Pasta House Company Salad has become a favorite for many who crave a fresh and flavorful side dish that complements any meal. Known for its crisp ingredients and tangy dressing this salad offers a perfect balance of textures and tastes. Whether you’re dining out or looking to recreate this classic at home we’ve got you covered.
This recipe brings together vibrant greens crunchy vegetables and a zesty dressing that’s easy to make from scratch. It’s a versatile salad that pairs beautifully with pasta dishes grilled meats or even as a light meal on its own. Let’s dive into making this delicious Pasta House Company Salad that will quickly become a staple in our kitchen.
Ingredients
To craft the authentic Pasta House Company Salad at home, we need to gather fresh, vibrant ingredients for both the salad base and the tangy dressing. Each element plays a crucial role in recreating the signature balance of flavors and textures that make this salad a favorite.
Salad Ingredients
- Romaine lettuce – 4 cups, chopped crisp for a crunchy foundation
- Iceberg lettuce – 2 cups, shredded to add fresh crispness
- Red cabbage – 1 cup, finely sliced for a subtle sweetness and vibrant color
- Carrots – 1 cup, julienned to provide a natural sweetness and crunch
- Cherry tomatoes – 1 cup, halved for juiciness and bright flavor
- Red onion – ¼ cup, thinly sliced adding a mild sharpness
- Kalamata olives – ½ cup, pitted and sliced for a briny, bold note
- Pepperoncini – ¼ cup, sliced to contribute a tangy, slightly spicy kick
- Mozzarella cheese – ½ cup, cubed or shredded for creamy texture
- Pepperoni slices – ½ cup, cut into halves to introduce savory richness
Dressing Ingredients
- Olive oil – ½ cup, as the smooth base delivering richness
- Red wine vinegar – ¼ cup, providing the essential tanginess
- Garlic – 2 cloves, minced to infuse robust flavor
- Dijon mustard – 1 tablespoon, helping to emulsify and add subtle spice
- Sugar – 1 teaspoon, balancing acidity with gentle sweetness
- Dried oregano – 1 teaspoon, bringing herbaceous warmth
- Salt – ½ teaspoon, enhancing all flavors
- Black pepper – ¼ teaspoon, freshly ground for mild heat
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Romaine lettuce | 4 cups | Chopped |
| Iceberg lettuce | 2 cups | Shredded |
| Red cabbage | 1 cup | Finely sliced |
| Carrots | 1 cup | Julienned |
| Cherry tomatoes | 1 cup | Halved |
| Red onion | ¼ cup | Thinly sliced |
| Kalamata olives | ½ cup | Pitted and sliced |
| Pepperoncini | ¼ cup | Sliced |
| Mozzarella cheese | ½ cup | Cubed or shredded |
| Pepperoni slices | ½ cup | Halved |
| Olive oil | ½ cup | For dressing |
| Red wine vinegar | ¼ cup | For dressing |
| Garlic | 2 cloves | Minced |
| Dijon mustard | 1 tablespoon | For dressing |
| Sugar | 1 teaspoon | For dressing |
| Dried oregano | 1 teaspoon | For dressing |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon | For dressing |
| Black pepper | ¼ teaspoon | Freshly ground |
Gathering these fresh, crisp salad ingredients and zesty dressing components ensures we capture the essence of the Pasta House Company Salad perfectly.
Equipment Needed
To craft the Pasta House Company Salad with its signature fresh taste and vibrant texture, having the right equipment makes all the difference. Here’s what we need to prepare this delicious dish efficiently and accurately:
- Large Salad Bowl: Essential for tossing all the fresh ingredients together without spilling.
- Cutting Board: A sturdy surface for chopping lettuces, vegetables, and toppings safely.
- Chef’s Knife: Sharp and versatile for slicing romaine and iceberg lettuce, red cabbage, carrots, cherry tomatoes, and red onion precisely.
- Measuring Spoons and Cups: To ensure our zesty dressing blends perfectly every time with the right balance of olive oil, vinegar, and seasonings.
- Salad Spinner: Useful for drying washed greens like romaine, iceberg lettuce, and red cabbage thoroughly, preventing soggy salad.
- Mixing Bowl: Needed to whisk together the dressing ingredients smoothly.
- Whisk or Fork: For combining olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, Dijon mustard, and spices into a uniform dressing.
- Serving Utensils: Tongs or salad servers to mix and plate the salad elegantly.
- Small Bowl: For marinating or mixing any additional toppings like pepperoncini or mozzarella if preferred.
Summary of Essential Equipment
| Equipment Type | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large Salad Bowl | Toss all salad components evenly |
| Cutting Board | Safe and efficient chopping |
| Chef’s Knife | Precise slicing and dicing |
| Measuring Spoons/Cups | Accurate dressing measurements |
| Salad Spinner | Drying washed greens effectively |
| Mixing Bowl | Preparing the zesty dressing |
| Whisk or Fork | Combining dressing ingredients smoothly |
| Serving Utensils | Neat mixing and serving |
| Small Bowl | Preparing toppings or small ingredient mixes |
Equipping ourselves with these tools sets the stage for an effortless process, making the preparation of the Pasta House Company Salad as enjoyable as its taste. Let’s gather these essentials before moving on to the next stages of making this classic salad.
