When dining at Olive Garden, the experience is incomplete without indulging in the Olive Garden Appetizers Menu.
Whether you’re starting your meal with a flavorful bite or simply looking for a shareable snack before your main course, Olive Garden’s appetizers bring Italian-inspired flavors right to your table. From crispy calamari to their famous breadsticks, the menu is packed with delicious options designed to satisfy all tastes.
In this guide, we’ll explore the Olive Garden Appetizers Menu, including pricing, popular dishes, calorie counts, and expert tips to help you make the best choices. Whether you’re dining in, ordering takeout, or sharing with friends, this menu breakdown will ensure you enjoy every bite.
Olive Garden Appetizers Menu with Prices and Calories
Olive Garden offers a wide variety of appetizers to cater to different taste preferences. Below is a breakdown of the most popular options along with their approximate prices and calorie counts.
Classic Appetizers
| Item | Description | Price | Calories |
|---|---|---|---|
| Breadsticks | Unlimited warm garlic butter breadsticks | Free with meal | 140 per stick |
| Stuffed Ziti Fritta | Fried, cheese-stuffed ziti served with marinara | $8.99 | 600 |
| Fried Mozzarella | Breaded mozzarella cheese served with marinara | $9.49 | 800 |
| Calamari | Lightly breaded, fried calamari served with dipping sauces | $12.49 | 670 |
| Shrimp Fritto Misto | Lightly battered shrimp with pepperoncini | $13.49 | 850 |
Shareable Platters
| Item | Description | Price | Calories |
| Lasagna Fritta | Fried lasagna pieces topped with Parmesan cheese | $10.99 | 1,070 |
| Spinach & Artichoke Dip | Creamy blend of spinach, artichokes, and cheese with chips | $10.49 | 900 |
| Toasted Ravioli | Cheese-filled ravioli lightly fried and served with marinara | $9.99 | 770 |
| Sampler Italiano | Combination of Fried Mozzarella, Calamari, and Ravioli | $14.99 | 1,450 |
Prices and calorie counts may vary by location. Always check with your nearest Olive Garden for current details.
Why Olive Garden’s Appetizers Stand Out
1. Perfectly Balanced Flavors
Each appetizer at Olive Garden is crafted with a perfect balance of flavors, combining crispy, creamy, and tangy elements. The secret lies in their signature sauces and high-quality ingredients.
Tip: Try pairing your appetizers with Olive Garden’s house-made marinara or Alfredo sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
Example: The Toasted Ravioli pairs wonderfully with marinara sauce, enhancing the savory, cheesy filling.
2. Great for Sharing
Most appetizers are designed for sharing, making them perfect for family dinners, date nights, or group gatherings.
Tip: Order the Sampler Italiano if you want to try a variety of appetizers in one dish.
Example: Mark and his friends love starting their meals with Lasagna Fritta, as its crispy layers make it a fun and delicious option.
3. Affordable and Generous Portions
Olive Garden’s appetizer portions are generous and budget-friendly, ensuring guests get great value for their money.
Tip: If you’re on a budget, order a shareable appetizer like Spinach & Artichoke Dip to split among 2-3 people.
Example: Lisa often orders Stuffed Ziti Fritta as a snack when she’s craving something cheesy and crispy without breaking the bank.
4. Appetizers Complement the Main Course
Each appetizer is designed to enhance your dining experience, complementing Olive Garden’s famous pasta dishes and entrees.
Tip: Pair Fried Mozzarella with a creamy pasta dish like Chicken Alfredo for a perfect contrast of textures.
Example: Jake loves combining Calamari with his favorite seafood pasta for a full Italian-inspired experience.
Best Olive Garden Appetizers Based on Preference
For Cheese Lovers: Fried Mozzarella & Stuffed Ziti Fritta
If you love cheese, these appetizers are a must-try! The crispy outer layer and gooey cheese center make them a fan favorite.
For Seafood Enthusiasts: Calamari & Shrimp Fritto Misto
Seafood lovers will enjoy these lightly battered and fried appetizers, served with flavorful dipping sauces.
For Large Groups: Sampler Italiano
This option lets you try multiple appetizers in one platter, making it ideal for sharing.
For Those Who Love Dips: Spinach & Artichoke Dip
Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor, this is a crowd-pleaser that pairs perfectly with warm tortilla chips.
FAQs About Olive Garden Appetizers Menu
1. Are Olive Garden’s breadsticks really unlimited?
Yes! When dining in, Olive Garden offers unlimited breadsticks with any meal.
2. What is the best value appetizer at Olive Garden?
The Sampler Italiano is the best value, offering a mix of three popular appetizers for a reasonable price.
3. Can I order appetizers for takeout?
Yes, all appetizers are available for takeout and delivery through Olive Garden’s online ordering system.
4. What is the healthiest appetizer option at Olive Garden?
The Calamari and Spinach & Artichoke Dip are relatively lighter choices compared to fried options.
5. Do appetizers come with dipping sauces?
Yes, most appetizers come with house-made marinara, ranch, or Alfredo dipping sauces.
Final Thoughts
The Olive Garden Appetizers Menu is packed with flavorful, shareable dishes that enhance your dining experience. Whether you’re a cheese lover, seafood enthusiast, or looking for the perfect starter to share, there’s something for everyone.
With generous portions, affordable pricing, and a variety of options, Olive Garden’s appetizers are the perfect way to kick off your meal. Next time you visit, be sure to try one of these delicious starters!
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