Olive Garden Appetizers: A Tasty Start to Your Meal
When you’re hungry and looking for something delicious to start your meal, appetizers are the perfect choice. Many of us wish for the best appetizers because they want tasty, shareable bites before their main course, when they plan to visit a restaurant. These small dishes are great for satisfying cravings while waiting for your entrée. Whether you love cheesy, crispy, or saucy bites, Olive Garden has something for everyone.
Olive Garden appetizers are some of the most popular menu items, loved for their rich flavors and generous portions. From crispy fried mozzarella to creamy spinach-artichoke dip, there’s a variety to choose from. These starters are perfect for sharing with friends and family. Plus, they pair perfectly with Olive Garden’s famous breadsticks!
Olive Garden Appetizers with Prices
Here are the Olive Garden appetizers along with prices and calories details to help you choose better. From Fried Mozzarella to Shrimp Fritto Misto, each appetizer is tasty and satisfying.
You can also explore the complete Olive Garden menu.
Best Olive Garden Appetizers You Can Try
🍽️ Fried Mozzarella
Golden-fried mozzarella sticks that are crispy on the outside and deliciously melty inside. Served with warm marinara sauce for dipping — the ultimate cheesy comfort bite.
Want more classics? Check out their Classic Entrées too.
🍝 Stuffed Ziti Fritta
Crispy ziti bites stuffed with creamy cheese. Perfectly golden on the outside, warm and gooey on the inside. Pair them with marinara or Alfredo — either way, you can’t go wrong!
🍞 Dipping Sauces with Breadsticks
Olive Garden’s famous warm breadsticks paired with your choice of marinara, Alfredo, or other savory dips. Simple, satisfying, and perfect for sharing.
Love variety? Explore their full Sides and Sauces menu.
🦑 Calamari
Perfectly fried squid rings served with marinara and spicy ranch — crispy, flavorful, and made for sharing. If you love seafood, Olive Garden’s calamari is a must-try.
Dive into their full Seafood Menu for more ocean-inspired dishes!
🍖 Meatballs Parmigiana
Two giant meatballs baked in marinara and topped with melty cheese. Rich, savory, and utterly satisfying — the perfect pick for comfort food lovers.
If you love rich, savory flavors, this is the appetizer for you. Craving more cheesy goodness? Check out their Cheesy Menu or explore Pasta and Pizza selections!
🥬 Spinach-Artichoke Dip
Warm, creamy, and loaded with cheese, spinach, and artichoke. Served with crispy chips — every bite is rich, gooey, and comforting. A timeless crowd favorite.
🍰 Lasagna Fritta
Lasagna, but with a twist! Breaded, fried, and stuffed with cheesy pasta goodness. Served with both marinara and Alfredo for double the flavor.
🍤 Shrimp Fritto Misto (Currently Unavailable)
A crispy seafood mix of fried shrimp and veggies like bell peppers. Served with marinara and spicy ranch. Crunchy, savory, and just a little spicy — always a favorite when available.
🥟 Toasted Ravioli
Little pasta pockets filled with meat and cheese, then fried until perfectly crispy. Served with marinara for dipping — the perfect balance of crunchy and creamy.
🥖 Breadsticks
Warm, soft, and always satisfying. Enjoy them plain or with marinara, Alfredo, or your favorite sauce. Sometimes simple is simply perfect.
🥂 Perfect Pairings for Olive Garden Appetizers
🧀 Fried Mozzarella
Pair it with: A chilled glass of sweet iced tea or refreshing lemonade to balance the crispy, cheesy goodness.
🍝 Stuffed Ziti Fritta
Perfect with: A fresh, crisp side salad — the crunch and greens make the cheesy bites even better.
🥬 Spinach-Artichoke Dip
Best enjoyed with: A light white wine or a fizzy soda — the perfect contrast to the creamy richness.
🍖 Meatballs Parmigiana
Level it up with: Warm garlic bread and a hearty small soup on the side — a comfort combo done right.
🍰 Lasagna Fritta
Delicious with: A crisp Caesar salad and a tall glass of iced tea — light meets indulgent perfectly.
🥟 Toasted Ravioli
Pairs perfectly with: A refreshing soda or crisp sparkling water — just the right balance for this crispy treat.
Check out the Olive Garden Pairings to find the best pairing for your meal.
FAQ’S
Conclusion
Olive Garden appetizers are the perfect way to start your meal with flavor and fun. Whether you love cheesy, crispy, or saucy bites, there’s something for everyone. These starters are great for sharing and make any meal more enjoyable. Next time you visit, don’t skip these tasty treats!