Description
Few dishes hit the mark quite like a cold, creamy pasta salad at a summer cookout. And when that pasta salad gets an upgrade from the bold, savory flavors of French onion dip, you get a side dish that guests will remember—and request again and again.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (16 oz) short pasta (rotini, fusilli, or shells)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for the onions)
- 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional, enhances onion sweetness)
- 1 ½ cups sour cream
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 packet French onion soup mix (or homemade mix)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- ½ cup grated parmesan or shredded cheddar (optional for extra richness)
- ¼ cup chopped chives or green onions (for garnish)
Optional Add-ins:
- Crumbled kettle chips (for crunch)
- Crispy shallots
- Chopped celery or bell pepper for added texture
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside to cool completely.
In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sliced onions. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, for about 15–20 minutes, until the onions are deeply golden and sweet. Add balsamic vinegar during the last 5 minutes to deepen the flavor. Let them cool before mixing into the salad.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, French onion soup mix, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and well blended.
Add the cooled pasta to the bowl with the dressing. Mix gently until the pasta is evenly coated.
Add the cooled caramelized onions and any cheese, stirring to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably longer, to let the flavors develop. Top with chives, crispy onions, or crushed chips just before serving for added texture.
Notes
- Caramelize the onions low and slow: This is where the depth of flavor comes from. Don’t rush this step.
- Use full-fat sour cream for the creamiest result.
- Don’t skip the chilling time: This pasta salad is best after the flavors meld in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 20
- Category: Dinner
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6–8
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 4g
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
Keywords: French Onion Pasta Salad