Does Olive Garden Have Salmon? A Look at Their Herb-Grilled Salmon

When you think of Olive Garden endless breadsticks, pastas and Italian classics likely come to mind first. But you may be surprised to learn that salmon has joined the menu at the popular casual dining chain. Known for its classic Italian fare, Olive Garden now offers herb-grilled salmon as a lighter, healthier option.

Introducing Herb-Grilled Salmon at Olive Garden

Olive Garden’s menu has grown over the past few years to include more than just traditional Italian dishes. Part of this menu evolution involved introducing herb-grilled salmon. This dish is served at dinner and has a tender 6 oz salmon fillet that has been seasoned and grilled to perfection. It gives guests a fresh, flavorful fish option beyond chicken or beef.

The herb-grilled salmon showcases Olive Garden’s culinary creativity beyond pastas It combines the light flavors of salmon with their trademark Italian herb blend The salmon provides a lower-calorie alternative for health-conscious diners. And it brings some coastal flair to their landlocked Italian menu.

Nutrition Facts on Olive Garden’s Salmon

According to the Olive Garden website, a 6 oz salmon fillet contains approximately:

• 250 calories
• 34g protein
• 12g fat
• 10g carbs

The herb-grilled salmon delivers ample lean protein to keep you full along with the heart-healthy omega-3s found in salmon. At just 250 calories, it makes for one of Olive Garden’s lighter menu choices. The salmon provides a satisfying main course without tipping the calorie scales.

How Olive Garden Prepares Their Herb-Grilled Salmon

Olive Garden follows a specific salmon grilling process to achieve optimum flavor:

• They use fresh Atlantic salmon fillets delivered regularly to ensure quality

• The fillets are brushed with Olive Garden’s signature Italian herb blend

• Salmon is grilled over an open flame to get nice char marks

• It’s cooked until moist and flaky inside but slightly charred outside

• Grilling imparts a delicious smoky flavor into the salmon

• A squeeze of lemon right before serving adds a touch of brightness

This cooking method allows the salmon’s natural flavor to shine while infusing Italian-inspired flavors.

Pairing Sides with Olive Garden’s Salmon

Olive Garden’s herb-grilled salmon entree comes with a choice of soup or salad and pasta or potatoes. Recommended pairings include:

• Minestrone soup or House salad

• Asparagus sautéed in olive oil

• Risotto with sautéed mushrooms

• Herb-roasted potatoes

The lighter sides complement the salmon beautifully. I’d suggest avoiding heavy alfredo sauce or cheese-laden pastas with it. Focus on olive oil-dressed vegetables, salads, and grains.

Customer Reviews of Olive Garden’s Salmon

Despite being an unconventional menu item for Olive Garden, their herb-grilled salmon rates very well with customers:

• “I was so happy to find a filling, low-carb option like the grilled salmon. It really exceeded my expectations!”

• “The salmon had an amazing smoky char but was still moist inside. And the lemon flavor was the perfect touch.”

• “I never would have thought to order fish at Olive Garden but the salmon was excellent.”

• “The signature herb seasoning gave a nice Italian flavor to the salmon. Delicious and unexpected.”

Based on feedback, Olive Garden has succeeded in putting an Italian spin on simple grilled salmon. Diners seem delighted by this lighter yet extremely flavorful alternative to traditional heavy Italian fare. It fills a niche on the menu for customers seeking more balanced options.

Why Salmon Works Well on Olive Garden’s Menu

Introducing herb-grilled salmon was a smart menu decision for Olive Garden for several reasons:

• Increased variety – More protein and seafood options appeal to different tastes and diets.

• Health-conscious diners – Nutritious salmon attracts customers focused on low-carb, lighter fare.

• Flavor contrast – The mildness of salmon balances Olive Garden’s typically rich dishes.

• Seasonal offerings – Salmon fits into summer menu specials or seasonal promotions.

• On-trend ingredient – Salmon is growing exponentially in popularity as a menu item.

While a departure from their classics, salmon is now a staple that brings welcome variety to Olive Garden’s menu.

Ordering Salmon at Your Next Olive Garden Visit

If you want to change up your usual Olive Garden order, give their herb-grilled salmon a try. It provides a refreshing take on salmon by infusing Italian herbal essence into a simply grilled fillet. Olive Garden’s salmon is delicately seasoned to let the fish itself shine. The quick char from grilling adds just enough smoky depth.

While you’ll still find traditional, indulgent Italian dishes at Olive Garden, the herb-grilled salmon is a genuine lighter option. Enjoy salmon’s lean protein, omega-3s, and antioxidant nutrients without the carbo-load of pasta. For a balanced Italian-inspired meal, pair salmon with minestrone and asparagus sautéed in olive oil. Or fully embrace the fresh flavors of Italy and order salmon with risotto and herb-roasted veggies on the side. Just know that Olive Garden’s flavorful take on herb-grilled salmon will bring delightful coastal character to your next Italian dinner.