Description
A classic Caesar pasta salad with a homemade dressing, fresh romaine, Parmesan, and croutons. Grilled chicken adds protein for a complete meal.
Ingredients
- Caesar Dressing:
- 2 small garlic cloves, minced (1 tsp)
- 1 tsp anchovy paste
- 2 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tsp fresh lemon juice
- 1½ tsp vinegar
- ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
- ½ tsp sea salt (or to taste)
- ⅛ tsp black pepper (plus more to serve)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Pasta Salad:
- 1 large head romaine lettuce (or 2 small heads), chopped
- ⅓ cup shredded or shaved Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup croutons
- 1 lb cooked pasta (e.g. rotini, penne, or bowtie)
- Optional Add-In:
- Grilled chicken breast slices for added protein
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together garlic, anchovy paste, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and vinegar. Slowly drizzle in olive oil while continuously whisking to emulsify. Add salt, pepper, and grated Parmesan. Stir well. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or lemon juice if needed.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine cooked and cooled pasta with chopped romaine. Add shaved Parmesan and croutons. Pour Caesar dressing over the salad and toss to combine. Top with freshly cracked black pepper and optional grilled chicken slices if desired.
- Serve: Serve immediately, or chill for 15 minutes for enhanced flavor.
Notes
- Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon for a full meal.
- Use store-bought Caesar dressing to save time.
- Make it gluten-free by using GF pasta and croutons.
- Perfect for BBQs, potlucks, or quick weeknight dinners.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: undefined
- Cuisine: American, Italian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