Prep Work
Before assembling the Pasta House Company Salad, thorough prep work ensures every bite bursts with freshness and flavor. Let’s get our ingredients ready for a vibrant and crisp salad experience.
Washing and Chopping Vegetables
First, wash all leafy greens and vegetables thoroughly under cold running water. Use a salad spinner to dry romaine, iceberg lettuce, and red cabbage completely. Removing excess moisture keeps the salad crisp and dressing from becoming watery.
Next, finely shred red cabbage and carrots for that perfect crunchy texture. Slice red onion into thin rings to add a mild pungency without overpowering the salad. Halve cherry tomatoes to release their juicy sweetness and keep bites manageable.
Here’s a quick reference table for vegetable prep:
| Vegetable | Prep Method | Size/Style |
|---|---|---|
| Romaine & Iceberg | Wash & spin dry | Roughly chopped |
| Red Cabbage | Wash & shred | Fine shreds |
| Carrots | Wash & peel if needed | Julienne or thin sticks |
| Cherry Tomatoes | Wash | Halved |
| Red Onion | Peel & wash | Thin rings |
Preparing Salad Toppings
With vegetables ready, we move on to toppings that bring depth and the classic Pasta House Company Salad flair. Kalamata olives should be pitted and sliced to evenly distribute their briny tang throughout the salad.
Drain pepperoncini and slice them into rings, injecting a subtle heat and acidity. Cut mozzarella cheese into bite-sized chunks or small cubes for creamy, mild richness.
Finally, slice pepperoni thinly to layer in that savory, slightly spicy character reminiscent of the original salad.
Use this table for efficient topping prep:
| Topping | Prep Method | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Kalamata Olives | Pit & slice | Medium-thin slices |
| Pepperoncini | Drain & slice | Rings for balanced heat |
| Mozzarella Cheese | Cube or chunk | Small, bite-sized |
| Pepperoni | Thinly slice | Use sharp knife for precision |
Prepping vegetables and toppings precisely guarantees the signature fresh taste and inviting texture that make the Pasta House Company Salad so beloved.
Directions
Follow these clear steps to bring together the vibrant flavors and textures that make the Pasta House Company Salad irresistible. We’ll guide you through making the dressing, tossing the salad, and combining both for the perfect finish.
Making the Dressing
To create the signature zesty dressing that elevates the salad, combine the ingredients precisely:
- In a medium mixing bowl, add:
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Whisk vigorously until the mixture is well emulsified, creating a smooth homogenous dressing.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, balancing acidity and sweetness to suit your preference.
“This dressing is the heart of our Pasta House Company Salad, delivering a perfect tangy punch that harmonizes the fresh ingredients.”
Tossing the Salad
Properly tossing the salad ensures every bite bursts with balanced flavor. Follow this method:
- Place the prepared romaine and iceberg lettuce, shredded red cabbage, thinly sliced carrots, halved cherry tomatoes, and sliced red onion in a large salad bowl.
- Gently toss using salad utensils to combine all vegetables evenly without bruising the leaves.
- Add the sliced Kalamata olives, drained pepperoncini, cubed mozzarella cheese, and thinly sliced pepperoni on top.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Romaine & Iceberg Lettuce | 4 cups | Washed & chopped |
| Red Cabbage | 1 cup | Finely shredded |
| Carrots | 1/2 cup | Thinly sliced |
| Cherry Tomatoes | 1 cup | Halved |
| Red Onion | 1/4 cup | Thinly sliced |
| Kalamata Olives | 1/4 cup | Pitted & sliced |
| Pepperoncini | 1/4 cup | Sliced & drained |
| Mozzarella Cheese | 1 cup | Cubed |
| Pepperoni | 1/2 cup | Thinly sliced |
Combining Salad and Dressing
Bringing the components together prepares your salad for serving:
- Pour the freshly made dressing over the tossed salad vegetables.
- Gently toss again just until the dressing lightly coats all ingredients, maintaining the crispness of the greens.
- Serve immediately for optimum freshness and texture.
Remember, the key to a perfect Pasta House Company Salad is balancing the freshness of the vegetables with the zesty dressing that ties every ingredient together beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
To maximize the vibrant flavors of our Pasta House Company Salad, consider these ideal serving options that complement its crisp texture and zesty dressing.
Pairing with Main Dishes
Our salad shines as a refreshing side to hearty meals. We recommend serving it alongside:
- Grilled chicken or shrimp for a light protein boost
- Pasta dishes like spaghetti aglio e olio or fettuccine Alfredo to add a crunchy contrast
- Italian-style sandwiches such as meatball subs or Italian cold cuts for a balanced meal
Serving Size and Presentation
Serve the salad chilled for optimal crispness. A generous portion is usually:
| Serving Size | Amount per Person |
|---|---|
| Side Salad | 1 to 1.5 cups |
| Light Meal | 2 to 3 cups |
We like to present it in shallow bowls or wide plates to showcase the colorful combination of romaine, iceberg, cherry tomatoes, and pepperoni. Garnish with extra cracked black pepper or a sprinkle of shaved Parmesan for an elegant touch.
