A Pasta House Salad is more than just a bowl of greens; it’s an explosion of flavors and textures that has earned its place in the hearts (and stomachs) of food lovers. This classic Italian salad combines fresh, crisp vegetables, savory toppings, and a tangy homemade dressing that brings everything together.
Whether you’re recreating this dish for a family dinner or elevating a potluck offering, this guide will show you how to make a delicious version of the iconic Pasta House Salad. Let’s dive into the recipe, step by step!
What Is a Pasta House Salad?
The Pasta House Salad originated in Italian-American kitchens, quickly becoming a restaurant favorite thanks to its balance of crisp vegetables, zesty dressing, and flavorful toppings. What makes it stand out is the perfect harmony of tangy, salty, and savory elements, ensuring every bite feels indulgent.
This salad is versatile—ideal as a side dish or a light main course—and can be customized with optional add-ons to suit your taste.
Why You’ll Love This Pasta House Salad Recipe
- Packed with fresh ingredients and bold flavors.
- Perfect for gatherings, lunches, or as a pre-dinner appetizer.
- Easy to customize with your favorite vegetables and toppings.
Curious about making a dressing from scratch? Check out these tips for making homemade salad dressing to elevate your recipe.
Essential Ingredients for a Perfect Pasta House Salad Salad
To make this delicious salad, you’ll need the following fresh and flavorful ingredients:
- Romaine Lettuce: The crunchy backbone of the salad.
- Red Onion: Adds a sharp, tangy bite.
- Artichoke Hearts: Delivers a savory, slightly briny flavor.
- Pepperoncini: For a mild, zesty kick.
- Parmesan Cheese: Finely grated for an umami-packed topping.
- Croutons: Adds texture and crunch.
For a healthier option, swap traditional croutons with gluten-free alternatives or baked pita chips. Did you know that Romaine lettuce offers numerous health benefits, such as being rich in vitamins A and K? Learn more about its benefits here.
Making the Signature Dressing
The secret to an authentic Pasta House Salad is the dressing. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Red Wine Vinegar: Provides a tangy base.
- Olive Oil: Adds richness and smooth texture.
- Garlic and Spices: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
Preparation Tips for the Dressing Pasta House Salad Recipes
- Combine red wine vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a jar or bowl.
- Whisk until the ingredients are emulsified.
- For an extra kick, add a pinch of dried oregano or red pepper flakes.
Store any extra dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator—it can last up to a week.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Assemble
1. Preparing the Vegetables
- Wash and dry the Romaine lettuce thoroughly to ensure crispness.
- Thinly slice the red onion and chop the artichoke hearts into bite-sized pieces.
- Slice the pepperoncini for an even distribution of heat.
2. Tossing the Salad
- In a large salad bowl, layer the lettuce, red onion, artichokes, and pepperoncini.
- Add croutons and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
3. Adding the Dressing
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad. Start light—you can always add more!
- Gently toss the ingredients to ensure every bite is coated with the flavorful dressing.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve immediately to maintain the crisp texture of the lettuce and croutons.
- Garnish with additional Parmesan or fresh herbs for extra flair.
- Pair with garlic bread or a bowl of soup for a complete meal.
For a delightful pairing, consider serving this salad alongside Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta. The rich flavors of the chicken and pasta complement the fresh, tangy notes of the salad perfectly.
Nutritional Benefits of the Salad
This tangy and crunchy salad isn’t just tasty—it’s also packed with nutrients:
- Romaine Lettuce: Low in calories and rich in vitamins A and K.
- Artichoke Hearts: High in fiber and antioxidants.
- Olive Oil: A heart-healthy source of monounsaturated fats.
For a lighter version, consider using less cheese or swapping croutons for a healthier topping like roasted chickpeas.
Expert Tips for the Perfect Salad
Secrets to Success
- Use the freshest ingredients possible—this makes a big difference in taste.
- Chill your salad bowl and utensils before assembling for extra crispness.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Avoid overdressing the salad—it can make it soggy.
- Toss the salad just before serving to maintain the ideal texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
What dressing does Pasta House use?
The Pasta House uses a red wine vinaigrette, which combines olive oil, vinegar, and seasonings for a tangy flavor.
Can I make the salad ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the ingredients and dressing separately, then toss them together just before serving to maintain freshness.
What are good substitutes for artichoke hearts?
If you don’t like artichokes, try hearts of palm or marinated mushrooms for a similar texture and flavor.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, but avoid adding dressing to any portions you plan to save.
Is Pasta House Salad healthy?
Yes! It’s rich in fiber, vitamins, and healthy fats. Use a light dressing or skip the croutons for a lower-calorie version.
Pasta House Salad
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 6 cups romaine lettuce chopped
- 1 cup red cabbage shredded
- 1 cup iceberg lettuce chopped
- 1/2 cup carrots julienned
- 1/2 cup artichoke hearts chopped
- 1/4 cup pimentos drained and chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese grated
- 1/2 cup croutons optional
For the Dressing:
- 1/3 cup red wine vinegar
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 clove garlic minced
Instructions
Prepare the Salad:
- In a large bowl, combine romaine lettuce, iceberg lettuce, red cabbage, carrots, artichoke hearts, pimentos, and red onion.
- Toss well to mix the ingredients evenly.
Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together red wine vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, sugar, salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and minced garlic until well combined.
Assemble the Salad:
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat the ingredients evenly.
- Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top and add croutons if desired.
Serve & Enjoy:
- Serve immediately for the best flavor and freshness.
Notes
- For extra crunch, add croutons or toasted nuts.
- Swap out the dressing for a lighter vinaigrette if preferred.
- Best served fresh but can be stored in the fridge for up to 1 day.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 22g
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 480mg
