Description
This French Onion Pasta Salad combines creamy, tangy dressing with sweet, caramelized onions and tender rotini pasta for a savory, satisfying side dish. Perfect for summer gatherings or potlucks, it features rich Swiss cheese and a classic blend of seasonings that elevate this unique pasta salad to a new level.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 12 oz rotini or fusilli pasta
Caramelized Onions
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Dressing
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Additional Ingredients
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- ½ cup chopped green onions
- Optional: ¼ cup chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Prepare the rotini or fusilli pasta according to the package instructions until it reaches al dente texture. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to halt the cooking process. Set aside to cool.
- Caramelize the Onions: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced yellow onions, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Cook the mixture, stirring occasionally, for 20 to 25 minutes until the onions become deeply caramelized and golden brown. Remove from heat and allow the onions to cool.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, onion powder, garlic powder, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth and well combined.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooled caramelized onions, cooked pasta, shredded Swiss cheese, and chopped green onions into the dressing. Toss everything together gently until all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Chill and Garnish: Place the pasta salad in the refrigerator and chill for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld. Before serving, garnish with chopped parsley if desired to add a fresh, vibrant touch.
Notes
- For a tangier flavor, substitute Greek yogurt in place of sour cream.
- To enhance the depth of flavor, add a few dashes of French onion soup mix into the dressing.
