Which sauce is typically associated with Italian-American cuisine at Olive Garden?

Marinara sauce is a classic Italian-American sauce that features prominently in dishes at Olive Garden. It is made primarily from tomatoes, garlic, onions, and a variety of herbs, making it a staple for pasta dishes such as spaghetti marinara and as a dipping sauce for breadsticks. Its rich flavor and versatility align closely with the essence of Italian-American cuisine, characterized by hearty tomato-based sauces and comforting pasta dishes.

In the context of the other sauces mentioned, buffalo sauce is known for its spice and is more commonly associated with chicken wings and certain bar foods, while sweet and sour sauce is typically linked to Chinese cuisine. Barbecue sauce, on the other hand, is primarily used in American grilling and barbecuing, which would not resonate with the traditional Italian flavors that Olive Garden aims to present. Thus, marinara sauce stands out as the quintessential choice reflecting Italian-American culinary traditions within the Olive Garden menu.