Irresistibly Delicious Outback Chopped Pecan Salad Dressing Recipe

If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably wondered how to recreate that famous Outback chopped pecan salad dressing recipe right at home. It’s sweet, tangy, nutty, and somehow the perfect complement to fresh greens, crumbled blue cheese, and crunchy onions. Today, we’re diving deep into exactly how to make it, how to use it, and even better—how to customize it to your own taste. Ready? Let’s go!

(First, if you’re into salad recipes and nutritional guidance, here’s a great starting resource on salad nutrition from the Mayo Clinic!)

What Is the Outback Chopped Pecan Salad Dressing Recipe?

Let’s start at the beginning. The Outback chopped pecan salad dressing recipe is a sweet and savory vinaigrette made famous by Outback Steakhouse. You’ve likely tasted it on their Blue Cheese Pecan Chopped Salad, which comes as a side with several of their entrees.

This salad dressing is:

• Slightly sweet, thanks to the sugar and honey
• Tangy from vinegar and Dijon mustard
• Crunchy because of chopped roasted pecans
• Creamy, yet still vinaigrette-based

What makes it stand out is that balance. You get acidity, sweetness, creaminess, and texture in one bite.

The Salad Behind the Dressing: Outback’s Famous Chopped Salad

Before we break down how to make the Outback chopped pecan salad dressing recipe, let’s talk about the salad it’s served with.

Outback Steakhouse pairs this dressing with their Blue Cheese Pecan Chopped Salad, which includes:

• Chopped mixed greens
• Carrots
• Cabbage
• Crumbled blue cheese
• Green onions
• Sweet vinaigrette
• Candied or chopped pecans

Many people confuse this with the Outback wedge salad, but they’re different. The wedge uses iceberg lettuce and a creamy blue cheese dressing. The chopped salad? It’s all about fine textures and that irresistible pecan vinaigrette.

What is Aussie Crunch at Outback Steakhouse?

While we’re on the topic of Outback salads, let’s clarify something. You might’ve heard of the term Aussie Crunch on their menu. What is Aussie Crunch at Outback Steakhouse?

Aussie Crunch refers to the crispy, toasted, sweetened bits—often nuts or onions—used to top salads. In the case of the chopped salad, this usually means those toasted chopped pecans that give the dish its signature crunch. Sometimes, it also includes bits of fried onions or croutons.

So, if you’re aiming to replicate the full experience of the Outback chopped pecan salad dressing recipe, don’t forget the Aussie Crunch!

Why You’ll Love This Homemade Version

Here’s why making your own Outback chopped pecan salad dressing recipe at home is totally worth it:

• You control the sweetness — Less sugar? No problem.
• Gluten-free friendly — Use ingredients that fit your diet.
• Versatility — Use it on any salad, grilled chicken, or even a wrap.
• Freshness — No preservatives, no mystery ingredients.
• Budget-friendly — One batch can dress multiple salads.

Plus, it’s just plain fun to recreate restaurant favorites at home, right?

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a breakdown of everything that goes into a classic Outback chopped pecan salad dressing recipe:

Let’s now dive into how to make it.

How to Make the Outback Chopped Pecan Salad Dressing Recipe (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Gather Ingredients

Set everything on the counter, including a small mason jar or blender.

Step 2: Combine the Base

In a bowl or jar, combine:

• ½ cup olive oil
• ¼ cup white balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons honey (or sugar)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step 3: Mix or Blend

Shake the mason jar vigorously OR blend for 10 seconds. You want everything emulsified.

Step 4: Add Chopped Pecans

Stir in ¼ cup finely chopped roasted pecans. Toast them beforehand for extra flavor!

Step 5: Taste and Adjust

Taste test! Want more tang? Add a splash of vinegar. Need more sweetness? Add a bit more honey.

And there you have it—your very own Outback chopped pecan salad dressing recipe.

Tips, Tricks, and Flavor Variations

Let’s take this classic and make it your own.

Flavor Tweaks:

• Add a splash of orange juice for brightness
• Use maple syrup instead of honey for a fall twist
• Add crumbled bacon if you want a smoky bite

Texture Tips:

• Chop pecans fine for smoother texture
• Add a few toasted walnuts for variety
• Blend half the nuts for a creamier dressing

Storage:

• Keeps in fridge for up to 7 days
• Shake before every use
• Store in a sealed glass container for best flavor

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even simple dressings can go wrong. Here are a few things to watch out for:

1. Using raw pecans – Always toast them first! It deepens the flavor.
2. Over-sweetening – A little honey goes a long way.
3. Skipping mustard – It’s essential for emulsification.
4. Adding nuts too early – Add after shaking so they stay crunchy.
5. Using poor-quality oil – Olive oil makes or breaks this dressing.

Outback Blue Cheese Chopped Salad Nutrition: What to Know

If you’re watching what you eat, you might be wondering about Outback blue cheese chopped salad nutrition. While delicious, it’s not exactly light.

Here’s a rough breakdown (based on the restaurant version):

Total: Around 500–600 calories per serving. Making it at home? You can easily cut this in half by adjusting portions and sugar levels.

