Easy Pasta House Salad Recipe Like Your Favorite Restaurant
Growing up in St. Louis, the Pasta House Salad was always on our table. It mixed crisp iceberg and robust romaine lettuce with a tangy red wine vinegar dressing. This flavor mix is unforgettable.
To this day, the Pasta House Salad reminds me of the restaurant’s warm welcome. The staff made everyone feel like a valued regular.
Table of Contents
- The Pasta House Salad is a beloved St. Louis classic featuring a mix of iceberg and romaine lettuce.
- The signature dressing combines olive oil, red wine vinegar, and grated Parmesan cheese.
- This salad is famous for its fresh ingredients and easy preparation. A great choice for family gatherings or a quick meal at home.
- You can easily make this recipe at home. This lets you enjoy the real Pasta House flavor in your kitchen.
- Customization options and variations allow you to tailor the salad to your personal preferences.
The History of St. Louis Pasta House Company
The Pasta House Company has been a favorite in St. Louis since 1974. Local restaurateurs started it. People recognize this family-friendly spot for its quality, consistency, and great service.
The Restaurant’s Legacy Since 1974
For over 40 years, the Pasta House Company has served delicious Italian food. Their menu has classic pasta dishes and new creations. They use fresh ingredients and traditional recipes, winning the hearts of locals and visitors.
Why This Salad Became Famous
The Pasta House Company’s famous house salad is a must-try. It has a mix of iceberg and romaine lettuce, artichoke hearts, and pimentos. This salad’s unique taste has made it a favorite in St. Louis for years.
The Pasta House Company’s commitment to a great dining experience has made their house salad famous. A key part of the Pasta House experience exists. This salad has helped make the restaurant a beloved St. Louis spot.
Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Pasta House Salad
The Pasta House salad is a favorite in St. Louis. People know it for its fresh, tasty mix of ingredients. A few key parts come together to make it perfect.
The salad starts with crisp iceberg lettuce and hearty romaine lettuce. These lettuces form a strong base. They hold up well against the salad’s dressing.
Artichoke hearts add a unique, tangy flavor. They mix well with the lettuce.
Other important ingredients include black olives, pimentos, and grated Parmesan cheese. Olives and pimentos add color and a savory taste. Parmesan cheese brings a salty, nutty flavor.
The salad’s dressing is simple but effective. It uses extra virgin olive oil and red wine vinegar. This lets the fresh veggies take center stage.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Iceberg Lettuce | 2 cups |
| Romaine Lettuce | 2 cups |
| Artichoke Hearts | 1 cup |
| Black Olives | 1/2 cup |
| Pimentos | 1/4 cup |
| Grated Parmesan Cheese | 1/2 cup |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 1/4 cup |
| Red Wine Vinegar | 2 tablespoons |
Knowing the key ingredients of the Pasta House salad lets you make it at home. You can bring a taste of St. Louis to your kitchen.
Understanding the Two-Lettuce Blend
The Pasta House salad is made with a mix of iceberg lettuce and romaine lettuce. This blend makes the salad interesting to eat and good for you.
Iceberg Lettuce Benefits
Iceberg lettuce is known for its crunchy texture. Not the most nutritious, but it adds a nice contrast. Its mild taste lets the other salad ingredients stand out.
Romaine Lettuce Selection
Romaine lettuce adds a bit of bitterness and is full of vitamins A and K. Choose leaves that are bright green and firm.
Proper Washing and Chopping Techniques
Washing and drying the lettuce is key for a great Pasta House salad. It keeps the leaves crisp and prevents them from getting soggy. Cut the leaves into pieces that are a bit bigger than usual.
By mixing iceberg lettuce and romaine lettuce in a large bowl, the Pasta House salad is a hit. A mix of textures and tastes that everyone loves exists.
Mastering the Signature Dressing
Making the perfect Pasta House Salad starts with the dressing. A mix of olive oil, red wine vinegar, and grated parmesan cheese exists. This combo makes your salad taste like it’s from a restaurant.
