Description
Caesar Pasta Salad is a delightful fusion of the classic Caesar salad and hearty pasta, combining creamy dressing, tender pasta, crisp romaine lettuce, savory Parmesan cheese, and crunchy croutons. This versatile dish can be enjoyed as a main course or a side, making it a popular choice for gatherings and family meals.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Salad:
- 12 oz rotini, fusilli, penne, or farfalle pasta
- 2 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- ½ cup shaved or grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup croutons
- 1 cup grilled chicken (optional)
- ½ cup halved cherry tomatoes (optional)
For the Caesar Dressing:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves minced garlic
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon anchovy paste (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, following package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to halt cooking. Toss with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking and set aside.
- Prepare the Caesar Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, grated Parmesan, olive oil, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. If using anchovy paste, incorporate it now. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chopped romaine lettuce, and half of the shaved Parmesan. Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss gently to ensure even coating. If adding protein like grilled chicken, include it at this stage.
- Add Final Touches: Top the salad with croutons and the remaining Parmesan cheese. For added freshness, consider incorporating cherry tomatoes or crispy bacon bits. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to enhance flavors.
Notes
- Preventing Sogginess: To maintain optimal texture, mix the dressing with the pasta first, then add the lettuce just before serving to keep it crisp.
- Protein Variations: Enhance the salad by adding grilled shrimp, bacon, or roasted chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
- Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For best results, keep the dressing separate and add just before serving to maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 min
- Cook Time: 15 min
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 490
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 410mg
- Fat: 31g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 25g
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 60mg