This Easy Creamy Caesar Pasta Salad is the perfect mix of pasta, crisp veggies, and a creamy Caesar dressing that’s hard to resist. It’s quick to make and full of flavor!
What I love most is how it can be a side dish or a main course. I often add some grilled chicken when I’m extra hungry. It’s a win-win! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I used farfalle, which looks fun and holds the dressing well. You can easily swap it for other pasta types like rotini or penne if you have those on hand.
Lettuce: Romaine is crisp and gives a nice crunch. If you want a different texture, spinach or kale works well too!
Grilled Chicken: I love using grilled chicken for flavor. If you’re in a hurry, rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. For a vegetarian option, consider chickpeas or grilled tofu!
Mayonnaise: This gives the salad its creamy base. If you’re looking for a lighter version, plain Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute. It’ll also boost the protein!
Anchovies: They add a unique flavor to the dressing, but they’re totally optional. If you prefer no fish, just skip them! You can add a little more salt for flavor.
How Do I Make Sure My Pasta is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking pasta just right is essential to avoid mushiness. Here’s my go-to method:
- Start with a large pot of salted water; this helps flavor the pasta.
- Follow the package instructions for cooking time. Aim for al dente, which means it will be firm to the bite.
- Once done, drain the pasta and quickly rinse it under cold water. This stops the cooking process and keeps it from sticking.
This method ensures a lovely texture in your pasta salad, making every bite enjoyable!
Easy Creamy Caesar Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 8 oz farfalle (bowtie) pasta
- 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 2 grilled chicken breasts, sliced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the Dressing:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 2 tsp Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 anchovy fillets, minced (optional)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Garnish (Optional):
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tbsp butter (for toasting breadcrumbs)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Creamy Caesar Pasta Salad takes about 20 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes cooking the pasta and making the dressing, and another 5-10 minutes assembling everything. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or a side dish for dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it’s boiling, add the farfalle pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This should take about 8-10 minutes. When done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. Set it aside!
2. Toast the Breadcrumbs:
In a small skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the panko breadcrumbs to the skillet and toast them, stirring frequently, until they’re golden brown. This should take about 3-5 minutes. Once golden, remove them from the heat and set aside for garnish.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and minced anchovy fillets (if you’re using them). Slowly whisk in the olive oil until the mixture is smooth. Don’t forget to season with salt and black pepper to taste.
4. Combine Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chopped romaine lettuce, and sliced grilled chicken. Pour the creamy Caesar dressing over the top and gently toss everything together until evenly coated.
5. Add Parmesan:
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the salad and give it a light toss to distribute the cheese throughout the salad.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish the pasta salad into bowls and top with the toasted panko breadcrumbs for a delightful crunch. Add extra black pepper if desired. This creamy Caesar pasta salad is fantastic served chilled or at room temperature!
Enjoy your delicious creation!
FAQs About Easy Creamy Caesar Pasta Salad
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! You can substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta. Just ensure that you follow the package instructions for cooking times, as gluten-free pasta may vary.
How Long Does the Pasta Salad Last in the Fridge?
This pasta salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. However, for the best quality, try to consume it within 2 days as the lettuce may wilt over time.
Can I Make This Pasta Salad Vegan?
Yes, you can make this salad vegan by swapping the mayonnaise with a dairy-free alternative, using tofu or chickpeas instead of chicken, and omitting the anchovies. Nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor!
What Should I Serve with This Salad?
This salad pairs well with roasted vegetables or some crusty bread as a side. For a complete meal, consider adding grilled fish or shrimp for extra protein.