Using top-notch ingredients is key. Pick a extra virgin olive oil with a strong, fruity smell. Choose a red wine vinegar that’s just right in acidity. And don’t forget the freshly grated parmesan cheese for a rich, savory taste.
To make the dressing, mix the olive oil, vinegar, and parmesan in a mason jar. Close it and shake hard. This makes sure everything is well mixed.
Then, add some freshly ground black pepper. It adds a nice heat and depth to the dressing.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 1/2 cup |
| Red Wine Vinegar | 1/4 cup |
| Grated Parmesan Cheese | 1/4 cup |
| Freshly Cracked Black Pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
With this easy dressing, you can make the Pasta House Salad at home. Play with the amounts to get the flavor just right. Enjoy the fresh, lively taste.
Improving the Pasta House salad begins with the right vegetable prep. Taming red onions and handling artichoke hearts with care is key. Each step is crucial for a perfect mix of flavors and textures.
Taming Red Onion’s Bite
Red onions bring a nice crunch and zesty taste to the salad. But, their strong flavor can be too much. To soften this, soak the sliced red onions in cold water for 10-30 minutes. This trick makes their sweetness come out more.
Artichoke Heart Preparation
Jarred or canned artichoke hearts are essential for the Pasta House salad. Drain them well and cut into quarters. This makes them fit perfectly with the other veggies.
Proper Pimento Integration
Pimentos add a mild sweetness and bright color to the salad. Make sure to drain and chop the pimentos well. This way, their unique flavor spreads evenly across the salad.
Follow these tips to master red onions, artichoke hearts, and pimentos. You’ll soon make the Pasta House salad just like home.
Pasta House Salad Recipe Step by Step
Making the famous Pasta House salad at home is simple. Just a few steps and you can enjoy its bold flavors and fresh crunch. Let’s explore how to make the perfect Pasta House Salad.
- Begin by mixing chopped iceberg and romaine lettuce in a large mixing bowl. This mix gives the salad a great balance of crispness and texture.
- Add drained and halved artichoke hearts, sliced black olives, and diced pimentos to the bowl. These add a tasty flavor and look to the salad.
- Thinly slice a red onion and mix it in the salad. The red onion adds a nice bite that goes well with the other tastes.
- In a mason jar, mix olive oil, red wine vinegar, grated Parmesan cheese, and lots of black pepper. Close the lid and shake well to mix the dressing.
- Just before serving, pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss. This keeps the lettuce crisp and prevents it from getting soggy.
This pasta house salad recipe is quick, taking about 20-25 minutes to prepare. Perfect for a tasty side dish or a light meal. Enjoy the fresh, flavorful Pasta House Salad in your own home.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Iceberg lettuce, chopped | 4 cups |
| Romaine lettuce, chopped | 4 cups |
| Artichoke hearts, drained and halved | 1 (14 oz) can |
| Black olives, sliced | 1 (2.25 oz) can |
| Pimentos, diced | 2 tablespoons |
| Red onion, thinly sliced | 1 small |
| Olive oil | 1/2 cup |
| Red wine vinegar | 1/3 cup |
| Parmesan cheese, grated | 2 tablespoons |
| Black pepper | 1/4 teaspoon |
By following this easy pasta house salad recipe, you can make the beloved Pasta House salad at home. Enjoy the fresh, flavorful mix of crisp greens, tangy dressing, and tasty mix-ins.
Time-Saving Tips and Make-Ahead Options
Preparing the Pasta House salad can be a breeze with the right tips. This recipe offers several ways to save time and make it ahead. You’ll be able to make this dish as good as a restaurant’s in no time.
Storage Solutions
Start by making parts of the salad ahead of time. You can make the dressing up to a week in advance and store it in the fridge. Also, wash and chop the lettuce blend and store it in airtight containers. This keeps it fresh for days.
Pre-slice the onions and store them separately to save time. You can drain the artichoke hearts and pimentos a day before and have them ready to go. This way, you can quickly assemble the salad when you’re ready to serve.
