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Caesar Pasta Salad Recipe

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4.1 from 8 reviews

A quick and flavorful Caesar Pasta Salad combining classic Caesar dressing with pasta, fresh Romaine lettuce, and your choice of chicken for a satisfying and easy-to-make meal perfect for gatherings or a light lunch.

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 10 servings

Ingredients

Dressing

  • 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
  • 2 Tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 3/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 teaspoons minced garlic
  • 1 teaspoon anchovy paste
  • 1/3 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Salad

  • 8 oz. uncooked pasta, such as rotini or penne
  • 2 hearts of Romaine lettuce
  • Shredded rotisserie chicken or chopped cooked chicken breasts (about 1 to 1.5 cups)
  • Croutons (optional, for garnish)
  • Additional Parmesan cheese, for serving

Instructions

  1. Make the dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, fresh lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, mayonnaise, minced garlic, and anchovy paste until smooth and well combined. Stir in the finely grated Parmesan cheese and 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Set the dressing aside to allow the flavors to meld while preparing the salad.
  2. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the uncooked pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, approximately 10 minutes. Drain the pasta thoroughly and transfer it to a large serving bowl.
  3. Prepare the Romaine: Rinse the Romaine hearts under cold water, pat dry, and cut them into roughly 1-inch pieces. Add the chopped Romaine to the bowl with the cooked pasta.
  4. Add protein: Incorporate the shredded rotisserie chicken or chopped cooked chicken breasts into the pasta and Romaine mixture, distributing evenly.
  5. Toss with dressing: Pour the prepared Caesar dressing over the pasta, lettuce, and chicken mixture. Toss gently but thoroughly until everything is well coated with the dressing.
  6. Garnish and serve: If desired, sprinkle croutons over the salad for added crunch and garnish with extra grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Notes

  • For best flavor, allow the dressing to sit for at least 10 minutes before tossing with the salad.
  • Use rotisserie chicken for convenience or substitute with grilled or baked chicken breasts.
  • Croutons are optional but add a pleasant crunch to the salad.
  • This salad can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours; toss again before serving if juices settle.
  • Feel free to add cherry tomatoes or cucumbers for additional freshness.
  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Find it online: https://yourdailycook.com/caesar-pasta-salad-recipe/