For more nutrition tips, check out Delish’s healthy salad swaps.

Where Else Can You Use This Dressing?

The Outback chopped pecan salad dressing recipe isn’t just for one salad. Here’s how else you can use it:

• Grilled Chicken Salad — Perfect with smoky, grilled flavors
• Spinach and Strawberry Salad — Pairs well with fruity sweetness
• Bacon, Lettuce, and Tomato Wraps — Adds tang and crunch
• Blue Cheese and Walnut Bowls — For a double-nutty twist
• Roasted Veggie Bowl — Drizzle over carrots and squash

Other Popular Outback Salad Dressings

Outback has a few beloved salad dressings beyond this one. You might be curious about:

• Outback salad dressing recipe (ranch) — A creamy house-style ranch
• Outback blue cheese vinaigrette recipe — A tangy blue cheese version
• Outback chopped salad dressing — Another name for our beloved pecan vinaigrette
• Outback wedge salad dressing — Often a creamy blue cheese or ranch

For DIY versions of these, check out recipes on AllRecipes!

Complete Guide to the Health & Nutrition of the Outback Chopped Pecan Salad Dressing Recipe

If you’ve ever sat down at Outback Steakhouse and ordered one of their signature salads — especially the ones drizzled with that sweet, tangy, nutty dressing — you’ve likely thought, “This tastes way too good to be healthy.”

The truth? The Outback chopped pecan salad dressing recipe can be surprisingly nutritious — but it depends on how you make it and how much of it you use. When made at home with clean, wholesome ingredients, this dressing becomes a smart, flavorful addition to your salad bowl.

In this in-depth health breakdown, we’ll explore everything from calorie content to diet-friendly variations, and how to make this dressing work for your wellness goals.

What’s Really in the Outback Chopped Pecan Salad Dressing Recipe?

First, let’s unpack the key ingredients you’ll find in a homemade version of the Outback chopped pecan salad dressing recipe:

• Olive oil or vegetable oil
• White balsamic vinegar
• Honey or brown sugar
• Dijon mustard
• Chopped toasted pecans
• Salt, garlic, black pepper

Some variations include a bit of mayonnaise, blue cheese crumbles, or even Greek yogurt for a creamy twist.

These ingredients come together to create a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy, with a satisfying crunch from the nuts.

Nutritional Breakdown: Homemade vs. Restaurant Version

Let’s compare a homemade version of the dressing with the one you’d likely get at Outback Steakhouse:

Homemade wins — especially when you control the sweetener and oil quality. Plus, when you make your own Outback chopped pecan salad dressing recipe, you avoid preservatives and artificial additives.

Ingredient-by-Ingredient Health Benefits

Let’s take a closer look at the main ingredients and what they bring to the table — literally!

Olive Oil (or Avocado Oil)

• Heart-healthy fats (monounsaturated)
• Rich in antioxidants like polyphenols
• Supports cholesterol balance
• Helps with nutrient absorption

Tip: Choose extra virgin olive oil for maximum health perks.

Pecans

• Excellent source of plant-based omega-3 fatty acids
• Contain magnesium, zinc, and fiber
• Support brain health and heart health
• Add healthy fats and a delicious crunch

Use raw or lightly toasted pecans without added salt or sugar.

Honey or Maple Syrup

• Natural sweeteners with antioxidants and minerals
• Less processed than refined sugar
• Use in moderation to avoid blood sugar spikes

Diabetic or keto? Swap with monk fruit or erythritol.

Dijon Mustard

• Adds flavor without sugar or fat
• Contains selenium and magnesium
• Very low in calories
• Balsamic Vinegar (White or Aged)
• Adds acidity and brightness
• May aid in blood sugar control
• Low in calories and carbs

Health Benefits of Using This Dressing on Salads

When paired with fresh, whole ingredients like spinach, kale, romaine, tomatoes, or avocado, the Outback chopped pecan salad dressing recipe enhances not just flavor, but nutrition.

Here’s what you’re getting:

• Fiber (digestive support)
• Healthy fats (satiety and energy)
• Micronutrients like potassium, calcium, and iron
• Antioxidants from both the salad and the dressing

Mental Health Benefits? Yes, Really.

Eating colorful, well-balanced meals — especially those with healthy fats and leafy greens — supports not only your physical health but also your mood and brain function.

According to Harvard Health Publishing, healthy fats (like those in pecans and olive oil) are linked to better mood stability, focus, and even lower anxiety.

So yes — your Outback chopped pecan salad dressing recipe could literally help lift your spirits!