Prep Work Scheduling
Plan your prep work over a couple of days. Make the dressing and prep the veggies on the first day. Then, on serving day, just mix everything with the chilled dressing. This way, you avoid the stress of last-minute prep.
By using these tips, you can enjoy the Pasta House salad whenever you want. Perfect for a quick, delicious meal at home. Enjoy!
| Ingredient | Preparation | Advance Timing |
|---|---|---|
| Dressing | Combine and store in a sealed container | Up to 1 week |
| Lettuce Blend | Wash, chop, and store in airtight containers | Several days |
| Onions | Pre-slice and store separately | Several days |
| Artichoke Hearts and Pimentos | Drain and prepare | 1 day |
Pairing Suggestions and Serving Ideas
The pasta house company salad is great with many main courses. Perfect as a starter or a light main dish. It goes well with Italian meals, grilled meats, and seafood.
For a full meal, try the pasta house company salad with minestrone soup or garlic bread. Its mix of crisp lettuce, tangy dressing, and tasty toppings is great with hearty dishes.
To make the pasta house company salad a main dish, add grilled chicken or shrimp. Also perfect for family dinners or formal events. A favorite for many occasions.
“The pasta house company salad has a great mix of flavors and textures. A tasty and flexible addition to any meal.
The pasta house company salad goes well with many dishes. Try it with classic Italian, grilled meats, and seafood. Find the best pairings for your taste and event.
Customization Options and Variations
The Pasta House Salad is incredibly versatile. You can change it to fit your taste or dietary needs. Adding grilled chicken or shrimp gives it more protein. Salami or pepperoni add a savory touch.
Protein Additions
For a fuller meal, try adding grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp. They mix well with the crunchy veggies and creamy dressing. Adding salami or pepperoni gives it a Mediterranean flavor.
Vegetarian Modifications
For a vegetarian version, add chickpeas or tofu. These keep you full and happy. Try different cheeses like feta or mozzarella for creaminess. Adding cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers adds crunch and flavor.
FAQ
What is the Pasta House Salad?
The Pasta House Salad is a favorite from the Pasta House Company in St. Louis. A mix of iceberg and romaine lettuce, artichoke hearts, pimentos, and red onions exists. A special dressing with olive oil, red wine vinegar, and Parmesan cheese tosses all the ingredients.
What is the history of the Pasta House Company?
The Pasta House Company started in 1974. A beloved spot in St. Louis, known for family dining and community support, attracts many visitors. Its salad became famous for its unique taste, thanks to artichoke hearts and pimentos.
What are the key ingredients in the Pasta House Salad?
The main ingredients are iceberg and romaine lettuce, artichoke hearts, black olives, pimentos, and red onion. It also includes extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, and Parmesan cheese.
How do you properly prepare the lettuce for the Pasta House Salad?
Choose fresh iceberg and romaine lettuce. Rinse and dry them well. Then, chop them into pieces that are sufficiently large to eat.
What makes the Pasta House Salad dressing unique?
The dressing is a mix of extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, Parmesan cheese, and black pepper. Using top-notch ingredients and the right amounts is key.
How do you prepare the vegetables for the Pasta House Salad?
Soak sliced red onions in cold water to soften them. Use canned artichoke hearts and dice pimentos well.
What is the step-by-step process for making the Pasta House Salad?
Start by mixing chopped lettuce in a large mixing bowl. Add artichoke hearts, black olives, pimentos, and red onion. Make the dressing in a mason jar and toss the salad just before serving.
What are some time-saving tips for making the Pasta House Salad?
Make the dressing ahead of time and keep it in the fridge. Chop the lettuce and slice the onions early. Prepare artichoke hearts and pimentos a day before.
How can you customize the Pasta House Salad?
Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or salami for protein. For a veggie option, try chickpeas or tofu. You can also add different cheeses and veggies like cucumbers and tomatoes.
