Original St. Louis Pasta House Salad Recipe

The St. Louis Pasta House Salad is a beloved classic that brings together crisp greens, tangy dressing, and a mix of bold flavors. This iconic salad, inspired by the famous Pasta House Co. in St. Louis, Missouri, is a perfect blend of fresh ingredients and a zesty Italian dressing that makes every bite unforgettable. 

It’s a versatile dish that works as a side or a light meal, ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or casual gatherings. With its unique combination of romaine lettuce, red onions, artichoke hearts, and pimentos, this salad is a refreshing addition to any table. 

In this blog post, we’ll guide you through making this delicious salad from scratch with easy-to-follow steps, helpful tips, and ideas to make it your own.

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Pasta House Salad Recipe - Classic Restaurant-Style Salad

Why You'll Love This Pasta House Salad Recipe

This salad is a crowd-pleaser for many reasons. It’s quick to prepare, taking less than 20 minutes from start to finish. The combination of crisp romaine lettuce, nutty parmesan cheese, and tangy dressing creates a balance of textures and flavors that everyone enjoys. 

It’s also customizable, so you can adjust ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs. Whether you’re serving it at a barbecue or enjoying it as a light lunch, this salad is sure to impress with its vibrant colors and bold taste. Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate fresh vegetables into your diet without sacrificing flavor.

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Ingredients For Pasta House Salad

To make the Original St. Louis Pasta House Salad, you’ll need the following ingredients:

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Kitchen Equipment Needed

You don’t need fancy tools to make this salad, but having the right equipment makes the process smoother:

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Pasta House Salad Recipe - Italian Salad for Any Occasion

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed steps to create the perfect St. Louis Pasta House Salad.

1. Prepare the Romaine Lettuce

Start by washing the romaine lettuce thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or grit. Shake off excess water or use a salad spinner to dry the leaves completely. 

Place the lettuce on a cutting board and use a chef’s knife to chop it into bite-sized pieces. Transfer the chopped lettuce to a large mixing bowl.

2. Slice the Red Onion

Peel the red onion and cut it in half. Place one half flat-side down on the cutting board and slice it thinly to create half-moon shapes. 

Add the sliced onions to the bowl with the lettuce. Thin slices ensure the onion flavor doesn’t overpower the salad.

3. Add Artichoke Hearts and Pimentos

Drain the artichoke hearts from the can and pat them dry with a paper towel. Quarter each heart and add them to the large mixing bowl. 

Then, drain the pimentos and dice them if they aren’t already small. Add the diced pimentos to the bowl. These ingredients add a tangy, slightly sweet flavor to the salad.

4. Incorporate Black Olives and Cherry Tomatoes

Take the black olives and slice them into thin rounds. Add them to the salad bowl. Next, rinse the cherry tomatoes and cut them in half. Add the halved tomatoes to the bowl. These add a juicy burst of flavor and color.

5. Grate the Parmesan Cheese

Using a grater, shred the parmesan cheese until you have about 1/4 cup. Sprinkle the grated cheese over the salad ingredients in the large mixing bowl. The cheese adds a nutty, savory touch that ties the salad together.

6. Make the Dressing

In a small mixing bowl, combine 1/4 cup olive oil, 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and 1 tablespoon sugar. 

Use a whisk to mix until the dressing is smooth and well-combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

7. Toss the Salad

Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients in the large mixing bowl. Use salad tongs or clean hands to gently toss everything together, ensuring all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing. 

Be careful not to crush the delicate lettuce leaves.

8. Serve Immediately

Transfer the salad to a serving bowl or individual plates. For the best flavor and texture, serve the salad right away while the lettuce is crisp and the dressing is fresh.

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Serving Suggestions

This salad pairs wonderfully with Italian dishes like Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe or Chicken Alfredo Recipe with Jar Sauce. It’s also a great side for grilled meats, such as Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Recipe. 

For a light meal, serve it with crusty bread or add grilled chicken or shrimp to make it a complete dish. Garnish with extra parmesan cheese or fresh herbs like parsley for a pop of color.

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Pasta House Salad Recipe - Perfect Summer Salad Idea

Variations to Try

  • Add Protein: Include grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a heartier salad.
  • Cheese Swap: Try feta or mozzarella instead of parmesan cheese for a different flavor.
  • Veggie Boost: Add cucumbers, bell peppers, or roasted red peppers for extra crunch.
  • Creamy Dressing: Mix in a tablespoon of mayonnaise to the dressing for a creamier texture.
  • Low-Carb Option: Replace pimentos with diced zucchini to reduce carbs.

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Storage and Reheating

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate if possible to prevent the lettuce from getting soggy. 

If the salad is already dressed, it’s best to eat it within a day. Do not freeze, as the lettuce will wilt. To refresh leftovers, add a handful of fresh romaine lettuce and a drizzle of extra dressing before serving.

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Nutritional Facts

Per serving (based on 4 servings):

  • Calories: 180 kcal
  • Protein: 4g
  • Fat: 14g
  • Carbohydrates: 8g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 420mg

These values are approximate and depend on portion size and specific brands used.

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Health Benefits of Key Ingredients

  • Romaine Lettuce: Rich in vitamins A and K, it supports eye health and bone strength.
  • Artichoke Hearts: High in fiber and antioxidants, they aid digestion and heart health.
  • Pimentos: Packed with vitamin C, they boost immunity and skin health.
  • Red Onion: Contains antioxidants that reduce inflammation and support heart health.
  • Olive Oil: A healthy fat that promotes heart health and reduces cholesterol levels.

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Tips for Success

  • Use fresh, crisp romaine lettuce for the best texture.
  • Pat the artichoke hearts and pimentos dry to avoid a watery salad.
  • Adjust the sugar in the dressing to balance the tanginess to your taste.
  • Toss the salad gently to avoid bruising the lettuce.
  • Serve immediately after tossing to maintain crispness.

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FAQs

1. Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dressing up to 3 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Shake or whisk well before using to ensure the ingredients are well-mixed.

2. Can I use a different type of lettuce?

Absolutely. While romaine lettuce is traditional, you can use iceberg, mixed greens, or spinach. Keep in mind that softer greens like spinach may wilt faster with the dressing.

3. Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free as it contains no wheat-based ingredients. Always check labels on canned goods like artichoke hearts and pimentos to ensure they are gluten-free.

4. Can I add meat to this salad?

Definitely. Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even bacon bits make great additions. Try pairing it with Grilled Salmon with Dill Sauce Recipe for a complete meal.

5. How can I make the salad vegan?

To make it vegan, omit the parmesan cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative. Ensure the Dijon mustard is vegan, as some brands may contain honey.

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Final Thoughts

The St. Louis Pasta House Salad is a timeless dish that’s easy to make and bursting with flavor. Its crisp vegetables, tangy dressing, and versatility make it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as a side or a main dish, this salad is sure to become a favorite in your home. 

With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike. Try it out, experiment with variations, and enjoy a taste of St. Louis right at your table.

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Original St. Louis Pasta House Salad Recipe