Caesar Pasta Salad Recipe (Easy & Delicious)

If you’re looking for a creamy, satisfying, and crowd-pleasing dish, this Caesar Pasta Salad is the perfect choice. Combining fresh romaine lettuce, al dente pasta, crunchy croutons, and Parmesan cheese tossed in a creamy Caesar dressing, it’s a recipe that works for both quick lunches and party sides.

This recipe is easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and family-approved.

⭐ Why You’ll Love This Caesar Pasta Salad

• Quick and easy to prepare in under 20 minutes.

• Great for potlucks, picnics, or a healthy weeknight dinner.

• Can be customized with chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for extra protein.

• Creamy, crunchy, and satisfying without being heavy.

🥘 Ingredients

• 8 oz (about 3 cups) rotini pasta (or penne/fusilli)

• 1 large head romaine lettuce, chopped

• 1 cup croutons (store-bought or homemade)

• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for topping)

• ½ cup Caesar dressing (homemade or store-bought, sugar-free if preferred)

• 1 tsp black pepper

• Optional: grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for added protein

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Cook the pasta – Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking.

2. Prep the lettuce – Wash, dry, and chop the romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces.

3. Combine ingredients – In a large mixing bowl, add pasta, lettuce, croutons, and Parmesan cheese.

4. Add dressing – Pour Caesar dressing over the salad and toss gently until everything is coated.

5. Serve – Top with extra Parmesan, black pepper, and optional grilled chicken for a complete meal.

🌱 Variations

• High-protein: Add grilled chicken breast, shrimp, or salmon.

• Vegetarian: Use chickpeas or roasted tofu for plant-based protein.

• Low-carb: Swap pasta with zucchini noodles or cauliflower florets.

• Homemade Croutons: Toast cubed bread with olive oil, garlic powder, and herbs.

🧊 Storage Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

• Keep croutons separate to maintain crunch.

• Add dressing just before serving to avoid soggy lettuce.

🍴 Serving Ideas

• Serve as a main course with grilled chicken or shrimp.

• Pair with soup or sandwiches for a balanced lunch.

• Great side dish for BBQs, holidays, and family gatherings.

📌 Final Thoughts

This Caesar Pasta Salad recipe is creamy, crunchy, and refreshing — a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you serve it as a side dish or a full meal, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd favorite.