Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something delicious, healthy, and easy? Then look no further! This Caesar Pasta Salad is the perfect solution for a quick weeknight meal or a delightful contribution to your next potluck. It's bursting with fresh flavors, satisfying textures, and requires minimal cooking time, making it an ideal recipe for busy individuals or those new to homemade cooking. This easy recipe transforms simple ingredients into a truly delicious dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound pasta (rotini, farfalle, or penne work well)
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cooked chicken or shrimp (optional)
- ½ cup croutons
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool slightly.
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Prepare the Caesar Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Adding a pinch of sugar can balance the acidity of the lemon juice.
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Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, and optional cooked chicken or shrimp to the bowl with the Caesar dressing. Gently toss to coat everything evenly.
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Add Croutons and Garnish: Stir in the croutons. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Tips for the Best Caesar Pasta Salad:
- Pasta Choice: Use a pasta shape that holds the dressing well. Rotini, farfalle, and penne are excellent choices.
- Homemade Croutons: For an extra special touch, make your own croutons by toasting cubed bread in the oven with olive oil and herbs.
- Add-ins: Feel free to get creative with your add-ins! Chopped cucumbers, bell peppers, or black olives would all be delicious additions. Consider adding some shredded romaine lettuce for a fresher take on the classic Caesar salad.
- Make it Ahead: This pasta salad is even better the next day, allowing the flavors to meld. Make it ahead of time for a stress-free meal or potluck contribution.
Variations:
- Vegetarian Caesar Pasta Salad: Omit the chicken or shrimp for a vegetarian-friendly option.
- Spicy Caesar Pasta Salad: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a little kick.
- Creamy Caesar Pasta Salad: For an even creamier dressing, use a combination of mayonnaise and sour cream.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate, without chicken/shrimp):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 8-10g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 40-45g
This Caesar Pasta Salad is a simple yet satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion. It's a quick dinner idea that delivers big on flavor, making it a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meals. Enjoy!