Caesar Pasta Salad Recipe

Introduction

This Caesar Pasta Salad is a fresh twist on the classic Caesar salad, combining crisp romaine lettuce, tender pasta, and a flavorful homemade dressing. Perfect as a light lunch or a side dish for dinner, it’s easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

• 2 small garlic cloves, minced (about 1 tsp)
• 1 teaspoon anchovy paste
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 1/2 teaspoons red wine vinegar
• 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt (or to taste)
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper (plus more to serve)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large romaine lettuce head, chopped (or 2 small heads)
• 1/3 cup shredded or shaved Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup croutons
• 1 pound cooked pasta (such as rotini, penne, or bowtie)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a medium bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, anchovy paste, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and red wine vinegar until well combined.
2. Step 2: Slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil while continuously whisking to create an emulsion.
3. Step 3: Add the sea salt, black pepper, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until everything is well incorporated.
4. Step 4: Taste the dressing and adjust seasoning with more salt or lemon juice if needed.
5. Step 5: Place the chopped romaine lettuce in a large salad bowl.
6. Step 6: Add the shredded or shaved Parmesan cheese, croutons, and cooked pasta to the lettuce.
7. Step 7: Pour the Caesar dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine, ensuring all ingredients are evenly coated.
8. Step 8: Serve immediately with extra black pepper if desired.

Tips & Variations

• For a vegetarian option, omit the anchovy paste and add a pinch of smoked paprika for depth of flavor.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best taste and texture.
• Add cooked chicken or shrimp to make this salad a complete meal.
• Make the dressing ahead and refrigerate for up to 2 days to save time.
• Substitute kale or mixed greens if you prefer something different from romaine.

Storage

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To keep the croutons crunchy, store them separately and add just before serving. If the salad sits, the dressing may soften the lettuce and pasta—toss again gently before eating. Reheat is not recommended as this salad is best served cold or at room temperature.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use pre-made Caesar dressing instead of making my own?

Yes, you can use store-bought Caesar dressing to save time, but making your own allows for a fresher taste and customized seasoning.

What type of pasta works best for this salad?

Short pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or bowtie hold the dressing well and provide a nice texture contrast with the lettuce and croutons.

Caesar Pasta Salad Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 81 reviews

• Author: Charlotte
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

This Caesar Pasta Salad combines classic Caesar flavors with hearty pasta, crisp romaine lettuce, and crunchy croutons, all tossed in a creamy, tangy homemade Caesar dressing. It’s a perfect side dish or light meal that comes together quickly and is packed with bold, savory taste.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Caesar Dressing Ingredients

• 2 small garlic cloves, minced (about 1 tsp)
• 1 teaspoon anchovy paste
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 1/2 teaspoons red wine vinegar
• 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, or to taste
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper, plus more to serve
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Salad Ingredients

• 1 large romaine lettuce head (or 2 small heads), chopped
• 1/3 cup shredded or shaved Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup croutons
• 1 pound cooked pasta (rotini, penne, or bowtie)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, anchovy paste, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and red wine vinegar until fully combined and aromatic.
2. Create the Emulsion: Slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil while continuously whisking the mixture to form a smooth, creamy emulsion.
3. Incorporate Seasonings and Cheese: Add sea salt, black pepper, and grated Parmesan cheese to the dressing, mixing thoroughly to blend all flavors evenly.
4. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the dressing and adjust salt or lemon juice as needed to achieve a balanced, zesty flavor.
5. Assemble the Salad: Place the chopped romaine lettuce into a large salad bowl. Add the shredded or shaved Parmesan, croutons, and cooked pasta on top.
6. Toss the Salad: Pour the prepared Caesar dressing over the salad ingredients and gently toss to ensure everything is evenly coated with the dressing.
7. Serve: Serve the Caesar Pasta Salad immediately, garnished with extra black pepper if desired for added flavor and bite.

Notes

• Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
• Cook pasta al dente and rinse with cold water to cool and stop cooking before assembling the salad.
• Add cooked chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
• For a vegetarian option, omit anchovy paste and substitute with capers or a splash of soy sauce for umami.
• Store leftovers refrigerated and consume within 1-2 days for best freshness.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes (for pasta cooking)
• Category: Salad
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Keywords: Caesar salad, pasta salad, easy salad recipe, homemade Caesar dressing, quick lunch, party salad