Looking for guilt-free options at your favorite Italian chain? The Olive Garden healthy menu in 2025 proves you can enjoy great flavor without overloading on calories. And if you’re pairing your meal with something special, don’t miss their handpicked wine options that complement lighter dishes beautifully. Even better — smart diners are combining health with savings by checking out the latest Olive Garden specials. Want the full picture? Explore the entire Olive Garden menu to see how balanced eating fits right into their classic lineup.
Why Olive Garden’s Healthy Menu Deserves Attention
Olive Garden isn’t just about Fettuccine Alfredo anymore. With customers becoming more health-conscious, the brand has responded by offering a wider variety of meals that are lower in calories, lighter on carbs, and higher in nutrition — without compromising on taste.
Whether you're watching your weight, managing blood sugar, or simply trying to make better choices, the 2025 healthy menu has you covered.
Best Healthy Items to Order at Olive Garden
Here’s a breakdown of top-performing healthy options from the current 2025 lineup — each reviewed for calories, protein, and flavor.
1. Herb-Grilled Salmon
Calories: ~590 | Protein: 45g
A grilled salmon filet seasoned with Italian herbs and served with steamed broccoli. Rich in omega-3s and low in carbs — a heart-healthy favorite.
2. Zoodles Primavera
Calories: ~450 | Protein: 12g
Zucchini noodles tossed with colorful vegetables in a light tomato basil sauce. Vegetarian and gluten-sensitive friendly.
3. Grilled Chicken Margherita
Calories: ~550 | Protein: 50g
Grilled chicken topped with tomatoes, mozzarella, basil pesto, and lemon garlic sauce. Served with Parmesan-crusted zucchini.
4. Minestrone Soup
Calories: ~110 | Protein: 5g
Packed with veggies and beans, this broth-based soup is one of the lowest-calorie starters on the menu — and it’s vegan.
5. House Salad (No Dressing or Light Dressing)
Calories: ~70–150
A mix of lettuce, tomatoes, olives, onions, and pepperoncini. Go light on the dressing or skip the croutons to keep it low-cal.
Tips for Eating Healthy at Olive Garden
Even when you’re ordering something that isn’t strictly labeled “healthy,” you can still make better choices with a few smart tricks.
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Ask for sauces on the side
Olive Garden’s sauces can be heavy — controlling your portion helps reduce calories fast. -
Choose grilled over fried
Skip fried calamari and opt for grilled options like salmon or chicken. -
Sub veggies for pasta
Zoodles or steamed broccoli can be substituted in many entrées for a lower-carb meal. -
Watch the breadsticks
One breadstick contains about 140 calories — enjoy in moderation.
Are Olive Garden’s Light Choices Actually Filling?
Yes — and that’s part of the surprise. While “healthy” often gets confused with “small portions,” Olive Garden’s lighter items are still satisfying. Protein-rich entrées like the Grilled Chicken Margherita and Salmon help you feel full longer, while options like Minestrone Soup or the Salad are great for starting light.
Many meals even come with a choice of side, so pairing a healthy entrée with a lighter soup or salad creates a complete, balanced experience.
Vegetarian & Vegan-Friendly Options
Looking for meat-free meals? Olive Garden offers several vegetarian and vegan-friendly choices that can be both satisfying and nutrient-rich.
Vegetarian Picks:
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Eggplant Parmigiana (ask for lighter cheese)
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Zoodles Primavera
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Cheese Ravioli with Marinara (lighter in calories than Alfredo)
Vegan-Friendly Items:
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Minestrone Soup
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House Salad (no croutons or cheese, oil and vinegar dressing)
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Steamed Broccoli or side vegetables
Pro tip: Ask your server to customize — they’re usually happy to adjust sauces, cheese, or sides.
Gluten-Sensitive Choices
Although Olive Garden isn’t a certified gluten-free kitchen, they do offer gluten-sensitive pasta and clearly marked options.
Here are a few you can try:
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Grilled Chicken with Gluten-Free Rotini
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Gluten-Free Rotini with Marinara
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Herb-Grilled Salmon with Vegetables
If you have celiac disease, it’s best to inform the staff and proceed with caution due to cross-contamination risks.
Kids’ Healthier Options
Even younger diners can eat lighter. Olive Garden’s kids' menu includes grilled chicken, pasta with tomato sauce, and small portions of vegetables upon request.
Encouraging healthy eating habits from a young age is easier when they have options that still taste great.
Final Thoughts: Can You Really Eat Healthy at Olive Garden?
Absolutely. The 2025 Olive Garden healthy menu shows that the chain is serious about making space for all types of diners — not just pasta lovers. Whether you're counting calories, managing macros, or avoiding gluten, there's a way to enjoy Italian comfort food without overdoing it.
It’s all about knowing what to look for and customizing your plate to match your needs. So next time you head to Olive Garden, skip the guilt and grab something that nourishes both your body and your taste buds.
FAQs – Olive Garden Healthy Menu
Q: What is the healthiest thing to order at Olive Garden?
A: The Herb-Grilled Salmon with broccoli is one of the healthiest options, with under 600 calories and high protein.
Q: Can I order low-carb meals at Olive Garden?
A: Yes. Ask for zucchini noodles or substitute vegetables for pasta.
Q: Are there any vegan items on the Olive Garden menu?
A: The Minestrone Soup and modified House Salad are vegan-friendly.
Q: Does Olive Garden have gluten-free pasta?
A: Yes, they offer gluten-free rotini, but cross-contamination is possible.
Q: How do I make a regular Olive Garden dish healthier?
A: Ask for grilled proteins, light sauces, and veggie sides — and limit breadsticks.
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