dressing.
