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caesar pasta salad

Caesar Pasta Salad Recipe

Rebecca Blumer
Try our ultimate Caesar Pasta Salad Recipe with fresh ingredients and zesty dressing. Discover a healthy, flavorful meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American, Italian-Inspired
Servings 6
Calories 420 kcal

Ingredients
 

  • 12 oz rotini pasta (or fusilli/penne)
  • 2 –3 cups romaine lettuce chopped
  • 1 cup Caesar dressing (homemade or store-bought)
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese grated
  • 1 cup croutons (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 –2 cups grilled chicken chopped (optional)
  • 1 –2 tbsp olive oil (for cooking or drizzling)
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp minced garlic (or garlic powder, optional)
  • Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Step 1: Cook the Pasta:

  • Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
  • Cook pasta until al dente (8–10 minutes).
  • Drain, rinse with cold water, and toss with olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken (If Using):

  • Season chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
  • Grill, pan-sear, or bake at 375°F (190°C) until fully cooked (165°F).
  • Let cool, then chop or shred.

Step 3: Prepare the Lettuce & Croutons:

  • Wash and dry romaine lettuce, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
  • If using homemade croutons, bake bread cubes with olive oil at 350°F (177°C) for 10–15 minutes.

Step 4: Make the Dressing:

  • Use store-bought Caesar dressing or make a lighter version with Greek yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, and Parmesan.
  • Whisk and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 5: Assemble the Salad:

  • In a large bowl, combine pasta, lettuce, chicken, and dressing.
  • Toss to coat, then mix in Parmesan cheese.
  • Add croutons just before serving for crunch.
  • Adjust salt, pepper, and dressing to taste.

Notes:

  • For extra tang, squeeze fresh lemon juice before serving.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days (keep croutons separate).
  • Customize with extra toppings like cherry tomatoes or bacon bits.

Video

Notes

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
  • Calories: 420 kcal
  • Total Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 40mg
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 2g
  • Protein: 20g
 
Disclaimer: The nutrition information provided is estimated based on automated calculations and should be viewed as an approximation. These values are offered as a helpful reference and may vary depending on specific ingredients and brands used. For the most accurate results, please consult your own nutritional data or preferred brand values.

Nutrition

Calories: 420kcal
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