Did you know a Pasta House Co salad recipe has six different lettuces? This mix creates a unique taste that St. Louis loves. It’s more than food; it’s a tradition in Midwestern cuisine.
I’m excited to share the secrets of this famous salad. It’s not just a side dish. It’s a special experience that turns simple ingredients into something amazing.
The salad has Mediterranean flavors and a perfect dressing. It’s a story of culinary creativity. It combines crisp lettuce, tangy artichoke hearts, and a signature dressing loved in St. Louis.
In this guide, I’ll show you how to make this legendary dressing. You’ll bring a taste of St. Louis to your kitchen. Get ready for a salad that’s more than just greens.
The Story Behind St. Louis’s Beloved Restaurant Salad
The Pasta House Company became a big name in St. Louis, changing the local food scene. It started in 1983 and quickly became a key part of St. Louis’s food culture. People loved it for its special Italian salad dressing and fresh ingredients.
Roots of Culinary Excellence
What began as a small family restaurant grew into a beloved spot in St. Louis. The founders created a pasta salad that became famous. It mixed traditional Italian tastes with new ingredients.
- Established in 1983 in St. Louis, Missouri
- Family-owned restaurant with deep community connections
- Innovative approach to classic Italian cuisine
Local Culinary Sensation
The salad became a hit, known for its unique mix of ingredients. It stood out from other pasta salads. Key ingredients include:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Romaine Lettuce | 3 hearts |
| Iceberg Lettuce | 2 cups shredded |
| Artichoke Hearts | 1 can, quartered |
| Parmesan Cheese | 2/3 cup grated |
What Makes It Extraordinary
The Pasta House Co salad’s secret is its special Italian salad dressing. It’s made with olive oil, red wine vinegar, and classic spices. This mix turns a simple salad into a masterpiece loved by St. Louis diners for years.
- Unique dressing recipe
- Fresh, high-quality ingredients
- Commitment to authentic flavors
Essential Fresh Ingredients for Perfect Recreation
To make the perfect Pasta House Co salad, start with top-notch ingredients. The key is a mix of lettuce that adds great texture and taste. This mix is the heart of the classic recipe.
Choosing the right lettuce is key for the salad’s taste. Mix iceberg and romaine lettuce for the best base. Iceberg adds crunch, and romaine brings a fresh taste.
- Romaine lettuce: Provides crisp texture and nutritional value
- Iceberg lettuce: Adds extra crunchiness and volume
- Artichoke hearts: Deliver a unique, tender element
- Diced pimentos: Contribute vibrant color and mild sweetness
Artichoke hearts make the salad special. They add a tender, nutty flavor. Diced pimentos add color and sweetness, making the salad complete.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Romaine Lettuce | 2 cups, chopped | Base and nutrition |
| Iceberg Lettuce | 2 cups, chopped | Crunch and volume |
| Artichoke Hearts | 1/2 cup | Texture and flavor |
| Diced Pimentos | 1/4 cup | Color and sweetness |
With the right ingredients and preparation, you can make the Pasta House Co salad at home. It’s a delicious experience.
Pasta House Co Salad Recipe: Step-by-Step Guide
Making the perfect Pasta House Co salad needs attention to detail. I’ll show you how to make this St. Louis favorite in your kitchen.
Preparing the Signature Dressing
The pasta house company salad recipe begins with its famous dressing. In a big bowl, mix ⅔ cup olive oil and ⅓ cup red wine vinegar. This 3:1 ratio gives the dressing a perfect balance.
- Add ½ teaspoon salt
- Add ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Grate ⅔ cup Parmesan cheese
- Whisk until everything is well mixed
Assembling the Salad Components
Getting your ingredients ready is key for the copycat pasta house co salad. Chop your lettuce mix carefully:
- 1/3 head of romaine lettuce
- 1 round head of iceberg lettuce
- 1 cup thinly sliced red onions
- 1 cup quartered artichoke hearts
- 1 cup diced pimentos
Mixing and Presentation Techniques
Combine ingredients in a large bowl. Toss the salad about three times after adding dressing. Tip: Dress the salad just before serving to keep it fresh. It takes about 25 minutes to prepare, mostly for chopping and mixing.
For an authentic pasta house company salad, use fresh ingredients and mix carefully. Serve right away for the best flavor and texture.