Dietary Modifications: Making It Work for Your Lifestyle

Whatever your dietary preference, you can easily adjust this recipe to fit your needs:

Keto or Low-Carb Version

• Replace honey with keto-friendly sweeteners
• Use full-fat mayo or avocado for richness
• Stick to low-carb veggies like romaine, arugula, and cucumbers

Vegan-Friendly Option

• Use maple syrup instead of honey
• Skip the blue cheese or replace with cashew cheese

Diabetic-Friendly Version

• Skip sugary toppings like candied pecans
• Use apple cider vinegar for added blood sugar control
• Add fiber-rich veggies and a lean protein like grilled chicken

Low-Sodium Version

• Use low-sodium mustard
• Skip a

Healthy Swaps & Ingredient Alternatives

Real-Life Tip from a Dietitian

“Making your own salad dressing at home — especially something like the Outback chopped pecan salad dressing recipe — is a great way to control your ingredients, cut down on preservatives, and still enjoy restaurant-level flavor without the guilt.”
— Kristen H., RD

Watch Out for These Health Pitfalls

Even healthy dressings can derail your goals if you’re not mindful. Avoid these common mistakes:

• Dousing the salad – More dressing doesn’t mean more health. Stick to 2 tablespoons per serving.
• Overloading sugar – Some recipes call for ¼ cup of sugar. That’s excessive!
• Using low-quality oils – Canola or soybean oil may be cheap but are often highly processed.

Studies That Support Homemade Dressings

A 2018 study published in Nutrients found that people who regularly consume homemade meals with healthy fats had better weight control and heart health than those who relied on takeout or processed foods.

Another 2020 review in Frontiers in Nutrition emphasized the role of natural oils, nuts, and vinegar-based dressings in supporting anti-inflammatory diets.

Sample Balanced Salad Bowl with This Dressing

Here’s a quick and healthy Outback-style salad you can make at home:

• 2 cups baby spinach
• ½ cup shredded red cabbage
• ¼ cup grated carrots
• 1 tbsp blue cheese crumbles
• ¼ cup toasted pecans
• 1 grilled chicken breast, sliced
• 2 tbsp Outback chopped pecan salad dressing recipe

Approximate total: 450–500 calories, 12g carbs, 30g fat, 28g protein

Recap: Key Health Benefits at a Glance

Final Thoughts: Making the Outback Chopped Pecan Salad Dressing Recipe at Home

Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or recreating your favorite steakhouse meal, the Outback chopped pecan salad dressing recipe is an absolute winner. It’s sweet, tangy, nutty, and incredibly versatile. By making it yourself, you get to enjoy all the deliciousness with fewer preservatives and total control over the ingredients.

If you’re a fan of Outback salads, especially their chopped or wedge versions, this is a recipe you’ll find yourself coming back to over and over again.

For more restaurant-style salad inspirations, visit Food & Wine’s homemade dressing recipes.

FAQ: Outback Chopped Pecan Salad Dressing Recipe

1. Can I make the Outback chopped pecan salad dressing recipe ahead of time?
Yes! It stays fresh for up to 7 days in the fridge. Just give it a shake before each use.

2. What’s in the Outback chopped pecan salad dressing recipe?
It includes olive oil, white balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and roasted chopped pecans.

3. Is the Outback chopped pecan salad dressing recipe gluten-free?
Yes, if you use gluten-free mustard and vinegar.

4. Can I substitute other nuts in the Outback chopped pecan salad dressing recipe?
Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds work well too.

5. What is Aussie Crunch at Outback Steakhouse?
It’s a crunchy topping—usually candied nuts or crispy onions—used to add texture to salads.

6. How many calories are in the Outback chopped pecan salad dressing recipe?
About 200 calories per 2-tablespoon serving, mostly from oil and pecans.

7. Is the Outback chopped pecan salad dressing recipe vegan?
Only if you skip the honey and use maple syrup instead.

8. Can I make the Outback blue cheese chopped salad dressing at home?
Yes, just add crumbled blue cheese to this pecan vinaigrette base.

9. What’s the difference between the Outback chopped salad dressing and vinaigrette?
They’re the same—just different names for the sweet pecan vinaigrette.

10. Where can I find more recipes like the Outback chopped pecan salad dressing recipe?
Check out Carnival’s food blog for cruise-inspired dishes, including salads and dressings.

Outback Chopped Pecan Salad Dressing

This sweet, tangy, and nutty salad dressing is inspired by the famous Outback Steakhouse chopped pecan vinaigrette. It’s perfect for chopped salads, grilled chicken, wraps, or roasted veggies—and it’s easy to customize to your taste.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 4 minutes mins

10 minutes mins

Total Time 19 minutes mins

Course Salad Dressing

Cuisine American

Servings 8 servings

Calories 180 kcal

Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk or blender
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mason jar or glass container
• Knife and cutting board (for chopping pecans)

Ingredients

  

• ½ cup olive oil
• ¼ cup white balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup for vegan version
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ¼ cup chopped roasted pecans

Instructions

 

• In a mixing bowl or jar, add olive oil, vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
• Whisk well or blend until the mixture is emulsified and smooth.
• Stir in the chopped roasted pecans.
• Taste and adjust sweetness, acidity, or seasoning if needed.
• Store in an airtight jar in the fridge. Shake before each use.

Notes

Toast pecans before adding for extra flavor.

Dressing lasts up to 7 days in the refrigerator.

Add crumbled blue cheese for a richer, Outback-style version.

Great with spinach salads, grilled meats, or even grain bowls.

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