Are you tired of the same old pasta salad? Looking for a recipe that will impress your guests and elevate your next gathering?
Look no further than La Madeleine Pasta Salad Recipe. This delicious dish combines the flavors of fresh basil, Parmesan cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes to create a mouthwatering pasta salad that is sure to be a hit.
In this blog post, we will explore what makes this recipe so special and why you will love it. We will also provide you with step-by-step directions, storage tips, nutrition information, serving suggestions, and even some substitutes for ingredients you may not have on hand. So, let’s dive in!
What is La Madeleine Pasta Salad?
The Madeleine Country French Café was established in February 1983 by businessman Patrick Esquerré, who was born in the Loire Valley.
They launched their first bakery on Mockingbird Lane in Dallas, Texas, close to Southern Methodist University, with the help and encouragement of his mother, Monique Esquerré, and the renowned retail magnate Stanley Marcus of Neiman Marcus fame. The bakery quickly grew into a café.
La Madeleine have a nice list of things to eat but their Pasta Salad is the best. This famous Pasta Salad is a popular dish inspired by the French bakery and café, La Madeleine.
Known for their delicious pastries and seasonal dishes, La Madeleine has captured the hearts (and taste buds) of many.
This pasta salad recipe is no exception. It combines simple yet flavorful ingredients to create a dish that is both satisfying and refreshing. The combination of fresh basil, Parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy Caesar dressing creates a harmonious blend of flavors that will leave you wanting more.
Why You’ll Love this La Madeleine Pasta Salad Recipe?
There are several reasons why you will fall in love with this La Madeleine Pasta Salad Recipe. Firstly, it is incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a delicious pasta salad on your plate in no time.
Secondly, the flavors are sensational. The fresh basil adds a fragrant and herbaceous note, while the sun-dried tomatoes provide a sweet and tangy burst of flavor. The creamy Caesar dressing ties everything together, creating a harmonious medley of taste.
Finally, this pasta salad is highly versatile. It can be served as a main dish, a side dish, or taken to potlucks and picnics. It is a crowd-pleaser that everyone will enjoy.
The Ingredients You Will Need To Make La Madeleine Pasta Salad Recipe
Sea Salt: Sea salt is used to enhance the overall flavor of the La Madeleine Pasta Salad. It adds a fundamental salty element that brings out the natural tastes of the ingredients and balances the sweetness from other components.
Garlic: The garlic contributes a pungent and savory flavor to the pasta salad. Its presence adds depth and aromatic complexity to the dish.
Bow Tie Pasta: Bow tie pasta serves as the base of the salad, providing a substantial and satisfying element. Its unique shape and texture hold the flavors of the other ingredients well.
Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds a nutty and salty flavor to the pasta salad. It also contributes a rich and creamy texture, enhancing the overall taste.
Fresh Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice adds a bright and citrusy element to the salad. It provides acidity, balancing the richness of the Parmesan and olive oil, and adds a refreshing touch.
Fresh Basil Leaves: Fresh basil leaves contribute a fresh and herbaceous flavor to the pasta salad. They add a vibrant and aromatic quality that complements the other ingredients.
Extra-Virgin Olive Oil: Extra-virgin olive oil serves as the primary fat in the dressing, providing richness and enhancing the overall mouthfeel of the salad.
Fresh Chopped Spinach: Fresh chopped spinach adds a mild and slightly earthy taste to the pasta salad. It also contributes nutritional value and a pleasant texture.
Toasted Pine Nuts: Toasted pine nuts bring a crunchy and nutty element to the dish. They add depth and a subtle sweetness, complementing the other flavors.
Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a mild heat and pungency, balancing the sweetness and richness in the pasta salad.
Basil Pesto: Basil pesto intensifies the basil flavor in the dish while adding a creamy and aromatic component. It serves as a flavorful binder for the ingredients.
Diced Roma Tomatoes: Diced Roma tomatoes contribute a juicy and slightly sweet element to the pasta salad. They add freshness and vibrant color.
Chopped Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Sun-dried tomatoes bring a concentrated and sweet-tart flavor to the salad. They also add a chewy texture and depth to the dish.
Chopped Fresh Basil: Additional chopped fresh basil enhances the herbal notes in the salad, reinforcing the overall basil flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan cheese is used again for additional garnish, adding a finishing touch of richness and saltiness.
Creamy Caesar Dressing: Creamy Caesar dressing contributes a rich and savory element, providing a smooth and velvety texture to the pasta salad.
Salt To Taste: The additional mention of salt emphasizes the importance of adjusting the seasoning according to individual preferences, ensuring a perfectly balanced flavor in the pasta salad.
Directions
Step 1: Cook the pasta
Start by cooking the bow tie pasta according to the instructions on the package. Add a pinch of salt to the boiling water to enhance the flavor of the pasta. Cook until al dente, then drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the dressing
In a small bowl, combine the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, fresh lemon juice, basil leaves, extra-virgin olive oil, chopped spinach, toasted pine nuts, freshly ground black pepper, basil pesto, diced Roma tomatoes, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, chopped fresh basil, Parmesan cheese, and creamy Caesar dressing. Mix well until all the ingredients are combined.
Step 3: Combine the pasta and the dressing
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta and the prepared dressing. Toss gently to ensure that the pasta is evenly coated with the dressing. Taste and add salt if needed.
Step 4: Chill and serve
Cover the pasta salad with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together. Once chilled, give it a final toss to make sure the dressing is distributed evenly. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Notes
– To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan alternative.