Mastering the Italian Dressing Blend
Making the perfect Italian dressing is an art. It turns a simple salad into a feast for the senses. I’ll share the secrets to making a dressing that brings out the best in your salad.
The key to a great Italian dressing is using top-notch ingredients. Start with extra-virgin olive oil as the base. Then, add red wine vinegar for a tangy kick that makes everything taste better.
Key Ingredients for Authentic Italian Dressing:
- 1 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, finely minced
- Grated parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
The secret to a great dressing is in the balance. Whisk everything together well. This makes the dressing smooth and coats your salad perfectly.
Dressing Storage and Longevity:
| Storage Method | Duration | Recommended Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerated | Up to 2 weeks | Sealed glass container |
| Room Temperature | 24 hours | Away from direct sunlight |
Pro tip: Always taste and adjust your dressing. The right mix of olive oil, red wine vinegar, and parmesan cheese makes your salad unforgettable.
Expert Tips for Authentic Taste and Texture
Making the perfect pasta house salad needs precision and skill. My years in the kitchen have shown me that the right temperature and prep methods make all the difference. They turn a simple salad into a dish that wows everyone.
Here are some secrets for making a real pasta house salad. It’s all about capturing the true spirit of this favorite dish.
Temperature Control Techniques
It’s key to keep ingredients cool for a crisp salad. Here are my top tips:
- Chill veggies for 30 minutes before you start
- Store sliced red onion in a cool spot
- Keep dressing at room temperature for best flavor
Make-Ahead Storage Solutions
Prepping parts ahead saves time without losing quality. Here are some storage tips:
| Ingredient | Storage Method | Maximum Storage Time |
|---|---|---|
| Chopped Lettuce | Sealed container with paper towel | 24 hours |
| Sliced Red Onion | Airtight container in refrigerator | 48 hours |
| Dressing | Glass jar with tight lid | 1 week |
Serving Suggestions
The way you serve your pasta house salad can make a big difference. Always add dressing just before serving. This keeps everything crisp and prevents it from getting soggy.
- Use chilled plates for serving
- Toss ingredients gently to keep texture
- Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese
By using these expert tips, you’ll make a pasta house salad that’s just as good as the one from the restaurant. It’s sure to make every meal a special one.
Conclusion
Exploring the Pasta House Company salad shows a true treasure in St. Louis’s food scene. It’s more than just a dish; it’s a mix of fresh ingredients and special salad dressing. This combination has won the hearts of many over the years.
The salad’s layers of red onions and crisp lettuce create a flavor symphony. This is why it’s loved by so many. Home cooks can easily make this dish, turning simple ingredients into a memorable meal.
This salad is not just a side dish or a light meal. It’s a celebration of St. Louis’s culinary tradition. By learning how to make it, you can bring a piece of St. Louis into your kitchen. It shows the beauty of this special recipe.
FAQ
What makes the Pasta House Co salad so special?
The salad is famous for its mix of iceberg and romaine lettuce. It also has artichoke hearts, pimentos, and red onions. The Italian dressing is a key part, making it a St. Louis favorite.
Can I make the Pasta House Co salad at home?
Yes, you can! Just use fresh ingredients and follow the dressing recipe carefully. This will help you make it just like the original.
What are the essential ingredients for the Pasta House Co salad?
You’ll need iceberg and romaine lettuce, artichoke hearts, pimentos, and red onions. Don’t forget the dressing made with olive oil, red wine vinegar, and Parmesan cheese.
How important is the dressing to the salad’s flavor?
The dressing is key! It’s what makes the Pasta House Co salad special. The mix of olive oil, red wine vinegar, and Parmesan cheese gives it a unique taste.
How long can I store the prepared salad?
Keep the salad components separate and dress it just before eating. You can prepare the lettuce and vegetables ahead of time. But add the dressing right before serving to keep it crisp.
Is this salad suitable for special diets?
The basic recipe is vegetarian. But, you can adjust it for gluten-free or dairy-free diets with simple changes.
Where did the Pasta House Co salad originate?
It was created at the original Pasta House Company in St. Louis, founded in 1974. It quickly became a local favorite and a staple of St. Louis cuisine.
What type of olive oil works best for the dressing?
Choose a high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best taste. The quality of the oil greatly affects the dressing’s flavor, so pick a fresh, good-quality one.
