Description
This easy Caesar pasta salad combines tender pasta, crisp romaine lettuce, juicy cherry tomatoes, crunchy croutons, and a creamy homemade dressing for a dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether served as a main meal or a side dish, it’s a crowd-pleaser with endless customization options, including chicken, shrimp
Ingredients
Scale
For the Salad:
- 8 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or bowtie)
- 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup croutons (store-bought or homemade)
For the Dressing:
- ½ cup Greek yogurt
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp minced garlic
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp anchovy paste (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water. Add pasta and cook until al dente (8-10 minutes). Drain and rinse under cold water.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and anchovy paste (if using). Stir in grated Parmesan cheese.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, chopped romaine, and cherry tomatoes. Pour in half the dressing and toss gently.
- Add the Finishing Touches: Sprinkle in Parmesan and croutons, toss again, and serve with remaining dressing on the side.
Notes
- For a protein-packed meal, add grilled chicken, shrimp.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, keeping the dressing separate.
- For a healthier version, use whole grain or gluten-free pasta.
- To make ahead, prep all ingredients separately and combine before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Lunch
- Method: Tossing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 34 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 12 g
- Cholesterol: 25 mg
Keywords: Caesar pasta salad, creamy pasta salad, homemade Caesar dressing, chicken Caesar pasta, healthy pasta salads, summer salad, potluck salad, BBQ side dish, easy pasta salad, gluten-free Caesar pasta