– If you prefer a tangier flavor, you can add a splash of balsamic vinegar to the dressing.
– You can substitute the bow tie pasta with any other short pasta shape, such as penne or fusilli.
– If you don’t have fresh basil, you can use dried basil, but keep in mind that the flavor won’t be as vibrant.
– For added protein, you can toss in some grilled chicken or shrimp.
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers, store the pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Before serving, give it a quick toss to redistribute the dressing.
Nutrition Information
– Serving Size: 1 cup
– Calories: 210
– Total Fat: 12g
– Saturated Fat: 2g
– Cholesterol: 4mg
– Sodium: 220mg
– Total Carbohydrate: 20g
– Dietary Fiber: 3g
– Sugars: 4g
– Protein: 5g
Serving Suggestions
1. Serve as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish.
2. Pair with a crisp white wine for a refreshing summer meal.
3. Serve alongside a bowl of soup for a complete lunch or dinner.
4. Pack it in a picnic basket for a delightful outdoor meal.
5. Serve as a vegetarian main dish with a side of crusty bread.
What other substitute can I use in La Madeleine Pasta Salad Recipe?
1. Instead of bow tie pasta, you can use rotini, farfalle, or penne.
2. If you don’t have basil pesto, you can substitute with sun-dried tomato pesto or even homemade pesto.
3. To make it dairy-free, omit the Parmesan cheese and use a dairy-free Caesar dressing.
4. If you don’t have pine nuts, you can replace them with chopped walnuts or almonds.
5. If you’re not a fan of sun-dried tomatoes, you can use roasted red peppers or cherry tomatoes instead.
La Madeleine Pasta Salad Recipe
Equipment
- pot
- Food Processor
- Bowl
- Small Bowl (for dressing)
- Mixing bowl
Ingredients
- 1 cup Fresh Basil Leaves
- 2 tablespoons Parmesan Cheese
- 1/4 cup Fresh Chopped Spinach
- 1/2 Clove Garlic
- 1/4 cup Toasted Pine Nuts
- 1/4 cup Chopped Sun-Dried Tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon Fresh Lemon Juice
- 1/8 teaspoon Sea Salt
- 2 tablespoons Extra-Virgin Olive Oil
- 8 ounce Bow Tie Pasta
- Salt To Taste
- 1/12 teaspoon Freshly Ground Black Pepper
- 1/4 cup Chopped Fresh Basil
- 1/4 cup Diced Roma Tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons Basil Pesto
- 2 tablespoons Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese
- 2 tablespoons Creamy Caesar Dressing
Instructions
Cook Bow Tie Pasta:
- Bring a pot of water to a boil and cook 8 ounces of Bow Tie Pasta according to package instructions. Add 1/8 teaspoon of Sea Salt to the boiling water for flavor.
Prepare Basil Pesto:
- In a food processor, blend 1 cup Fresh Basil Leaves, 2 tablespoons Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese, 1/2 Clove Garlic, 1/4 cup Toasted Pine Nuts, and 2 tablespoons Extra-Virgin Olive Oil until smooth. Set aside.
Make Dressing:
- In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon Fresh Lemon Juice, 2 tablespoons Basil Pesto, 2 tablespoons Creamy Caesar Dressing, and Salt to Taste. Set aside.
Combine Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and drained pasta with the prepared dressing.
Add Vegetables and Herbs:
- Mix in 1/4 cup Fresh Chopped Spinach, 1/4 cup Diced Roma Tomatoes, 1/4 cup Chopped Sun-Dried Tomatoes, 1/4 cup Chopped Fresh Basil.
Season and Toss:
- Season the pasta salad with 1/12 teaspoon Freshly Ground Black Pepper and Salt to Taste. Toss everything together until well coated.
Finish with Cheese:
- Sprinkle 2 tablespoons Parmesan Cheese over the pasta salad.
Serve or Chill:
- Serve the La Madeleine Pasta Salad immediately, or refrigerate for a chilled option.
Enjoy:
- Delight in the flavors of this refreshing pasta salad with a perfect balance of herbs, veggies, and a zesty dressing.
Notes
- – To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan alternative.
- – If you prefer a tangier flavor, you can add a splash of balsamic vinegar to the dressing.
- – You can substitute the bow tie pasta with any other short pasta shape, such as penne or fusilli.
- – If you don’t have fresh basil, you can use dried basil, but keep in mind that the flavor won’t be as vibrant.
- – For added protein, you can toss in some grilled chicken or shrimp.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
A1: Yes, you can make this pasta salad a day in advance. Just keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to serve and give it a toss before serving to mix the flavors.
Q2: Can I use frozen basil instead of fresh?
A2: While fresh basil has a more vibrant flavor, you can use frozen basil if you don’t have fresh on hand. Just thaw it and be sure to drain any excess liquid before using.
Q3: Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Parmesan?
A3: Yes, you can use pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese instead of Parmesan for a slightly different flavor profile.
Q4: Can this salad be served warm?
A4: While this salad is traditionally served chilled, you can certainly enjoy it warm if you prefer. Just skip the chilling step and serve it right away.
Q5: How long can I keep leftovers?
A5: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to keep them in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Q6: Can I make this pasta salad gluten-free?
A6: Yes, simply use gluten-free pasta in place of the regular pasta to make it gluten-free.
Conclusion
La Madeleine Pasta Salad Recipe is a delightful twist on the classic pasta salad. With its vibrant flavors and versatile nature, it is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving a tasty meal, this recipe is a winner. So try it out, and let your taste buds experience the magic of La Madeleine Pasta Salad.
