Caesar Pasta Salad
This Creamy Caesar Pasta Salad combines crisp romaine, savory bacon, and al dente pasta—a perfect summer dish.
Servings 6
Ingredients
- 12 oz spiral pasta
- 10 C romaine lettuce chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 6 slices bacon cooked and crumbled
- ¾ cup Caesar dressing adjust to taste
- ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese crisps crushed slightly
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking. Drizzle with a little olive oil to keep it from sticking.
- Prep the Salad Base: In a large bowl, combine chopped romaine, cherry tomatoes, and crumbled bacon.
- Assemble the Salad: Add the cooled pasta to the bowl. Drizzle Caesar dressing over the top and gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Add Cheese & Crunch: Sprinkle in shredded Parmesan and crushed Parmesan crisps. Toss lightly again.
- Season & Serve: Add salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately or chill for 20–30 minutes before serving.
- Optional Add-Ons: Grilled chicken, tenders or rotisserie chicken makes a great protein boost if you'd like to turn it into a heartier meal.
Notes
How to Store Caesar Pasta Salad:
Keep in mind that once the dressing is applied, the romaine lettuce will gradually lose its crispness. As a result, the salad may become a bit soggy over time. If you're planning to make this Caesar pasta salad ahead of time, it's best to store the pasta, chopped vegetables, parmesan cheese, cheese crisps, and dressing separately. Then, simply toss everything together right before serving. This not only keeps the lettuce crisp and fresh but also preserves the overall texture of the salad.
Keep in mind that once the dressing is applied, the romaine lettuce will gradually lose its crispness. As a result, the salad may become a bit soggy over time. If you're planning to make this Caesar pasta salad ahead of time, it's best to store the pasta, chopped vegetables, parmesan cheese, cheese crisps, and dressing separately. Then, simply toss everything together right before serving. This not only keeps the lettuce crisp and fresh but also preserves the overall texture of the salad.