Description

This Caesar Pasta Salad combines al dente rotini pasta with classic Caesar dressing, Parmesan cheese, and fresh vegetables for a refreshing and satisfying dish. Perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner, this salad can be easily enhanced with the addition of grilled chicken for extra protein. The blend of crunchy romaine, juicy cherry tomatoes, and crispy croutons brings texture and freshness to every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta and Dressing

12 oz rotini pasta
1 cup Caesar dressing (store-bought or homemade)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
1/2 tsp garlic powder

Vegetables and Toppings

2 cups chopped romaine lettuce
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup croutons

Optional

1/2 cup cooked chopped grilled chicken

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Instructions

Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to cool completely and stop the cooking process.
Mix Dressing and Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with Caesar dressing, grated Parmesan cheese, freshly cracked black pepper, and garlic powder. Toss thoroughly to evenly coat all the pasta pieces with the dressing and seasoning.
Add Fresh Vegetables: Gently fold in the chopped romaine lettuce, halved cherry tomatoes, and croutons to the pasta mixture, ensuring they are evenly distributed without bruising the salad ingredients.
Optional Protein Addition: If desired, add the cooked chopped grilled chicken to the salad for a more filling and hearty dish. Mix gently to combine.
Chill and Serve: Cover the salad and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together and the salad to become refreshing.

Notes

Use store-bought or homemade Caesar dressing based on preference.
Chilling the salad for longer than 30 minutes enhances flavor integration.
Grilled chicken adds protein and makes this salad a great main course.
For extra crunch, add croutons just before serving to prevent sogginess.
Rinse pasta under cold water thoroughly to cool it and prevent overcooking.