Enhancing the Salad Experience
Add simple accompaniments to elevate our Pasta House Company Salad:
- Warm crusty bread or garlic breadsticks for dipping in the zesty dressing
- A glass of light Italian white wine like Pinot Grigio to complement the tangy dressing flavors
- A sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or fresh basil leaves for extra crunch and aroma
Storage and Serving Tips
If preparing ahead, keep the salad and dressing separate in airtight containers. Toss them just before serving to maintain the salad’s fresh crunch and vibrant color. This ensures each bite retains its signature balance of fresh vegetables and zesty dressing.
“The key is in serving the salad fresh and chilled, allowing every ingredient’s flavor to shine distinctly but harmoniously.”
By following these serving suggestions, we ensure our Pasta House Company Salad remains the star at any meal or gathering.
Make-Ahead Tips
To enjoy the Pasta House Company Salad at its freshest, we recommend following these make-ahead tips that preserve the vibrant flavors and crisp textures.
Prepare Ingredients in Advance
- Wash and dry leafy greens (romaine, iceberg) thoroughly with a salad spinner. Store them in an airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb excess moisture. This keeps the greens crisp for up to 2 days.
- Shred red cabbage and carrots before storing. Place them in separate sealed containers to maintain their crunch.
- Slice red onions, halve cherry tomatoes, and pit Kalamata olives. Store these ingredients individually in small containers to prevent flavor mixing.
- Cube mozzarella cheese and slice pepperoni. Keep these refrigerated in airtight containers to preserve freshness.
- Drain and slice pepperoncini, placing them in a small bowl covered tightly.
Storing the Dressing Separately
For the signature zesty dressing, whisk all ingredients together and refrigerate in a sealed jar. Shake well before serving. Keep the dressing separate until right before tossing the salad to avoid sogginess.
Assembly Timing
| Step | Recommended Timing | Storage Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Wash and prep veggies | 1-2 days before serving | Store in airtight containers, paper-lined |
| Prepare cheese & meats | 1 day before serving | Keep refrigerated in sealed containers |
| Make dressing | Up to 3 days ahead | Refrigerate in a sealed jar, shake before use |
| Toss salad | Just before serving | Combine salad and dressing to maintain crunch |
Key Reminders
We strongly suggest assembling the salad no more than 30 minutes before serving to enjoy the perfect balance of textures and taste.
By adhering to these steps, we guarantee your Pasta House Company Salad will taste as fresh and delightful as the original every time you serve it.
Conclusion
Making the Pasta House Company Salad at home lets us enjoy a fresh and flavorful dish anytime. With the right ingredients and a simple dressing, we can recreate that perfect balance of crisp veggies and zesty taste.
This salad’s versatility means it pairs well with many meals or stands alone as a light, satisfying option. By following the preparation and storage tips, we ensure every bite stays crisp and delicious.
Let’s keep this recipe handy for a quick, vibrant salad that brings a touch of Italian flair to our table.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients are needed for the Pasta House Company Salad?
The salad requires romaine and iceberg lettuce, red cabbage, carrots, cherry tomatoes, red onion, Kalamata olives, pepperoncini, mozzarella cheese, and pepperoni. For the dressing, you’ll need olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, Dijon mustard, sugar, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.
How do I prepare the vegetables for the salad?
Wash and dry leafy greens thoroughly, shred the red cabbage and carrots finely, slice the red onion and pepperoni thinly, halve the cherry tomatoes, and pit and slice Kalamata olives and pepperoncini. Cube the mozzarella cheese.
What equipment is necessary to make this salad?
You’ll need a large salad bowl, cutting board, chef’s knife, measuring spoons and cups, salad spinner, mixing bowl, whisk or fork, serving utensils, and a small bowl for mixing toppings or marinating.
How is the dressing made for the Pasta House Company Salad?
Combine olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, sugar, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Whisk well until the dressing is zesty and balanced in acidity and sweetness.
How should I toss the salad to keep it fresh?
Add the dressing gradually and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly. Toss just before serving to maintain crispness of the greens and vibrant texture.
Can this salad be served as a main dish?
Yes, it can be enjoyed as a light meal on its own or served alongside grilled chicken, pasta dishes, or Italian-style sandwiches.
What are the best serving suggestions for this salad?
Serve chilled in shallow bowls or wide plates, garnish with cracked black pepper or shaved Parmesan, and consider pairing with warm bread, a light Italian white wine, or toasted pine nuts.
How should I store the salad and dressing before serving?
Store the salad and dressing separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Assemble and dress the salad no more than 30 minutes before serving to keep it fresh and crunchy.
Can I prepare the salad ingredients ahead of time?
Yes, wash and dry leafy greens, shred vegetables, and store in airtight containers. Prepare the dressing in advance but keep it separate until serving to avoid sogginess.
What makes the Pasta House Company Salad unique?
Its signature freshness comes from the combination of crisp vegetables and the tangy, well-balanced homemade dressing that ties all flavors and textures together beautifully.