In a medium bowl or mason jar, combine the dressing ingredients: olive oil, mayonnaise, vinegar, lemon juice, sugar, Italian dressing mix, and black pepper. Whisk or shake until smooth.

In a large serving bowl, combine the salad ingredients: garden salad mix, sliced Roma tomatoes, pepperoncini, black olives, and red onion.

Add croutons to the salad mixture, making sure they are evenly distributed.

Drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to coat.

Top the salad with grated Romano cheese before serving.

For best results, prepare in advance but add dressing and croutons just before serving to keep freshness.