As the sun dances through the whispering leaves, inviting families to gather outdoors, there’s one dish that seamlessly marries tradition with a refreshing twist: the Caesar Pasta Salad. Nestled in a beautiful ceramic serving bowl, this recipe is a harmonious blend of al dente pasta, crisp vegetables, and the timeless allure of Caesar dressing. Perfect for your sun-kissed picnic table adorned with a checkered cloth, a pitcher of lemonade, and vibrant blossoms, this salad promises to be a crowd-pleaser that both young and old will adore.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 6-8
Skill Level: Easy
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or farfalle)
- 1 cup Caesar dressing
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup sliced cucumber
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
- 2 cups chopped Romaine lettuce
- 1/4 cup croutons
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
- In a large salad bowl, combine the pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, Parmesan cheese, red bell pepper, and red onion.
- Pour the Caesar dressing over the salad ingredients and toss until everything is well-coated.
- Add the chopped Romaine lettuce to the bowl and gently toss again to incorporate.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Top the salad with croutons and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Helpful Tips
For a burst of protein, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or bacon bits to your salad. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, roasted chickpeas make for a great crunchy substitute. The Caesar Pasta Salad can also be customized with your favorite vegetables or different types of pasta.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If making ahead, keep the dressing separate and mix just before serving to maintain crispness.
Pairings
This Caesar Pasta Salad pairs beautifully with a chilled pitcher of lemonade or your favorite iced tea. Complement your picnic spread with fresh fruit, a variety of cheeses, and some crunchy breadsticks for a delightful outdoor dining experience.
We hope this Caesar Pasta Salad brings joy and flavor to your next gathering. Don’t forget to share your creations using #ZynahzRecipes or tag us on Instagram. We’d love to hear your feedback on our website www.zynahz.com. Subscribe to our newsletter for more delicious updates and follow us on social media for daily inspiration. Happy cooking!
