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French Onion Pasta Salad

French Onion Pasta Salad
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★★★★★

5 from 31 reviews

A flavorful and comforting French Onion Pasta Salad that combines sweet caramelized onions with a creamy, tangy dressing, tossed with farfalle pasta and fresh herbs. Perfect as a unique side dish or light main course, this recipe highlights the rich depth of slow-cooked onions balanced by a refreshing dressing and hearty pasta.

Ingredients

Scale

Caramelized Onions

  • 2 white onions, thinly sliced
  • 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (evoo)
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 2–3 garlic cloves, minced

Pasta

  • 3/4 lb farfalle pasta
  • Salt, for pasta water

Dressing

  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup white wine vinegar
  • 2 tbsp fresh chopped parsley
  • 1 tbsp chopped chives
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce

Garnish

  • Reserved caramelized onion strands
  • Parsley leaves
  • Fresh cracked black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Caramelize the Onions: Thinly slice the white onions and cook them slowly over low heat in a skillet with the olive oil. Add a pinch of salt and stir occasionally every 3-5 minutes until the onions become soft and golden brown, approximately 40 minutes. In the final minute, add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Set aside a few strands of caramelized onions for garnish.
  2. Cook the Pasta: While the onions are cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the farfalle pasta and cook according to package instructions, typically 10-12 minutes, until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool the pasta. Set aside.
  3. Prepare the Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together the sour cream, mayonnaise, white wine vinegar, chopped parsley, chives, and soy sauce. Adjust the consistency by adding a few tablespoons of reserved cooled pasta water if needed for a smoother dressing.
  4. Toss the Salad: Combine the cooked and cooled pasta with the dressing until evenly coated. Gently fold in the caramelized onions, reserving some for topping.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Transfer the pasta salad to a serving bowl and top with the reserved caramelized onion strands, fresh parsley leaves, and freshly cracked black pepper. This salad can be served at room temperature or chilled. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to two days.

Notes

  • Caramelizing onions is a slow process but essential for deep flavor; patience is key.
  • Adjust the dressing thickness with reserved pasta water for desired consistency.
  • Use white wine vinegar for its mild acidity; apple cider vinegar can be substituted if needed.
  • For a vegan version, substitute sour cream and mayo with vegan alternatives and use tamari instead of soy sauce.
  • The salad is best eaten within two days for optimal freshness and flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: French onion, pasta salad, caramelized onions, farfalle, creamy dressing, summer salad, side dish, vegetarian

Find it online: https://mixitwitjoe.com/french-onion-pasta-salad/