French Onion Pasta Salad

This French onion pasta salad is the kind of dish that turns even the simplest dinner into something everyone craves I wanted the coziness of caramelized onions and the bright tang of a creamy dressing all tossed with al dente pasta The result is comforting but fresh perfect for lunch or as a side at gatherings

I love how the mixture of caramelized onions and the creamy dressing makes each bite rich without being heavy The first time I made this it disappeared from the table before I even sat down

Ingredients

• White onions: choose firm white onions their sweetness gets deepened as they caramelize
• Extra virgin olive oil: buy cold-pressed for the best caramelization and richer flavor
• Salt: opt for sea salt for even seasoning
• Fresh garlic cloves: pick plump cloves they mellow out when cooked with the onions
• Farfalle pasta: I prefer a quality brand it holds the sauce well and looks festive
• Sour cream: choose full fat for richness and creaminess
• Mayonnaise: use real mayonnaise for velvety texture
• White wine vinegar: look for one with balanced acidity not too sharp for a bright dressing
• Fresh parsley: pick flat-leaf parsley rinse thoroughly for the freshest taste
• Chives: look for bright green chives they add a light oniony finish
• Soy sauce: select naturally brewed soy sauce it adds umami and depth

Step-by-Step Instructions

Caramelize the Onions:

Slice the onions as thinly as possible Heat olive oil in a large skillet over low heat Add onions and season them with a little salt Cook slowly stirring every few minutes for about 40 to 45 minutes Wait for them to become deeply golden soft and almost jammy Do not rush this part as it is the flavor backbone

Add Garlic at the End:

In the final minute of onion cooking time stir in the minced garlic Stir continuously letting the garlic release its fragrance This keeps the garlic sweet and prevents burning

Cook the Pasta:

Bring salted water to a boil in a large pot Add your farfalle pasta Give it a good stir so it does not stick Cook according to the box instructions until just al dente Drain the pasta

Cool and Set Aside Pasta:

Spread the cooked pasta on a tray to cool If you like drizzle a teaspoon of oil and toss to keep it from sticking Ensure the pasta is barely warm before adding to the salad

Mix the Dressing:

In a big bowl whisk together sour cream mayonnaise white wine vinegar parsley soy sauce and chopped chives Taste the dressing and adjust seasoning as desired For a thinner dressing stir in a tablespoon or two of the reserved pasta water until creamy but pourable

Assemble the Salad:

Add the cooled pasta to the bowl with dressing Add most of the caramelized onions but save a few strands for garnish Toss everything gently until the pasta is well coated

Finish and Serve:

Transfer to a serving bowl Top with the reserved caramelized onions more chopped parsley and a little black pepper Serve chilled or at room temperature

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This pasta salad is a standout at potlucks and always makes people ask for the recipe I am always reminded of the time I took it to a summer reunion and had everyone from my younger cousins to my grandma coming back for seconds I especially love the caramelized onions every time I make them the kitchen fills with this cozy aroma that brings back memories of family dinners

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days If you notice the pasta has absorbed some dressing stir in a splash of non dairy milk or more vinegar to revive the creaminess Just be sure to let it come to room temperature for about ten minutes before serving for the best texture

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to replace farfalle pasta with rotini or penne if that is what you have Sour cream can be swapped with Greek yogurt for added protein or use vegan mayo and non dairy yogurt for a plant based version Swap chives with green onion tops if needed

Serving Suggestions

Serve this salad as a stand alone lunch or a hearty side with grilled chicken steak or tofu It brightens up picnic tables gets along with everything from barbecue to roasted veggies and always grabs attention wherever you bring it

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History Behind French Onion Flavor

French onion soup has been a comfort food classic for centuries This recipe takes those slow cooked sweet onions and transforms them into a twist on traditional pasta salad Making it brings a little French bistro feel to your home kitchen even in the middle of a sunny afternoon

Common Recipe Questions

→ How long does it take to caramelize the onions?

Caramelizing onions over low heat takes about 45 minutes, allowing them to become sweet and golden brown.

→ What type of pasta works best?

Farfalle is recommended for its shape and texture, but penne or rotini can also absorb the creamy dressing well.

→ Can I adjust the dressing thickness?

Absolutely. Use cooled pasta water to thin out the dressing until you reach your preferred texture.

→ How should this pasta salad be served?

It can be enjoyed at room temperature or chilled, making it great for make-ahead meals or gatherings.

→ What herbs complement the flavor best?

Fresh parsley and chives brighten the dish and balance the richness of the creamy dressing and sweet onions.

→ How long does this dish keep?

Stored in the refrigerator, it stays fresh for up to two days and is great for leftovers.