Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Caesar Pasta Salad offers the beloved flavors of Caesar dressing with the added heartiness of pasta, making it more filling and versatile. It’s quick to make, easy to customize, and can be served chilled or at room temperature, making it ideal for potlucks, picnics, or meal prep.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Pasta (rotini, penne, or bowtie)
Romaine lettuce (chopped)
Parmesan cheese (grated)
Caesar dressing (store-bought or homemade)
Cherry tomatoes (halved, optional)
Croutons (optional, omit for gluten-free)
Fresh black pepper
Lemon juice (optional, for extra brightness)

Directions

Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool.
In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, chopped romaine lettuce, and cherry tomatoes if using.
Add Caesar dressing and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the salad and toss lightly again.
Add croutons just before serving to keep them crunchy.
Season with fresh black pepper and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.
Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes

Variations

Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
Use kale or spinach instead of romaine for a different leafy green.
Swap Caesar dressing for a lighter yogurt-based version for a healthier twist.
Add bacon bits or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For best texture, keep croutons separate and add just before serving. This salad is best enjoyed cold and is not suitable for reheating.

FAQs

Can I make Caesar dressing from scratch?

Yes, a simple homemade Caesar dressing uses mayonnaise, anchovy paste, garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and Parmesan cheese.

What pasta works best for this salad?

Short pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or bowtie hold dressing well.

How do I keep the lettuce from wilting?

Add lettuce just before serving or toss lightly and serve immediately.

Can I make this salad gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and omit croutons or use gluten-free croutons.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes, but keep dressing and croutons separate until ready to serve.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, cucumbers, bell peppers, or red onions complement well.

How long does the salad last in the fridge?

Up to 2 days for best freshness.

Can I use store-bought Caesar dressing?

Yes, store-bought dressings work well for convenience.

Can I serve this salad warm?

It’s typically served cold or at room temperature, but can be slightly warmed if preferred.

How do I make the salad more filling?

Add grilled protein like chicken, shrimp, or tofu.

Conclusion

Caesar Pasta Salad is a tasty, easy-to-make dish that combines the crisp flavors of Caesar salad with hearty pasta for a versatile meal or side. Its creamy dressing, fresh greens, and simple ingredients make it a crowd-pleaser perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re packing lunch or serving guests, this salad is sure to satisfy.